*From midnight on Sunday 28th April, until 12 noon on Wed 1st May, our ticketing system will be offline and Box Office phone lines will be closed meaning that you will not be able to purchase tickets for shows. This is to allow us to implement an exciting new ticketing system. Fitness classes and activities will still be bookable online during this time.
Core Paths
*The Lugar Water Trail remains closed between the Barony A Frame and Ochiltree. This is due to damage caused by the recent high water levels which has resulted in sections of the path being unpassable.
The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 places a number of duties on local authorities, one of which is to produce a Core Path Plan. This duty ensures that local authorities provide a system of paths that will give the public reasonable access through and across the surrounding landscape.
East Ayrshire’s Core Path Plan was adopted on 5 November 2008 - it is currently subject to review and further updates and details relating to the planned consultation exercise will be available in due course.
Although there is no specific standard for core paths, here in East Ayrshire, we view them as strategic routes that connect a network of destinations, settlements, towns and communities. Core paths are the links that the people of East Ayrshire will regularly use for journeys such as travelling to work, for visiting family and friends, or for visiting neighbouring towns and communities. They will also be used for recreational activities.
Throughout Scotland core paths will generally be designed as shared use and suitable for all walkers, cyclists and horse riders; however not all of them will be suitable for every ability which can be due to location or proximity to livestock. There will be some on water to provide recreational opportunities to kayakers and canoeists.
In essence, a core path is chosen not for how many people are able to use it or for its physical quality, but instead for the value of its location and route destination. They must be of significant value to visitors, local communities and land owners.
You can view the maps of the current Core Path Plan using the maps link below. To find the core path plan routes, click on the + icon next to the Leisure link and then click core path routes.
If you would like to view a hard copy of the Core Path Plan, please email us
Click the links below to view more information on individual Core Paths within East Ayrshire. Details on local path networks will be available soon.
Kilmaurs to NCR73
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Distance: 1 mile
Time: 15 mins
Grade: Moderate
Start: Access road to Kirkland Farm (A735), just outside Kilmaurs
Finish: National Cycle Network Route 73, just south of South Woodhill Farm
Route Description: CP1 connects on to the Kilmarnock Road (A735). It follows the farm track passed Kirkland Farm, The Old Manse and North Woodhill Farm. It runs parallel to a railway line and connects to the minor road at South Woodhill Farm. At this point it links to National Cycle Network Route 73 which provides connections to the Kilmarnock Cycle Network and to the National Cycle Network to North and South Ayrshire.This route is best for walkers as there are kissing gates and long sections along field margins that are unsurfaced.
Further Info: By linking into the wider network, this route forms a circular route between Kilmaurs and Knockentiber
Auchinleck to the River Ayr Way
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Distance: 4.6m (7.4km)
Time: 1hr 30mins moderate walk
Grade: Easy/Moderate
Start: West end of Auchinleck
Finish: High Clews Farm
Description: Starts at the west end of Auchinleck and travels along a roadside pavement on the Barony Road until it reaches the Barony A-Frame. It then is on road until Auchinleck Estate. It then follows the Estate Road west then north the northwest through the Home Farm. It then skirts around the western edge of Auchinleck House parklands until it reaches the bridge over the Lugar Water. It then heads east and north along estate tracks until it reaches High Clews Farm where it connects to B7.
Suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding, but account should be taken of traffic on the first section and farm vehicles on the rest.
Further Info: Part of this route goes through the designed landscape of Auchinleck Estate, once the seat of the Boswell Family. The route also runs along the ‘Via Sacre’ the burial route from Auchinleck Estate to the Boswell Mausoleum, connecting to a number of key heritage sites including the Barony Museum, the Barony A Frame, Auchinleck House and the River Ayr Way, and possible connection to Dumfries House.
Auchinleck to Sorn
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Distance: 4.1m (6.6km)
Time: 1hrs 20mins moderate walk
Grade: Easy
Start: Cameron Drive, Auchinleck
Finish: Old Avenue, Sorn
Description: This route goes through a small community woodland site at Berryhill and connects to the dismantled railway line across the site. It continues along this line until it reaches Darconnar Reservoir, where it picks up forest tracks leading to the minor road south of Sorn at Shiel Farm. It then heads west and enters Sorn along the Old Avenue. Suitable for walking, cycling & horse riding.
Further Info: Connects to the minor forest road to south of Sorn where account should be taken of motorised traffic
Muirkirk to Sanquhar
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Distance: 14.3m (23km)
Time: 3hrs 30mins
Grade: Moderate
Start: Walkers Car Park, Muirkirk
Finish: Sanquhar
Description: The route follows the River Ayr Way until it reaches Macadam’s Cairn. At this point it follows the track south away from the river. This track continues through the hills west of Cairn Table and enters into the forestry plantation to the south of Muirkirk and onto the minor road into Sanquhar.
Suitable for walking and off road cycling
Further Info: This route is an important historical route for the area as it follows an old drovers’ road. This route also goes passed MacAdams Cairn and links into the River Ayr Way. It goes through a Special Protected Area designated for the diversity of birds in the area. . It is based on a sensitive moorland habitat. A dedicated route through this area ensures that people have access to some of East Ayrshire’s most interesting social heritage and landscape, whilst minimising disturbance to this European significant area
Lord Bute's Walk
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Distance: 1.5m (2.4km)
Time: 30 mins moderate walk
Grade: Easy/Moderate
Start: B7083 Cumnock to Auchinleck Road at Vision Leisure Centre
Finish: B7083 Auchinleck
Description: The route follows the north bank of the Lugar Water. It then runs parallel to the A76 before heading north east through woodland to Auchinleck where it rejoins the B7083. The path is surfaced with whinstone and is suitable for multi use.
Specifically intended to provide a cycling and walking route between Cumnock and Auchinleck. This is a gravel track which has been constructed for all abilities, however due to the topography of the land, there are a couple of steep inclines.
Further Info: Goes through long established semi natural woodland which once formed part of Dumfries Estate.
Lethanhill to Rankinston
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Distance: 5.5m (8.9km)
Time: 1hr 30mins
Grade: Easy/Moderate
Start: Lethanhill
Finish: Rankinston
Description: The route starts at Lethanhill and follows the course of a disused railway heading north then east through forestry plantations to reach Rankinston. The route joins Kerse Terrace and then again takes the line of a disused railway north east to Sinclairston. Due to the route following the line of a dismantled railway, it is ideal for a range of non-motorised access including horse riding, off road cycling and walking.
Further Info: This route goes into the hills to the north of Patna and passes by a former school house and village at Lethanhill. It provides a link between the villages of Patna, Rankinston and Sinclairston.
Patna to Straiton
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Distance: 5m (8km)
Time: 1hr 15mins
Grade: Moderate / Hard
Start: Car park, Patna
Finish: Walkers car park, Straiton
Route Description: The path runs south west from Patna mainly on forestry roads and unmade paths via Sclenteuch Moor to the border with South Ayrshire. The path is unmade and can be waterlogged in places. Suitable for walking and riding. Due to the terrain, it is more suited to off road mountain biking
Further Info: There are many local landmarks within Carskeoch Plantation that can be accessed from this route.
Loch Doon Forest Road
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Distance: 2.8m (4.5km)
Time: 1hr
Grade: Easy/Moderate
Start: Loch Doon Dam
Finish: South Ayrshire border
Route Description: This is an on road route from the dam at Loch Doon. The road follows the West shore of Loch Doon for the length of the loch. At this point it leaves the loch and heads west to the Border with South Ayrshire and on to Straiton. By making use of the forest road, this route is suitable for all abilities. Although this route is suitable for a range of user groups, account must be taken of vehicular access on the minor road.
Further Info: The route passes Doon Castle, Loch Doon Dam with good views of the Loch itself.
Dalmellington to Loch Doon
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Distance: 4m (4.6km)
Time: 1hr 30mins
Grade: Moderate
Start: Loch Doon Dam
Finish: A713 Dalmellington to Patna Road
Route Description: From the Dam at Loch Doon, the path almost immediately splits. One line runs directly north up the west side of Ness Glen along a restored Victorian walkway and through an impressive rock gorge. The other runs parallel to this along the Blackney Brae. Both paths meet again at the Craigengillan suspension bridge where the route crosses the River Doon. The path follows the River Doon on an old farm track to Bogton Plantation where it joins the tarmac drive of Craigengillan Estate. The path continues north till it ends at the A713 Dalmellington to Patna road. Only suitable for walking through the gorge. Parking and Cafe at Loch Doon.
Further Info: Ness Glen is a site of Special Scientific Interest and one of the most spectacular rock gorges in south west Scotland. The route is also included as part of the very successful annual Doon Valley Walking Festival.
National Cycle Route 73
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Distance: 2.5m (4.1km)
Time: 35mins (walking) 15mins (moderate cycling speed)
Start: North Ayrshire boundary, Springside
Finish: Western Road, Kilmarnock
Route Description: Begins at the boundary with North Ayrshire Council at Springside and follows the dismantled railway line, upgraded to cycle route in 2001, to Western Road in Kilmarnock. A multi use path mainly used for cycling & walking
Chris Hoy Cycle Way
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Distance: 1.8m (3k)
Time: 30 mins walk, 15 mins moderate cycling speed
Grade: Easy
Start: Mauchline Road, Hurlford
Finish: Gauchalland, Galston
Route Description: The Chris Hoy Cycle Route starts in Hurlford just off the Mauchline Road and follows the dismantled railway path passed Liffnock Yard and enters Galston at Gauchalland. The width and construction of this route makes it suitable for cycling, walking and horse riding.
Further Info: This route forms an important part of the Irvine Valley path network. This is short, off road cycle path is a popular route which is well used all year round.
Irvine Valley Spinal Route
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Distance: 5m (8km)
Time: 1hr 45mins
Grade: Moderate
Start: Galston Running Track
Finish: Priestland
Route Description: The route follows a gravel track along the River Irvine passing Barrmill and Greenmill. After Greenmill, it leads onto an access track before reaching Newmilns at the former Vesuvius factory. It then heads up Browns Road and eastwards along the River Irvine on the northern edge of Lanfine Estate. At Ranoldcoup Bridge, it follows a minor road passed High Greenbank Farm to Priestland. This route is suitable for walking and cycling in its entirety. However, it also suitable for horse riding from Brown’s Road in Newmilns to Ranoldcoup Road in Darvel. By following gravel paths and minor roads, this route is suitable for all abilities. However, account should be taken of motorised access to the minor roads and road crossings.
Further Info: Not only does this route connect all the towns of the Valley, it also provides links to important sites of interest, including Lanfine Estate. This route is an important part of the Irvine Valley Path Network, which attracts many visitors to the area each year.
Kilmarnock to Whitelee
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Distance: 12.1m (19.4km)
Time: 1-1.5hrs moderate cycling speed, 3 hours walking
Grade: Moderate / Hard
Start: Grassyards Road, KIlmarnock
Finish: Whitelee Windfarm
Route Description: Starting from Kilmarnock at the top of Grassyards Road, the route follows the minor road to Moscow. At Moscow, it crosses the A719 and heads along the forest track into Whitelee. This route continues over the East Ayrshire boundary into South Lanarkshire. It should be noted that at the end of the tarmac public road, near Cowan's Law, the route is poorly defined, simply following forest rides-it is unsurfaced, uneven and very boggy in places. This route uses minor roads and is therefore suitable for all abilities. Suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding, it should be noted however that access can be restricted on the route from Cowan's Law due to seasonal shooting.
Further Info: Account should be taken of vehicular traffic on this route
Waterside to Craigenduntan Reservoir
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Distance: 3.3m (5.4km)
Time: 1hr
Grade: Moderate
Start: Waterside
Finish: Craigendunton Reservoir
Route Description: Park your car in Waterside, then walk the short distance south on the A719, before the left turn at Hareshaw. Follow this quiet country road for around a mile, before turning left again, up the access track for Airtnoch Farm. At the top of the hill walk past the farm, through a large gate. You will start to see the turbines of Whitelee Windfarm in front of you. As you continue on your way, fine views of Arran and the Firth of Clyde will open up to your left. The track then heads into the forest. There is a cattle grid here at the start of the driveway for Craigendunton House, though there is a pedestrian gate at the side. Follow the track to the left of the house. After about half a mile you will come to a locked gate, with pedestrian access to the left hand side. Just after the gate there is a track to the right which gives the walker easy access to the windfarm, with a helpful fingerpost and map board. To get to Craigendunton Reservoir, continue straight on at this point, over the Dunton Water, and soon the dam wall will appear before you. Immediately below the dam, pass through the pedestrian gate, and follow the track up to the right around the side of the dam. This route finishes at a metal foot bridge. You can simply retrace your steps from here to get back to the start point, or you can make a circuit of the reservoir before turning back. Please be aware that even though the path appears to be good at first, there are sections along the northern bank where the path is little more than a peaty desire line.
Suitable for walking and cycling
Further Info: If dog walking, please keep your dog on a lead at all times in and around Airtnoch Farm. The cattle grid just before Craigendunton prevents any further access for horse riders.
The Weavers' Trail
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Distance: 6.3m (10.2km)
Time: 1.5 - 2hrs
Grade: Moderate / Hard
Start: Bransfield Bridge, Darvel
Finish: Crook Hill, near Turbine 61 Whitelee Windfarm
Route Description: The route is under development. It starts at Foulpapple Road between Newmilns and Darvel and heads north along a minor road until it becomes farm track at the turn off for Laigh Overmuir. Keep heading north along the long, straight access track to the now demolished High Overmuir Farm. Turn off this track when it turns sharply left, and follow the footpath as indicated by the wooden fingerpost. The route is now a moorland path, and eventually leads to Eaglesham in East Renfrewshire. It should be noted that the section across Whitelee Windfarm is still not a surfaced path. From High Overmuir to the SPR Spine Road, is an overgrown desire line. The last section from the Spine Road across the moor to Crook Hill just beyond Turbine No. 61, is very wet and boggy and not defined in any way.This route uses mainly minor roads and is therefore for all abilities. Account should be taken of vehicular traffic on this route.
Further Info: Part of the Weavers' Trail path was used by the handloom weavers of the Irvine Valley taking their lace to Glasgow and Paisley. Another key heritage feature of this route is the Long Cairn which, at 335ft, is the longest in Scotland. With a history dating back to around 5000 years ago, it held the burial chambers of 5 chieftains. The route passes Darvel’s Meteorological Station
Darvel to Loudoun Hill
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Distance: 2.8m (4.6km)
Time: 45mins- 1hr
Grade: Moderate
Start: Manse Brae, Darvel
Finish: Loudoun Hill base
Route Description: A linear walk, mainly along a disused railway track to the foot of Loudoun Hill near the Spirit of Scotland Monument. The route consists of grass and earth footpaths and farmland however path works are taking place to improve the route.
From Darvel follow the route until you reach the remains of the old viaduct, where you should follow the steps down onto a minor road. At this point, turn right towards a cottage then left uphill for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach a gate on your right. You will see the back of Loudoun Hill. Pass through the gate and follow the whindust path making your way around the hill, where you will see the Spirit of Scotland Monument on the other side of a wooden footbridge
Further Info: Loudoun Hill is 1054ft above sea level and provides panoramic views across Ayrshire, Firth of Clyde and Arran. A plaque at the top of Loudoun Hill celebrates William Wallace’s victory of 1297. Them is a dedicated monument at the base 'Spirit of Scotland'
The River Ayr Way (East Ayrshire)
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Distance: 22m (33.4km)
Grade: Moderate
Start: Glenbuck Loch
Finish: Mauchline burn at Barskimming Estate. However, this route continues into South Ayrshire through Failford and finishing at Ayr Harbour.
Route Description: The River Ayr Way is East Ayrshire’s only ‘Great Trail’ and offers a variety of landscapes for the visitor to immerse themselves in. The walk start at Glenbuck Loch and from here you can pick up the trail and follow it west towards the town of Muirkirk. The trail continues west to the village of Sorn where you will pass Sorn Castle. The next stage passes Catrine and Mauchline before coming to the noteworthy Failford Gorge. This area includes a woodland nature reserve located in a steep ravine of sandstone cliffs. After exploring the gorge the route continues to Stair, leaving East Ayrshire to Annbank before coming to the coast at Ayr. The River Ayr Way is an ideal medium-distance route for novices, with mostly flat terrain and only a few steep climbs. The route can be walked over a long weekend, making an ideal short break for visitors to Ayrshire. It is also very popular tackled in short sections as day walks
Lugar Water Trail
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Distance: 3.6m (5.8km)
Time: 1hr
Grade: Easy
Start: A70 Muirkirk Road, before Lugar
Finish: Ochiltree
Route Description: The Lugar Water Trail skirts Knockroon Wood and heads towards Auchinleck. It follows the Lugar Water under the A76 eastwards to Ochiltree. The start of the path is a former farm track. Once in Waterside Wood, it leaves the track and runs parallel to the river. It continues through fields until arriving at Ochiltree.
Further Info: This is a great route to experience some of Ayrshire’s most interesting heritage. Not only is it a river walk with lots of natural heritage, it also passes just north of the designed landscape of Dumfries House. It also passes close to the Barony A Frame
Rights of way, core paths and footpaths · East Ayrshire Council (east-ayrshire.gov.uk)