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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.

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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
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Overview

This walk is a 'lollypop shape' beginning and ending in the village of Wanlockhead. It is a B+ walk (Strenuous in Ramblers grading) and, if the weather is kind, your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views throughout. It is approximately 9.5miles long with a total ascent of over 3,000ft.

We begin by following the SUW leading us upwards towards 'the metal road'. From there we go onto a slightly less steep path leading us towards East Lowther (631m - 2070ft). This is a relatively short, steady climb and from there we head downwards, over Thirstane Hill, towards Enterkin Burn. There is a bridge to take us across the burn but, at some, appropriate, point we need re-cross before beginning the steady, sometimes steep, uphill route back to 'the metal road'. From there we retrace our steps and back to our cars.

Saturday, 31 May 2025
Meeting time:
8:45 am
Start time:
10:15 am
Estimated finish time:
4:30 pm
Difficulty:
Strenuous
Distance:
15.3km / 9.5mi
Ascent:
1000m / 3281ft
Type:
circular

The terrain can be rough in places so strong footwear is essential and walking poles advisable. Underfoot was dry on the day of the recce but gaiters may be useful. Care must be taken when fording the burn and also in the short sections of road walking. 

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available

Meeting point

Grid reference:
NS 43946 37470
Nearest postcode:
KA3 7BU
what3words:
dined.applauded.season
Meeting time:
8:45 am

East Ayrshire Headquarters Car Park London Road Kilmarnock

Starting point

Grid reference:
NS 87301 12592
Nearest postcode:
ML12 6UH
what3words:
masks.cats.swims
Start time:
10:15 am

Overspill car park which is on the left as you before you enter Wanlockhead

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