Ayrshire Walking & Wheeling Festival
20th-29th September 2024

This year marks the third annual Ayrshire Walking Festival. It has been arranged by the Trinity Active Travel Hub to promote walking for health and as a greener way to travel. Gillian’s Walks is pleased to be hosting four events as part of this year’s programme! 

Events by Gillian's Walks

Nordic Walking Taster Sessions

Nordic Walking is a low-impact exercise that enhances the benefits of traditional walking by incorporating specially designed poles. It engages the entire body, improving balance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Aimed at complete beginners, this 45 minute session will give you an introduction to the poles and the basic technique.

Friday 20th or Friday 27th Sept 9.30am-10.15am | Dean Castle Country Park Kilmarnock | Free event | Option to join in with group Nordic walk immediately afterwards – charges apply

Start at ART!

A unique, never to be repeated experience! The day starts with a talk at the Alloway Railway Tunnel (ART) about the groundbreaking mural project. You’ll then enjoy a guided circular walk between Alloway and Ayr taking in some of the iconic Burns’ sites, the Story Stroll in Rozelle and the Blue Bonnet Trail. Once in Ayr you’ll take part in a mural painting workshop with mural Artist Chris Rutterford, who is the lead project artist for the Alloway Tunnel! You’ll finish the day with a guided walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path back to Alloway.

Saturday 21st Sept 10am – 5pm | Free event | total walk distance 8 miles

Introduction to Digital Navigation​

When walking in lowland countryside and woodland, using your mobile phone as a navigation aid can give you the confidence needed to explore new places. This interactive and educational outdoor learning course has been carefully designed to provide you with the knowledge and confidence needed to do just that. Learn how to locate yourself on the map, create a trace of your route, identify alternatives and escape routes, tips for battery saving, how to use this technology without a signal and much more!

Thursday 26th Sept 10am-1pm | Eglinton Country Park Kilwinning | Tickets £9 – kindly subsidised by The Outdoor Partnership Ayrshire

Festival Information & Full Programme

To view the full programme for the 2024 Ayrshire Walking and Wheeling Festival, with over 60 walks and events on offer, visit the Trinity Active Travel Hub website.