Peden’s Cove is hidden inside Ayr Gorge Woodland, a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve. This beautiful and ancient woodland is formed around an incredible red sandstone canyon, which gives the water of the River Ayr a vibrant red appearance when the sun shines directly onto it! Peden’s Cove, a set of steps carved into the red sandstone cliffs, is reached a mile along the footpath.
(D/A) Facing the Failford Inn (KA5 5TF), head right (South West) on B743.
(1) Immediately after crossing a bridge over the Water of Fail, turn left (South) to enter Ayr Gorge Woodlands.
(2) Follow this woodland trail across a footbridge then up a steep staircase. At the top of the stairs keep left at any forks in the path (not shown on map).
(3) The River Ayr is on your left-hand side and the path follows the course of the river for 870m to a fork. Keep left.
(4) 360m along you will reach Peden's Cove viewpoint.
Retrace your steps to return to the Failford Inn (D/A)
Waypoints :
D/A : km 0 - alt. 57 m - Failford Inn
1 : km 0.1 - alt. 58 m - Ayr Gorge Woodlands entrance
2 : km 0.26 - alt. 72 m - Staircase
3 : km 1.19 - alt. 60 m - Fork - keep left
4 : km 1.56 - alt. 73 m - Peden's Cove Viewpoint
D/A : km 3.11 - alt. 57 m - Failford Inn
For more information and a walk review visit Gillian's Walks
Transport
By car: there are a few parking spaces just off B74 opposite the Failford Inn
By bus: there is a bus service to Failford from Cumnock or Ayr
Terrain
There is a large set steps on this route and the earth footpaths can become muddy after rain
Visorando and this author cannot be held responsible in the case of accidents or problems occuring on this walk.
Ayr Gorge Woodlands reserve is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Scottish Wildlife Trust Ayrshire. Follow the path of the River Ayr as it flows through a deep red sandstone gorge. This circular / figure-of-eight route takes you around most of the main trails, giving you the opportunity to explore this beautiful ancient woodland including the popular viewpoint at Peden's Cove.
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The GPS track and description are the property of the author.