kilmarnock and loudoun group logo

Kilmarnock & Loudoun Group

We are the Kilmarnock & Loudoun Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

A circular forest walk, part of the Barr Trail. All forest paths,  overlooking the open countryside, hills and forest. Starting at around 10.15am

From the car park we will walk along the paths passing Chanque House.  The house is a renovated building that was a shepherd 's dwelling belonging to the McTaggert family before the first world war and the story of Kirstie !  The walk follows the forest path with the river of Gregg water beside.  At the moment there is a lovely show of snowdrops.  We are following the yellow marker, firstly on the level, then the path starts to incline and we gradually climb eventually reaching the top of the hill.  Views of the Howe of Laggan and beyond.  We will stop for a tea and lunch break when ready.

From the top we start back downwards into the forest back to the car park.  The recent storm has caused several trees to fall down across this part of the path!  Although difficult it is manageable!

Sunday, 16 February 2025
Meeting time:
8:30 am
Start time:
10:15 am
Estimated finish time:
3:15 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
12.9km / 8.0mi
Ascent:
206m / 676ft
Type:
circular

I have decided to make this a B grade walk due to the length 8 miles and the obstacles and hazard of fallen trees that we will need to maneuver.

Suitable clothing, boots and poles are required.

Also I would consider cancelling the walk if the weather was poor, like heavy rain and bad light! because of the fallen trees?

Walk leader Joan Jamieson. Please contact Joan on 07851201830 if you intend to go straight to the start point.

Features

  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available
  • No Stiles

Meeting point

Grid reference:
NS 43946 37470
Nearest postcode:
KA3 7BU
what3words:
dined.applauded.season
Meeting time:
8:30 am

Meet as South Ayrshire Headquarters car park, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU for car sharing.

Starting point

Grid reference:
NX 28699 94201
Nearest postcode:
KA26 9TN
what3words:
cigar.presses.spearing
Start time:
10:15 am

To travel to Barr, take the Kilmarnock to Ayr A77. Continue on the motorway through Ayr on the A77 for Stranraer . At the roundabout before Girvin taking the Barr road B7045 then left onto B7023 to Barr village. Drive through the village and follow the sign for the Barr Trail car park. Milage 33miles. The Barr road to the village is a long twisty road that needs careful driving. On the A77 for Stranraer near the turnoff for Doonfoot/Burns Centre there are traffic lights due to road work that can cause delays.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking