kilmarnock and loudoun group logo

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

Overview

Park in the square at Leadhills, beside the Village Hall.   Leaving the Village towards Wanlockhead we turn right uphill and join a rough farm track.   It is uphill from the start and although there are no major hills to climb, this is an energetic route with over 1700 feet of ascent.   It continues on an undulating path to Snarhead (an old farming settlement).  Continuing around Snar Law and Sims Hill we come to the ancient ruins of Glendorch Bastle House (a fortified farmhouse), dating back to the early 16th century.   Lunch at this spot is in the company of two beautiful ancient sycamore trees.   We continue on this circular walk in the Leadhills, surrounded by panoramic views of the Lowther Hills and beyond, the descent towards the disused mines is steep, requiring care.  This is followed by a lovely walk through the picturesque village back to the cars.

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Saturday, 23 August 2025
Meeting time:
8:30 am
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
4:00 pm
Difficulty:
Strenuous
Distance:
13.7km / 8.5mi
Ascent:
548.6m / 1800ft
Type:
circular

Underfoot is mainly on rough farm track with a steep heather clad descent.    Several streams to be crossed cause no problems.   Farm animals grazing on hillside.   Good supportive boots and poles required.  Meeting at the earlier time of 0830 for a 0840 departure from East Ayrshire Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock.    Travel time approximately 1 hour 10 minutes.   Car sharing cost £25 per car.

Toilet facilities at Wanlockhead en route to Leadhills village.

PLEASE LET THE WALK LEADER KNOW IF YOU PLAN TO TRAVEL DIRECT TO LEADHILL VILLAGE 

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available
  • No Stiles

Meeting point

Grid reference:
NS 43947 37469
Nearest postcode:
KA3 7BU
what3words:
dined.applauded.season
Meeting time:
8:30 am

Meeting point East Ayrshire Headquarters, London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU for car share. Earlier time of 0830 for 0840 departure

Starting point

Grid reference:
NS 88714 15137
Nearest postcode:
ML12 6YF
what3words:
daredevil.tallest.glides
Start time:
10:00 am

Leadhills village Hall

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