Ayrshire Coastal Path 3: Lendalfoot to Girvan

Summary

After an initial stretch along the pebbly shoreline, this third stage of the Ayrshire Coastal Path climbs across the slopes of Pinbain Hill, following the line of the old coach road, with stunning views over the sea to Ailsa Craig. It then returns to the coast for the final stretch into the town of Girvan.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Rough going on sand and pebble shore. Landrover track on hill with livestock. Boggy section, then more shore path.

Getting there

Start

Lendalfoot.

Public Transport

Both Lendalfoot and Girvan are served by regular buses along the A77, whilst Girvan also has a rail station.

Start Grid Ref

NX131900

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 11km / 6.75 miles
Time: 3 - 4 hours
Ascent: 140m (Profile)

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Walk Description

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Stage 1

The stage begins by heading north from Lendalfoot along the roadside pavement. Continue until a small memorial that commemorates the crew of a shipwreck back in 1711. At this point drop down onto the shoreline.

Stage 2

Turn right to continue along the pathless shore - with a mix of sand, pebbles and rocks. After just over a kilometre along this rough shoreline head up to the road, then turn left along the nearside verge. Before reaching the crash barriers and bend cross the road with care to head for the waymarked grassy track off to the right. This climbs steeply up the back of what looks like an old quarry.

Stage 3

This soon passes through a gate and continues as a grassy hill track. This next section follows the line of the original coach road from the days before the road was blasted along the coast at the Kennedy Pass. It gives excellent walking with fine views over the sea. Pass through several gates as the track runs across the slopes of Pinbain Hill.

Stage 4

There are a few remnants of the old surfaced road underfoot - an early example of the macadamised construction technique developed by Ayrshire man John Loudon McAdam in the late 18th Century. Pass a ruined cottage and mast, and join another track coming in from the right. The track now descends back towards the coast, with Girvan visible in the distance.

Stage 5

After another gate, the main track swings left to join the main road - but our route continues ahead on a narrower track. This has one or two boggy sections - you may need to bypass using the grass alongside. Cross a stile, and when a farm track is reached opposite a barn turn left to head down to the road. Cross with care and then head along the grass verge on the far side. A sign indicates where you can head down onto the rough shore again - assuming the tide isn't high.

Stage 6

Rejoin the road verge when you reach the Bynehill Burn. There's a path which diverges from the A77 once more to stay by the coast and pass Horse Rock, keeping to the left of the house - though this can be a little overgrown at times. Eventually the roadside pavement is rejoined to pass the car park and toilets at the southern end of Girvan promenade. Continue along the surfaced path to continue all the way to the harbour, then turn right to reach the town centre, which has all shops and services.

Next stage: Girvan to Maidens

Route Profile

Where to stay

Ayrshire Hotels

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Glamping and Camping

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