Doon River Walk

The walk along the River Doon is part of East Ayrshire's Core Path Network. The path is around four miles (4.6km) long and splits to form a pleasing loop for users. One one side there is a restored Victorian walkway along the Ness Glen and through a rock gorge that is an area of special scientific interest due to the collection of rare mosses and ferns growing there.

The other side of the path runs parallel further down the hill, meeting again at the suspension bridge over the river within the Craigengillan estate. The path is probably best enjoyed from the Loch Doon end where there is a cafe to provide refreshments.

The loch has its own separate designation as an SSI due to the population of Arctic Char fish that live there. The impressive dam has an internal fish ladder to allow migrating Salmon to return and spawn the next generation.

The CCLP Project was to improve the existing path that in some places was just a trail worn by dog walkers, fishermen or birdwatchers.

The path links the villages of Dalmellington and Bellsbank with Loch Doon, so opening up the landscape and heritage to many more people.

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act of 2003 placed certain duties on councils to maintain responsible use of land and inland waterways. The East Ayrshire Leisure Trust carry this out on behalf of the council in consultation with local communities.

Although the path is well established and very popular, improvements and repairs are a constant commitment. These were are carried out by the team of apprentices and staff from East Ayrshire Woodlands .

“We provide training for young people to give them the knowledge, but also the practical experience to make them employable. Paths need to have a good surface for people to make use of them in winter, that is what attracts people to an area throughout the year.”

Among the many pleasures to be found along the way are a nesting pair of Ospreys who return every year between April and August. They have raised eighteen chicks over the years between migrations to Africa to avoid the Scottish winter.

The improvements to the path mean that you do not need to do the same, the path can be enjoyed all year round.

The Loch Doon River Walk is not a route that is accessible to everyone due to the steep sides of the Glen. Wheelchairs and prams would probably find it impossible.

There is a gravel path from the cafe that avoids these steps however access much beyond the base of the dam becomes limited.

The designation as a site of special scientific interest limits what more can be done to improve that situation.

This is a proper forest walk where you can immerse yourself in a peaceful natural environment with an impressive array of wildlife, trees, ferns, mosses and wild flowers.