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.

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

From our start point we cross the main road and turn right before turning left into Castle hill. Soon after this we enter the Knockshinnoch nature reserve. Once through the nature reserve we cross another road, go through a field, then head to the Knockshinnoch mining disaster memorial. We'll probably have a tea break here. Carrying on from here we cross another road, then go over a bridge to follow a path alongside the Afton water. Next, passing through a gate we cross a field before going uphill to the highest part of the walk, Dalhana hill. We then head towards a lone wind turbine to pick up the road that leads back into the village of New Cumnock. This is a nice, varied walk with lovely views on a good day.

Saturday, 24 January 2026
Meeting time:
8:50 am
Start time:
9:45 am
Estimated finish time:
2:15 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
10.5km / 6.5mi
Ascent:
167m / 548ft
Type:
circular

Some parts of this walk will be muddy, so I would advise you to wear gaiters. Also, as some parts of the walk will be uneven, and probably slippery underfoot, you will need walking poles.    Travelling from Kilmarnock take the A76 south all the way to New Cumnock. The swimming pool car park, our start point, is on the left just before the mini roundabout. Total return milage is 42 miles. £14 per car. If you intend to go directly to the start point, please let me know.

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Accessible by public transport
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available

Meeting point

Grid reference:
NS 43959 37520
Nearest postcode:
KA3 7BU
Meeting time:
8:50 am

East Ayrshire council offices, 95, London road, Kilmarnock

Starting point

Grid reference:
NS 61798 13523
Nearest postcode:
KA18 4AN
Start time:
9:45 am

New Cumnock swimming pool car park

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