Hurlford - Templetonburn - Milton - Burbank Bridge - Galston

Derek Smith

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This is the Grougar Walk, a very pleasant one-way rural countryside walk following one of the local Irvine Valley Trails. It's a route along a wide surfaced path at the start, then a lightly used country lane followed by a couple of rarely used dead-end lanes, and finally along a more normal narrow footpath. Halfway along the trail it passes the Gougar Cottages which give their name to the walk. For most of the way it follows the river Irvine, sometimes close to hand and at other times more distant. There are no stiles or gates, and only a couple of metal snickets to negotiate. As all of the paths are along hedged or fenced corridors there will be no cows, sheep or other animals on your path. It is mainly flat and level with only a few short but steepish slopes. The walk ends at a bus stop in Galston where one of the regular busses will take you back to your vehicle - or homeward bound.

The walk is suitable for teenagers, senior citizens and anyone in-between, probably a bit boring for children. Excellent for dogs, but the final path will be difficult for buggies and a challenge for the adventurous wheelchair user who will need assistants. Suitable footwear will be anything flat soled and there should be no problems for anyone wearing shorts. On your route there are no refreshments or any other facilities, except for a bench seat by an old cemetery. However, there are shops and pubs near the beginning and end of the walk, and the Standalane Tavern is next to the bus stop at Galston. If you book in advance; tel. 01563 257039, you should be able to get a good meal with a drink before you catch the bus back; an excellent finish to a good walk.

Scotland - South Scotland - Ayrshire and Arran - Countryside