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Over half of Scotland's population regularly enjoys informal recreation such as walking and cycling. East Ayrshire provides fantastic opportunities with its spectacular and varied landscape - from the  river valleys with wooded gorges to the smooth glacially carved valleys of the Southern Uplands.

East Ayrshire is renowned for its rich social heritage. It features dramatic and powerful scenery such as Loudoun Hill and the hills of Loch Doon.  It is an excellent place for exploring historic gardens, woodlands, archaeology, castles, churches and industries such as mining and mills.

Our comprehensive core paths network has been developed for walking, cycling and horse riding, giving easy access to these beautiful parts.

River Ayr Way

East Ayrshire’s most unique route and Scotland’s first source to a sea path network which covers a distance of 66km and is walked annually by over 140,000 people. Visit the River Ayr Way website using the links on this page for more information.

The Doon Valley

Joins the communities of Dalmellington, Patna and Rankinston as well as linking to sites such as Loch Doon, the Galloway Forest, Ness Glen and the beautiful Craigengillan Estate. The Doon Valley also offers excellent routes for riders including Patna Bridle Route. An information pack is available.

The Lugar Water Trail

Links the communities of Ochiltree, Drongan and Cumnock to the River Ayr Way as well as providing routes through the beautiful Auchinleck Estate.

The Coalfield Cycle Route 

66km on and off road route from Dalmellington to Muirkirk which will be signed in 2012 as part of the Core Path Plan.

Kilmarnock Town Trail

These paths take you through the historical heart of Kilmarnock, taking in some of the town’s most important heritage sites. A book on the Kilmarnock Town Trail is available at Dean Castle Country Park or from Kev's Cards in Kilmarnock Town Centre.

Kilmaurs Town Trail 

This route leads you through the quaint village of Kilmaurs visiting sites of historical significance.

Stewarton Path Network 

A new 7km circular route, developed around Stewarton town centre following the Annick Water and linking in the beautiful Lainshaw Woods on the western edge of the town.

Irvine Valley Trail

Links the towns and villages of the Irvine Valley as well as providing links to heritage sites such as Loudoun Hill (a volcanic plug), Loudoun Castle and Barr Castle. An information pack is available through local libraries.

Details on all of these routes can be found in East Ayrshire's Core Path Plan or by visiting the River Ayr Way website. The Ayrshire Paths website details many of the walks in Ayrshire as well as giving an insight into the history of the area and other activities to undertake whilst in the area.

 

Contact Information

 

Cultural and Countryside Services (East Ayrshire Leisure Trust)
The Palace Theatre
9 Green Street
Kilmarnock
East Ayrshire
KA1 3BN
Telephone: 01563 554902