Eglinton Improver

Start: Main Visitor Carpark (opposite play park). Grid ref NS 319 418. What3Words: ///escaping.teacher.celebrate

(S/E) Leave the carpark at the pedestrian crossing. Don't cross the crossing but instead turn to the right (East), passing a large parking area on the right (for coaches and horseboxes) and head towards the pedestrian path (marked by a coach Parking and keep clear sign). Carry on along this path adjacent to the B7080 (be aware that from here until the next gate there is vehicle access for one house).

Pass through the gate ahead, pass the underpass on the right carrying on straight ahead (East). Pass a stone building (Dovecote) on your right as you round to the left, bypassing any left junctions.

(1) Keep right passing the pond on your right, now heading South East. Continue on straight ahead until you reach a bridge on your left.

(2) Cross the bridge and carry on straight ahead (North). By pass any right junctions continuing on until the crossroads.

(3) At the crossroads turn left, now heading West past the green 'grubber' machine on your left. Continue on, by passing any left junctions and crossing the stone bridge, the Lugton Water now directly adjacent on your right. Continue on until the ford. At the ford turn left, you will now be heading away from the river.

(4) Turn South into the first grassy upward hill on the left and make your way to the top of the Belvedere Hill. (This terrain can often be difficult with long grass so please note the alternative is to continue on along the path South West back to the car park).

(5) At the top of the Belvedere Hill orientate West until views of Eglinton Loch are behind and slightly to the left. On a clear day you will see clear views of the Isle of Arran straight ahead. Walk down this grassy slope.

At the bottom of the slope pick up the path and turn left through the gate then immediately right back to the car park and starting point. (S/E)

Start: Main Visitor Carpark (opposite play park). Grid ref NS 319 418. What3Words: ///escaping.teacher.celebrate

Parking: Parking is free in Eglinton Country Park, however, there is a donations box should you wish.

Transport: The closest train station is Kilwinning approx 5 miles away. The nearest bus stop is on Watercut Road and is an approx 10 minute walk from Eglinton Country Park Visitor Centre and starting point.

Facilities: Eglinton Country Park has a Visitor Centre and Cafe with facilities (https://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/leisur...).

Terrain: This is a country park with a mixture of whin and tarmac paths around the 'honey pot' areas of the visitor centre and castle ruins. Further out the tracks are mainly whin and woodland. These paths can often be muddy so appropriate outdoor footwear is advised.

Dog policy: This Park has an off the lead policy but note there is livestock adjacent to paths (behind fences) and the park is frequented by horse riders and cyclists.

Alternative: There are many different trails that can be taken. Please check here.

Note: There are benches and single perch seats at various locations along the route.

This is a great place for wildlife, bring binoculars to try and catch glimpses of kingfishers and dippers along the Lugton Water.

There is a well equipped all abilities play park, cafe and visitor centre.

North Ayrshire Ranger Service are based here and often run activities

Eglinton Community Gardens is a short walk away

There are regular Nordic Walking Classes every Saturday morning

There is a park run every Saturday morning

There is a Cani-fit group