Tourism

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE DOON VALLEY

The Doon Valley is one of the main routes from the towns and farmlands of Ayrshire into the Southern Uplands, so travellers along the A713 Tourist Route are assured of a beautiful journey.

Visit Loch Doon, the largest inland loch in Southern Scotland, for spectacular scenery.

Loch Doon, a dark sheet of water six miles long, lies between the high moor and rugged hills five miles south of Dalmellington. On the west shore stand the remains of Loch Doon or Balloch Castle. When the water level is low enough the remains of the Castle Island can be seen. About two miles further north is Donald's Isle, a moraine of granite rocks where there are tow structures known as the monks' graves or monks' cells. Polished stones, beads and pottery fragments have been found here.

During the Second World War various aircraft crashed in this area; bombers, fighters - allied and German, came down here. One in Loch Doon, one at Lochhead, and another at Loch Enoch.

There are cycle routes in the area, including a cycle link to the Southern Upland Way. Bike hire is available at the lochside, where you can also visit the ruined Loch Doon Castle. Select for more information

At Dalmellington, historic weavers' cottages accommodate the Cathcartson Visitor Centre which contains exhibitions of local history and modern arts and crafts. These exhibitions change regularly. Select for Museums and Arts

Bargain hunters with an interest in reading will enjoy Dame Helen's Book and Art Centre in Dalmellington, which accommodates several second-hand bookshops.

Visit Dunaskin Heritage Centre at Waterside by Dalmellington, an industrial history site of major importance, and the Scottish Industrial Railway Museum. Select for Museums and Arts