We are the Cunninghame Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Commencing at Lochwinnoch Station after the arrival of the 10.19 from Kilwinning at 10.32 we will walk to the Visitor Centre at Castle Semple. Toilet facilities are available at the Centre. From there we walk along the edge of the Loch and head out to the area known as Parkhill which allows with a couple of short ascents to reach vantage points with what on a clear day are wonderful views. After coffee, we will head on through the woods and pick up the cycle and walking route up towards the Temple structure for lunch. Climbing up to this location is optional as those who make the ascent will drop down from the hill to rejoin the recognised path which we can reach to the site of the former Semple Castle which gives its name to the Country Park. Our final part of the walk sees us return towards the side of the loch and back to the Visitor Centre before completing the return to the cars at the station. Our route will allow us to explore the Estate Grotto, the Collegiate Church and the Ice Houses near the Cascades which with normal rainfall provide a pleasing location.
The walk is about seven miles and is graded as an easy C+. It is mainly a flat walk with three short climbs which never take us above 70 metres (200 feet) of elevation. Should anyone intend to shorten the route by joining us at the Visitor Centre and finishing there, please let us know in advance of your intentions. The remaining walk would be a bit less than five miles. The walking time from the station to the Visitor Centre is about twenty minutes.
Return trains from Lochwinnoch heading southbound depart at three minutes past each hour.
Risk Assessment. There are no specific hazards. We cross the road at a light controlled crossing. Care must be exercised when walking on unsurfaced paths to avoid trips or slips.
Commencing at Lochwinnoch Station after the arrival of the 10.19 from Kilwinning at 10.32 we will walk to the Visitor Centre at Castle Semple. Toilet facilities are available at the Centre. Should anyone intend to shorten the route by joining us at the Visitor Centre and finishing there, please let us know in advance of your intentions. The remaining walk would be a bit less than five miles. The walking time from the station to the Visitor Centre is about twenty minutes. Return trains from Lochwinnoch heading southbound depart at three minutes past each hour.
