We are the Glasgow Ramblers. If you enjoy walking or want to give it a try come and join us.
Discover the history and wildlife of Castle Semple Country Park. Leaving Howwood Train Station we follow the Black Cart Water towards Kenmure Hill, a short walk up a grassy hill. Coffee with a view, hopefully. Retracing our steps we pick up the Semple Trail stopping to explore the ruins of the Collegiate Church with its link to the Battle of Flodden, the remains of an elaborate 18th century water feature, and a Grotto. The trail descends through Parkhill woods to Castle Semple Loch, and a break for lunch close to the shore. We continue along and around the head of Loch Semple making our way to the RSPB Reserve (fee, optional donation). Walking through the nature reserve and along the new 400m boardwalk we reach the ruins of the previously inaccessible 16th Peel Tower. As we walk across the water look out for Wigeon, Goldeneye and Grebes. Back to the shop/café at the RSPB centre it’s a 5 minute walk to Lochwinnoch Railway Station where there are trains to Glasgow every half hour or so.
Please purchase a return train ticket to Lochwinnoch, we alight at Howwood. The train for Largs leaves at 9.45, arriving Howwood 10.04
There are toilets at the Castle Semple Visitor Centre and at the RSPB reserve. Cover along the way.
Brings snacks and a picnic lunch.
Although most of the route is on good tracks, with some hard surfaces it is very muddy in places, boots recommended. There is one stone stile to cross at the beginning of the walk.
This walk is a repeat of the walk on Wednesday 31 January.
Meet outside M&S in Glasgow Central Station. Please purchase a return ticket to Lochwinnoch, we alight at Howwood
Howwood train station
