We are the Kilmarnock & Loudoun Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Evelyn W.
We leave the car park and turn left walking a short way on the pavement before starting the Woodland Walk which takes us along the back of Sorn village to Sorn Church. We then cross the bridge and walk up a slight incline before joining the River Ayr Way. It is a straight even walk and we arrive in Catrine going past the Voes which are part of the history of Catrine. There are points of interest along the way.
We will have a stop at Catrine Square for a short coffee break where there are lots of benches and a chance to view the many points of interest on the posters. We will then proceed to Ballochmyle Viaduct through beautiful wooded area, the first bridge we come to is Howford Bridge, there are several steep steps and caution is required. There are also numerous tree roots. We then continue to Ballochmyle Viaduct which was constructed between 1846 and 1848. This is a 7 arch engineering masterpiece incorporating the largest masonry railway arch in the UK. There will be a few minutes to stop here and take in the magnificence of this structure. We will either stop for lunch here or walk back to the bridge overlooking the Howford Bridge where there are places to sit for lunch. We return to Sorn following the same route we came. On arriving in Sorn we will walk through the village to the car park.
On arriving in Sorn drive though he village past both Sorn Inn and the Bowling Club, both on the left hand side. Almost at the end of the village turn left to the playing field where there is ample parking.
Car mileage is 28 miles round trip £14 per car. Approximately 25 minutes travel each way.
This is a very pleasant 9 mile woodland walk taking in part of The River Ayr Way from Sorn to Ballochmyle Viaduct.
Most of the walk is on well established paths. Underfoot, If dry, is quite good but if there has been rain extra care is required on the steps and care to be taken at tree roots. Poles, perhaps gaiters, sturdy walking shoes are required.
Please notify the walk leader if making your own way to Sorn
We will meet at 08.45 to arrange car sharing at East Ayrshire Council Headquarters car park, 95 London Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7BU. We will leave prompt at 09.00.
Car park on Main Street, Sorn at the far end of Sorn, past the bowling club.
