Ballantrae’s Smugglers Trail

Guided Smugglers Walk “Knockdolian” - part of the 2026 Ballantrae Smugglers Festival
Thursday 27th August 2026

Ballantrae’s smuggling story is fascinating but complicated and veiled in mystery and intrigue. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, when duties in Scotland were high, there was a constant trade in smuggled goods being brought into Ballantrae from the Isle of Man or Ireland. These places acted as storehouses of contraband goods that had paid very low duties so that they were much cheaper than the same items available in Scotland. Tobacco, brandy, rum, gin, claret and salt were all landed on the beach at Ballantrae.

Gillian’s Walks is delighted to play a part in this year’s Ballantrae Smugglers Festival, giving you the opportunity to experience a guided hike along one of Ballantrae’s official Smugglers Trails: Knockdolian Hill

What to Expect

Event date: Thursday 27th August 2026

Starts 10.15am Craigiemains Garden Centre, Ballantrae

We will be treated to some pre-walk refreshments during which local historian Andy McAlpine will set the scene for us with a short talk and film about Ballantrae’s smuggling history.

We will then head off to climb the distinctive Knockdolian Hill – a local landmark which can be seen for miles around – on a walk that blends history, scenery, and adventure. If conditions allow, we will enjoy panoramic views stretching from Arran to Northern Ireland. This is a walk that captures the spirit of Ayrshire’s coast and countryside in one memorable outing.

Walk distance 7 miles

Graded moderate due to steep ascents and pathless descent through fields. Total ascent/descent is 827 ft / 252 m. One gate to climb. Mixture of roadside pavements, wooded riverside trails, surfaced single track roads, grassy hill path, pathless fields, sand and shingle beach.Possibility of livestock.

Finishes approx 4pm Craigiemains Garden Centre, Ballantrae

Dogs are not permitted on this guided walk.