The Irvine Valley Regeneration Partnership
Regeneration Projects - THE PRESENT - Stepping Forward - THE FUTURE
Discovering the Irvine Valley – Stepping Forward
IVRP has just published the third edition of their brochure “Discovering the Irvine Valley – Stepping Forward”. The Brochure is distributed within the Central Belt area and tells you where to stay, what to do and what to see. It also includes a map and details of the Irvine Valley Paths Network. Click onto www.ayrshirepaths.org.uk to download a copy of the area you want to walk.
For a copy of our brochure, email us or send for a copy at the Town House.
The Irvine Valley Paths Network
Opened in May 2002 by Gwyneth Guthrie,(Mrs Mack of Take the High Road), the Irvine Valley Paths Network connects 35 miles of rights of way, disused railway lines and country roads along the Irvine Valley Towns of Hurlford, Galston, Newmilns & Darvel. The Paths Network was funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, The Scottish Executive, East Ayrshire Council, Score Environment and Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire. The Paths Network navigates around many of the historic buildings and sites in the Irvine Valley.
The Irvine Valley Walking Festival
A first for the Irvine Valley and a first for Ayrshire, the 2003 Irvine Valley Walking Festival attracted 400 people when it was first held in May 2003. A series of walks introduced newcomers and locals to the area. Each walk was led by a Guide who passed on his local knowledge of the history and natural environment of the area to the walkers. Other events included a Cycle Run, a Fishing Competition, a Craft Taster Event, a Bonfire and Battle Display by Fire & Sword Living History Group.
Several years after initial discussions regarding the siting of a substantial monument to recognise the historical significance of the area during the Scottish Wars of Independence, an impressive sculpture entitled ‘Spirit of Scotland’ has been erected. This unique sculpture, created by local artist Richard Price, stands on the Wallace Path at Loudounhill, part of the 35 miles of path network around the Irvine Valley area.
For more information on the 'Spirit of Scotland' Sculpture, please click here.
For more information on Loudoun Hill, please click here.
Friendship Link with Newtownards in Northern Ireland
Newtownards in Northern Ireland is the birthplace of Paddy Mayne, co-founder of the SAS. During the 2nd World War, the SAS lived and trained in the Irvine Valley. As part of the Millennium Celebrations, Darvel Improvement Group (DIG) and representatives of the SAS constructed a Cairn in Darvel to commemorate Paddy and the SAS. Such was the enthusiasm on both sides to formalise the existing link that the Partnership organised a Friendship Charter between Ards Borough Council and the Irvine Valley. The Charter was signed by Mayor Magill of Newtownards and Graham Wellby, Chair of the Partnership, as part of the 2003 Walking Festival.
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