Start: Blackburn car park on the seafront at Ayr
Distance: 19 miles
Grading : Moderate
The Ayrshire Cycle Route route takes in long portions of the Ayrshire coastline between Irvine, Troon, Prestwick and Ayr. Amazing views across to the Isle of Arran. The cycleway goes through two Scottish Wildlife reserves, Gailes Marsh and Shewalton Wood. Enjoy beaches or explore town centres. Shorter cycling trips can be made using the trains from Irvine, Barassie, Troon, Prestwick International Airport, Prestwick Town and Ayr stations.
The Ayrshire Cycle Route is part of the National Cycle Network. It forms a section of the Lochs and Glens Cycle Route (South), National Route 7, which runs between Carlisle and Glasgow
Its an undulating route but a good touring ride with views of the Firth of Clyde, various castles, Robert Burns’ links and stunning countryside.
Start at the Blackburn car park on the seafront at Ayr through Alloway auld kirk and Brig o’ Doon then take the B7023 to skirt the Carrick Hills. Before reaching Maybole, turn right to a Covenanters memorial and the A719 which goes to the old fishing village of Maidens, turn right past the shop and tearoom, along the seafront, through the caravan park into Culzean Country Park. Past the castle there’s a visitors centre, café. Cycle along the A719 and coast to try the Electric Brae and view Culzean, Ailsa Craig, Arran, Mull of Kintyre. Then down to Dunure with its castle and harbour. Head back on the A719 to view Ayr. Past the holiday park take the cycle path left taking you to the Heads of Ayr and Greenan Castle before crossing the river Doon and return to the start.
Variations Of The Route
There is the Robert Burns sites in Alloway and return by the cycle path and Greenan Castle. After Culroy turn right and follow NCR7 to climb to Carrick Hill viewpoint then to the start. Drop into Maybole for the train. There’s a community café nearby (not Sundays). Go left to loop through Kirkoswald, head south to the Ayrshire Alps or Girvan and the train.
Ayrshire Coast Cycleway Route Map & GPX
Ayrshire Coast Cycleway Accommodation
The Beechwood Guesthouse, Ayr Single, twin, double & family rooms. We are conveniently placed for all of the sights and attractions in the Ayrshire area.
More Information
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Auld Kirk and Brig o’ Doon
Covenanters memorial
Culzean Country Park and Castle, visitors centre, cafe
Another Scottish Trail. Assynt Achiltibuie Circular Cycle Trail, Scottish Highlands.
