We are the Kilmarnock & Loudoun Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Isobel M.
OVERVIEW
This is a Grade B+ walk up the second highest peak in the Campsie Fells at 1,870ft using the alternative route from the village of Queenzieburn which is between Kirkintilloch and Kilsyth.
We start the steady climb up from the community centre at Queenzieburn, firstly on a minor road followed by a path and then a short area of rough ground until we rejoin a track to the attractive Birkburn Reservoir where we have a burn to cross. The next section is across moorland to the edge of a forest. We descend and then ascend again through the trees (which can be slippery) before our final push to the summit on a grassy path.
On a clear day the views from the top of Meikle Bin are magnificent in all directions.
The return journey is by the same route.
This walk is on a mixture of tarmac roads, tracks, rough paths and open moorland. It can be very wet and slippery in places especially on the earthen paths through the forest. We have two fences, two stiles and a burn to cross on each of the outward and inward legs.
Boots, gaiters and poles are essential.
East Ayrshire Headquarters, London Rd., Kilmarnock KA3 7BU
To get to the start point at Queenzieburn Community Hall, take A77 North to Glasgow and join M8 East. At junction 13 take the left hand lanes to slip onto the M80 (Stirling road). At junction 3 of the M80 follow the Kirkintilloch signs onto Initiative Rd. Follow this road straight through 4 roundabouts until you get into Kirkintilloch proper. You will pass the Broadcroft Hotel on your left. At the next set of traffic lights turn right onto High Street. At the next roundabout, take the first left onto East Side. At the next roundabout, take the 3rd turning onto Kilsyth Road (A803). Follow this road until you come to the village of Queenzieburn (Approx 3 miles). At the crossroads at the start of the village turn left up the hill on Mill Road. The Community Hall is on the left opposite the village primary school. There should be plenty of on street and some off street parking. (If using Google Maps type in "Chapelgreen Primary School, Queenzieburn") Distance from Kilmarnock is 36 miles. If you are going directly to the start of the walk, please let Isobel know by text message.
