We are the Kilmarnock & Loudoun Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
This B+ 8.4 mile walk with a total ascent of 2200 feet of Broughton Heights in the Southern Uplands is mainly on country paths and open heathland and a short piece of road.. It is rated B+ Moderate to strenuous) and with the highest hill being only 1873 feet (Marilyn). The walk starts at Broughton Village Hall carpark. There is one short steep hill (Hammer Head) but the rest are relatively easy ascents. If the weather is kind and clear we will have good views of the Southern Highlands and also the likes of Tinto and Culter Fell. Risk Assesstment. We may take a short bit of the walk on a road so single file and care is required.
The walk follows the John Buchan way to Cowiemuir Hass where we turn and head uphill to Broomy Side, Green Law, and Pike Stane Hill which is on Broughton Heights. We retrace our steps to Cowiemuir Hass and climb the short steep ascent of Hammer Head. With nearly all of ascent being done we head to Green Lairs, Grey Yade and a short detour to Trahenna Hill. Finally we descend to the Shepherds cottage on the John Buchan Way and return to the carpark.
If the weather has been wet then gaiters are recommended, and walking poles maybe an assistance in places too.
We will meet at East Ayrshire Council Headquarters car park 95 London Road at 0745 to depart at 0800hrs.
Please inform Denis the walk leader if you are going direct to Broughton. (07783563245)
NS43968 37522
Driving Instructions Depart Kilmarnock at 0800hrs Take the A71 through Strathaven and around Stonehouse and join the M74 South at Canderside Toll. Leave the motorway at Abington and follow the A702 to Biggar. At the end of Biggar take the B7016 for 5 miles. At the T Junction of Broughton turn left and immediately right in the village hall carpark. Journey 60 miles each way.
