Glasgow and West Central Scotland - Sustrans
Glasgow and West Central Scotland - Sustrans
Glasgow and West Central Scotland - Sustrans
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
Forth Road Bridge & Dalmeny<br />
National Cycle Network<br />
Go Traffic Free<br />
in Scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>West</strong> <strong>Central</strong> Scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
SCOTLAND CYCLE MAP
Overview<br />
Use this booklet to follow safe <strong>and</strong> attractive walking<br />
<strong>and</strong> cycling options in <strong>and</strong> around <strong>Glasgow</strong> <strong>and</strong> across<br />
west-central Scotl<strong>and</strong>. It shows the main traffic-free<br />
sections on the National Cycle Network, Regional<br />
Routes <strong>and</strong> key local routes. Use it to plan your<br />
(carbon-free) trips around <strong>and</strong> out of town. See how far<br />
<strong>and</strong> easily you can travel without a car.<br />
For information on cycle routes across Scotl<strong>and</strong>, see<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong>’ Routes2Ride website – you can also add<br />
your own routes, comments <strong>and</strong> photos.<br />
www.routes2ride.org.uk/scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
Use Ordnance Survey maps <strong>and</strong> the SPOKES map<br />
of <strong>Glasgow</strong> (www.spokes.org.uk) to plan your own<br />
routes. Contact the relevant local authorities for more<br />
information on cycling routes in each area.<br />
How to use this booklet<br />
This booklet highlights walking <strong>and</strong> cycling routes in the following<br />
areas:<br />
1<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> <strong>and</strong> environs<br />
Ayrshire area<br />
Each detailed map uses the following key<br />
Featured route<br />
National Cycle Network traffic-free<br />
National Cycle Network on-road<br />
Regional route/other routes<br />
Proposed cycle route<br />
Railway (station)<br />
Take care point / section<br />
Steep hill / One way<br />
Campsite/Caravan/Youth hostel<br />
Viewpoint<br />
Public house<br />
Cafe<br />
Bike Shop<br />
Shop<br />
Public toilets<br />
Post office<br />
Tourist Information<br />
Castle Tourist attraction<br />
Signalled crossing<br />
p4<br />
Millennium Milepost<br />
p32<br />
Time: The time given to complete a route is calculated on<br />
an average travelling time of 7 miles or 11 km per hour. This<br />
allows for a leisurely cycling pace or for plenty of stops.<br />
Times <strong>and</strong> distances given for linear routes are for one way<br />
only.<br />
Obey the rules of the road<br />
Be courteous<br />
l Give way to pedestrians<br />
Good Cycling Code<br />
l Remember that some people are hard of hearing or visually<br />
impaired<br />
l Where there are wheelchair users or horse riders, please<br />
give way<br />
l Ring a bell in good time or politely call out to warn of your<br />
approach<br />
Care for the environment<br />
l Can you reach the start of your journey by bike or public<br />
transport?<br />
l Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code; in particular,<br />
do not damage crops, don’t disturb livestock or wildlife <strong>and</strong><br />
always take litter home<br />
Look after yourself<br />
l Take care at junctions, when cycling downhill <strong>and</strong> on loose or<br />
wet surfaces<br />
l In remote areas carry food, water, repair kit, map <strong>and</strong><br />
waterproofs<br />
l Keep your bike roadworthy; use lights in poor visibility<br />
l Consider wearing a helmet <strong>and</strong> conspicuous clothing<br />
Using public transport<br />
Why not use the train to carry you <strong>and</strong> your bike further afield or<br />
to take you home after a cycle? Bicycles can be carried on most<br />
trains, but it is advisable to check in advance <strong>and</strong> book a place<br />
as space is limited. For rail information call 08457 48 49 50 or<br />
visit www.nationalrail.co.uk. Bicycles can be carried on Citylink<br />
coaches, but they must be bagged or boxed. Check before<br />
travelling. Phone 0871 266 33 33 or visit www.citylink.co.uk.<br />
For information on all public transport within Scotl<strong>and</strong>, call<br />
0871 200 22 33 or visit www.travelinescotl<strong>and</strong>.com.<br />
Scottish Outdoor Access Code<br />
Know the Code before you go …<br />
Enjoy Scotl<strong>and</strong>’s outdoors - responsibly!<br />
Everyone has the right to be on most<br />
l<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> inl<strong>and</strong> water providing they<br />
act responsibly. Your access rights <strong>and</strong> responsibilities<br />
are explained fully in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.<br />
Whether you’re in the outdoors or managing the outdoors, the<br />
key things are to:<br />
l take responsibility for your own actions;<br />
l respect the interests of other people;<br />
l care for the environment.<br />
Find out more by visiting www.outdooraccess-scotl<strong>and</strong>.com<br />
or phoning your local Scottish Natural Heritage office.<br />
2
Tarbet<br />
Helensburgh<br />
Map <strong>and</strong> text © <strong>Sustrans</strong> 2012<br />
Maps are reproduced from Ordnance Survey<br />
material with the permission of Ordnance<br />
Survey on behalf of the Contoller of Her<br />
Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright.<br />
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown<br />
copyright <strong>and</strong> may lead to prosecution or civil<br />
proceedings. Licence number 100020852<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> & environs<br />
Balloch to Tarbet<br />
p6<br />
Bowling to Balloch<br />
p8<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> to Bowling<br />
p10<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> to Uddingston p12<br />
Coatbridge to Hillend Reservoir p14<br />
Hillend Reservoir to Bathgate p16<br />
Kelvingrove to Port Dundas p18<br />
Strathkelvin Railway Path p20<br />
Bowling to Kirkintilloch p22<br />
Kirkintilloch to Falkirk<br />
p24<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> to Paisley<br />
p26<br />
Paisley to Gourock<br />
p28<br />
Paisley to Kilbirnie<br />
p30<br />
Gourock<br />
Balloch<br />
Dumbarton<br />
Strathblane<br />
Kilsyth<br />
Falkirk<br />
Milngavie<br />
Greenock<br />
Port<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Bowling<br />
Kirkintilloch<br />
Cumbernauld<br />
Kilmacolm<br />
Erskine<br />
Bathgate<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Coatbridge<br />
Bridge of<br />
Weir<br />
Airdrie<br />
Johnstone<br />
Lochwinnoch<br />
Paisley<br />
Rutherglen<br />
Kilbirnie<br />
Barrhead<br />
Motherwell<br />
On-road National Cycle Network section<br />
Dalry<br />
<strong>West</strong> Kilbride<br />
Ardrossan<br />
Beith<br />
Kilwinning<br />
Miles<br />
2 6<br />
0 2 4 8<br />
Kilometres<br />
Traffic-free National Cycle Network section<br />
Hamilton<br />
Other routes<br />
Time: The time given to complete a route is calculated on an<br />
average travelling time of 7 miles or 11 km per hour. This<br />
allows for a leisurely cycling pace or for plenty of stops.<br />
Times <strong>and</strong> distances given for linear routes are for one way<br />
only.<br />
3<br />
Irvine Bay<br />
Irvine<br />
Dundonald<br />
Kilmarnock<br />
Whilst every effort has been made to achieve accuracy of<br />
information in this booklet at time of publication, <strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
can take no responsibility for: loss or injury (including fatal) to<br />
persons; loss of damage to property or equipment; trespass,<br />
irresponsible riding or any other mishap that may be suffered<br />
as a result of following route descriptions in this booklet.<br />
4
A82<br />
Balloch to Tarbet 1<br />
Arrochar <strong>and</strong> Tarbet<br />
Tarbet<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Miles<br />
0 1 2<br />
0<br />
Kilometres<br />
2 3<br />
Ben Lomond<br />
(National Trust for Scotl<strong>and</strong>)<br />
Rubha Mor<br />
Rowardennan<br />
Youth Hostel<br />
Inverbeg<br />
<strong>West</strong> Loch Lomond Cycle Path<br />
Cycling beside Loch Lomond<br />
© Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park<br />
Luss Camping <strong>and</strong><br />
Caravanning Club Site<br />
Milarrochy Bay Camping<br />
<strong>and</strong> Caravanning Club Site<br />
Luss<br />
National Park Centre, Luss<br />
(Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park)<br />
Aldochlay<br />
Duchlage<br />
Arden<br />
Traffic-free path<br />
to Helensburgh<br />
Loch Lomond<br />
Youth Hostel<br />
Loch Lomond<br />
Gartocharn<br />
Balloch Castle<br />
<strong>and</strong> Country<br />
Park<br />
National Park<br />
Gateway Centre<br />
Whinny Hill Wood<br />
(Woodl<strong>and</strong> Trust)<br />
A811<br />
National Park Centre, Balmaha<br />
(Loch Lomond & The<br />
Trossachs National Park)<br />
Balmaha<br />
Loch Lomond National<br />
Nature Reserve<br />
(Scottish<br />
Natural Heritage)<br />
To Aberfoyle<br />
<strong>and</strong> Call<strong>and</strong>er<br />
National<br />
Park Boundary<br />
Category: Rural, cycle path<br />
Distance: 17 miles/28 kilometres<br />
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac, whin dust<br />
From the foot of Loch Lomond, at Balloch,<br />
this traffic-free route runs parallel to the A82<br />
with superb isl<strong>and</strong> views. The halfway point is<br />
marked by the historic village of Luss where<br />
there’s a good visitor centre <strong>and</strong> a range of<br />
comfy coffee shops. As you progress up the<br />
loch you’ll notice how it narrows <strong>and</strong> is<br />
overlooked by the Munros, Ben Lomond <strong>and</strong><br />
Ben Vorlich. Cycle highlights include the<br />
stretches of old road by the loch shore at<br />
Rubha Mór.<br />
There are regular trains from <strong>Glasgow</strong> to<br />
Balloch. On the return journey it’s possible<br />
to catch a train from the Arrochar & Tarbet<br />
station for <strong>Glasgow</strong> (limited service); change<br />
at Dumbarton <strong>Central</strong> to return to Balloch.<br />
Cycle booking required.<br />
5<br />
Map 2<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Balloch<br />
Motoring Heritage Centre<br />
(Scottish Museums Council)<br />
Balloch<br />
6
Bowling to Balloch 2<br />
Map 1<br />
Category: Urban, cycle path<br />
Distance: 10 miles/16 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
National<br />
Park Boundary<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Enjoy an easy cycle from Bowling to<br />
Dumbarton with views of the Clyde,<br />
before a visit to Dumbarton Castle. This<br />
stronghold, where Mary Queen of Scots<br />
hid as a child, has the longest recorded<br />
history of any British castle <strong>and</strong> dates<br />
back to 450 AD.<br />
Continue to follow the River Leven, which<br />
powered a host of leading edge industrial<br />
textile mills in the 18th <strong>and</strong> 19th centuries.<br />
Once you see moored boats you’re near<br />
the journey’s end at Balloch. This route<br />
can be easily shortened as it runs close to<br />
several train stations.<br />
Dumbarton<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Miles<br />
1<br />
2<br />
0<br />
1 2<br />
3<br />
Map 3<br />
7<br />
8
<strong>Glasgow</strong> to Bowling 3<br />
This is a marvellous route from the centre of <strong>Glasgow</strong>, which<br />
follows the River Clyde <strong>and</strong> the Forth & Clyde Canal for effortless<br />
cycling.<br />
Start from Bell’s Bridge where National Routes 7 <strong>and</strong> 75 cross<br />
the Clyde. Shiny modern buildings, which include the <strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Science Centre, give the area a futuristic look.<br />
Further on, the <strong>Glasgow</strong> Harbour area is being redeveloped -<br />
follow the diversion signs. When the redevelopment is complete<br />
National Route 7 will run alongside the river. At Clydebank the<br />
route joins the Forth & Clyde Canal <strong>and</strong> then passes under the<br />
Erskine Bridge before ending at Bowling where the Canal flows<br />
into the River Clyde. This route can be easily shortened as it runs<br />
close to several train stations.<br />
Bell’s Bridge <strong>and</strong> the Scottish Exhibition <strong>and</strong> Conference Centre on the<br />
River Clyde<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Map 2<br />
Miles<br />
0 1 2<br />
1 2 3<br />
Kilometres<br />
Yoker<br />
<strong>West</strong>erton<br />
Maryhill<br />
To Edinburgh<br />
(via Forth & Clyde<br />
<strong>and</strong> Union Canals)<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
White Cart<br />
Water<br />
Renfrew<br />
Port Dundas<br />
Map 4 & 9<br />
9<br />
Category: Urban, riverside <strong>and</strong> canal cycle path<br />
Distance: 11miles/17 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 40 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Mainly tarmac<br />
To Paisley<br />
(not<br />
complete)<br />
Ibrox Stadium<br />
To Gourock & Ayr<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Exhibition Centre<br />
Map 11<br />
M8<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong> Connect2<br />
Scheme<br />
10
M8<br />
A804<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong> to Uddingston 4<br />
Map 3<br />
To Clydebank,<br />
Dumbarton <strong>and</strong> Loch<br />
Lomond <strong>and</strong> The<br />
Trossachs National Park<br />
Scottish Exhibition<br />
<strong>and</strong> Conference<br />
Centre<br />
Waverley<br />
Paddle Boat<br />
Science<br />
Centre<br />
To Paisley,<br />
Gourock <strong>and</strong><br />
Irvine<br />
ROAD<br />
POINTHOUSE<br />
GOVAN ROAD<br />
WEST<br />
PAISLEY ROAD<br />
M8<br />
NCEFIELD QUAY<br />
LA<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
BROOMIELAW<br />
MORRISON STREET<br />
<strong>Central</strong><br />
Waterbus<br />
Terminal<br />
BRIDGE ST A77<br />
STREET<br />
CLYDE<br />
Queen St<br />
BALLATER STREET<br />
CALEDONIA ROAD<br />
High Street<br />
ON LOND ROAD<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
KING'S DR<br />
Bellgrove<br />
People’s<br />
Palace<br />
Bridgeton<br />
Bridgeton<br />
LONDON ROAD<br />
Celtic Park<br />
Stadium<br />
A74<br />
Parkhead<br />
Neptune’s Way Bridge <strong>and</strong> the Finnieston Crane, <strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Pollokshields East<br />
M74<br />
Oatl<strong>and</strong>s<br />
Dalmarnock<br />
ROAD<br />
LONDON<br />
A74<br />
GLASGOW ROAD<br />
Rutherglen<br />
M74<br />
Carmyle<br />
Carmyle<br />
LONDON ROAD<br />
M73<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
To Airdrie, Bathgate<br />
<strong>and</strong> Edinburgh<br />
Map 5<br />
To East Kilbride<br />
Category: Urban, riverside paths, 1 mile on-road section by<br />
Newton<br />
Distance: 12 miles/19 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 45 minutes<br />
Gradient: Mainly flat but hillier by Uddingston<br />
Surface: Mainly tarmac; also paved <strong>and</strong> dust sections<br />
Cross at<br />
second<br />
bridge<br />
Cambuslang<br />
<strong>West</strong>burn<br />
Newton<br />
Newton<br />
Uddingston<br />
Uddingston<br />
Bothwell<br />
Castle<br />
David<br />
Livingstone<br />
Centre<br />
NEW ROAD<br />
EDINBURGH<br />
For an exceptionally easy city ride, follow the River Clyde<br />
east from Bell’s Bridge on Route 75. Within minutes you’ll be<br />
cycling through leafy <strong>Glasgow</strong> Green where the People’s<br />
Palace is worth a detour for a coffee in a hot-house.<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
To Hamilton<br />
Blantyre<br />
Bridge<br />
The path then winds along the tree-lined banks of the River<br />
Clyde for about five miles. After passing under the new M74<br />
<strong>and</strong> Cambuslang Road, cross the Clyde near Carmyle <strong>and</strong><br />
continue on traffic-free paths <strong>and</strong> quiet roads to reach<br />
Uddingston. From Uddingston you can catch a train back to<br />
the city (or from any other stations on or near the route).<br />
0 1 2 3<br />
Kilometres<br />
11 12
Coatbridge to Hillend Reservoir 5<br />
Category:<br />
Distance:<br />
Time:<br />
Gradient:<br />
Surface:<br />
Urban <strong>and</strong> rural, canal towpath, railway path, short<br />
on-road sections<br />
11 miles/18 kilometres<br />
1 hour 35 minutes<br />
Flat after initial gradual climb<br />
Tarmac<br />
Start from Bargeddie station <strong>and</strong> follow the new alignment of<br />
Route 75 along the tree-lined towpath of the Monkl<strong>and</strong>s Canal.<br />
The canal disappears underground as it enters Coatbridge – look<br />
out for the ‘plug-hole’ sculpture. You will pass near Coatbridge<br />
<strong>Central</strong> station <strong>and</strong> onto Ellis Street. The route weaves its way<br />
eastwards on railway path <strong>and</strong> on some minor roads to Airdrie.<br />
The route used to follow a path along the old Airdrie to Bathgate<br />
Junction Railway line (built to supply the important 19th century<br />
iron <strong>and</strong> steel works at Monkl<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> closed in the 1980s).<br />
However, the path was closed in 2008 to allow the railway line to<br />
be reopened!<br />
Cyclist on the new path between Airdrie <strong>and</strong> Bathgate<br />
Caldercruix<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Hillend<br />
Reservoir<br />
Summerlee<br />
Heritage Park<br />
Airdrie<br />
Coatbridge<br />
Blairhill<br />
Coatbridge<br />
<strong>Central</strong><br />
Coatbridge<br />
Sunnyside<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A89<br />
Coatdyke<br />
A8010<br />
Airdrie<br />
Drumgelloch<br />
Map 6<br />
A89<br />
Bargeddie<br />
Kirkwood<br />
Kirkwood<br />
Whifflet<br />
Cairnhill<br />
Map 4<br />
A8<br />
Uddingston<br />
To Hamilton<br />
A12<br />
Uddingston<br />
B7001<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
2<br />
A replacement path has been constructed by Network Rail. The<br />
last section between Drumgelloch <strong>and</strong> Plains is due to open in<br />
2012 <strong>and</strong> will be on a shared-use pavement alongside the A89.<br />
East of Plains, most of the new route is on excellent tarmac path<br />
alongside the railway, with a short on-road section through<br />
Caldercruix. It takes you through open countryside to reach<br />
pretty Hillend Reservoir, which is ideal for a picnic. Either retrace<br />
your route or catch a train from Caldercruix to <strong>Glasgow</strong> or<br />
Edinburgh. You also have the option of continuing to Bathgate<br />
(see map 6).<br />
13<br />
1<br />
Kilometres<br />
3<br />
14
Hillend Reservoir to Bathgate 6<br />
Category: Rural, railway path<br />
Distance: 9 miles/15 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 20 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
Explore Scotl<strong>and</strong>’s central plateau on National Route 75. Like<br />
the route from Airdrie on map 5, this section used to be on a<br />
path along the disused Airdrie to Bathgate Junction Railway line.<br />
With the reopening of the railway in December 2010, a new, high<br />
quality tarmac path has been built which runs all the way to<br />
Bathgate. It is traffic-free apart from short sections on<br />
residential roads through Blackridge <strong>and</strong> as you come into<br />
Bathgate. Take care where the route crosses roads. The path<br />
passes over open country with the sculpture trail along the way<br />
reflecting the rich industrial <strong>and</strong> railway heritage of the area. The<br />
flat <strong>and</strong> safe terrain makes it ideal for all the family. You can<br />
catch a train to Edinburgh or to <strong>Glasgow</strong> <strong>and</strong> Helensburgh at<br />
any of the stations along the route.<br />
The Fibonacci Tower - one of several artworks along Route 75<br />
Bathgate<br />
Hillend Start/<br />
ReservoirFinish<br />
Ramp<br />
Bathgate<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Blackridge<br />
Armadale<br />
Airdrie & District Angling Club<br />
Open Daily 15 Mar - 6 Oct<br />
www.airdrie-angling.co.uk<br />
Map 5<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
2<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong> will be working with the local authorities over the next<br />
few years to make the route even better, including full signing,<br />
planting, seating <strong>and</strong> interpretation.<br />
15<br />
0 1 2<br />
Kilometres<br />
3<br />
16
Kelvingrove to Port Dundas 7<br />
Miles<br />
0<br />
0<br />
Kilometres<br />
1<br />
Summerston<br />
1<br />
Possil Marsh<br />
(SWT)<br />
Map 9 & 10<br />
Bishopbriggs<br />
Kelvin<br />
Way<br />
Maryhill<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
A81<br />
Summerston<br />
Stockingfield<br />
Junction - follow<br />
signs under canal<br />
Gilshochill<br />
A879<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
Category: Urban, riverside <strong>and</strong> canal paths<br />
Distance: 6 miles/10 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour<br />
Gradient: Flat along canal, apart from at<br />
Maryhill Locks; small inclines on<br />
Kelvin Way<br />
Surface:<br />
Kelvin Way is tarmac, canal<br />
towpath is whin dust surfaced<br />
Map 3<br />
B808<br />
Maryhill<br />
Kelvin<br />
Way<br />
Dowanhill<br />
Botanic<br />
Gardens<br />
QUEEN<br />
GREAT WESTERN RD<br />
Hillhead<br />
A82<br />
MARGARE DR<br />
T<br />
Kelvin<br />
Way<br />
B808<br />
Ruchill<br />
A81<br />
Possilpark<br />
<strong>and</strong> Parkhouse<br />
Partick<br />
Thistle F.C<br />
Firhill<br />
Spiers<br />
Wharf<br />
Port<br />
Dundas<br />
Ashfield<br />
For cyclists this scenic route is the ultimate way<br />
to see a quieter side of <strong>Glasgow</strong>. Start from the<br />
fabulous Kelvingrove Art Gallery to follow the<br />
River Kelvin walk <strong>and</strong> cycleway (signed)<br />
upstream through Kelvingrove Park. Continue<br />
for 2.5 miles <strong>and</strong> take a ramp on the right,<br />
signed Forth & Clyde Canal.<br />
Cycle uphill by the Maryhill flight of locks <strong>and</strong><br />
follow the towpath to Port Dundas for a<br />
stress-free ride. Enjoy wide ranging views over<br />
the city before reaching Speirs Wharf. From<br />
there, either retrace your route or take the<br />
zig-zag path down from the end of the canal,<br />
turn left onto the distinctive red route <strong>and</strong><br />
follow the signs into the centre of <strong>Glasgow</strong>.<br />
River Kelvin<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Kelvingrove<br />
Park<br />
A804<br />
M8<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A803<br />
A804<br />
17<br />
FERRY ROAD<br />
Kelvingrove<br />
Museum<br />
GARSCUBE<br />
ROAD<br />
Map 3 & 4<br />
18
Strathkelvin Railway Path 8<br />
Miles<br />
0 1 2<br />
0 1 2 3<br />
Kilometres<br />
Ballagan Glen (SWT)<br />
Strathblane<br />
A891<br />
Clachan of<br />
Campsie<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Strathkelvin<br />
Railway Path<br />
Cyclists on the Strathkelvin Way<br />
To Mugdock Country Park,<br />
Milngavie <strong>and</strong><br />
Kelvin Way<br />
Loch Ardinning (SWT)<br />
Craigend Muir<br />
A891<br />
Lennoxtown<br />
Hillsfoot<br />
Category: Mainly rural, urban sections, railway path, walkable<br />
on-road sections<br />
Distance: 10 miles/16 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac <strong>and</strong> whin dust<br />
Escape from the city on this tree <strong>and</strong> flower-lined path <strong>and</strong> head<br />
towards the dramatic Campsie Fells. From Lenzie station, turn<br />
left <strong>and</strong> take the first right onto Garngaber Avenue. Continue<br />
along the road for 800 yards or so <strong>and</strong> turn left onto the signed<br />
Strathkelvin Railway Path. (If you want to take the railway path<br />
south to Moodiesburn, continue through the traffic lights <strong>and</strong><br />
turn right onto the path.) Heading north towards Kirkintilloch take<br />
the left fork in the path to reach the B757. Turn right <strong>and</strong> follow<br />
the road for a short distance (or use the paths through the park)<br />
<strong>and</strong> turn left into Marina Way. Turn right, left <strong>and</strong> left again to<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
A81<br />
A879<br />
Buchley<br />
reach Southbank Marina, where you cross the canal on a<br />
spectacular prow-shaped bridge. Head east on the canal<br />
towpath, cross over Townhead road <strong>and</strong> after approximately 500<br />
Roman Fort <strong>and</strong><br />
yards follow the signs to the Strathkelvin course of Way. Take care<br />
Antonine Wall<br />
negotiating the roundabout just before you rejoin the path.<br />
Continue by Milton of Campsie where the path turns Bishopbriggs west <strong>and</strong><br />
runs parallel to the volcanically formed Campsie Hills before<br />
ending by the Kirkhouse Inn in Strathblane. You can retrace your<br />
Summerston<br />
Possil Marsh<br />
(SWT)<br />
Bishopbriggs<br />
ciencesteps or follow minor roads to Milngavie <strong>and</strong> join the Kelvin Way<br />
Park<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
(starts near Summerston the railway station) back to <strong>Glasgow</strong>.<br />
Maryhill<br />
Gilshochill<br />
Milton<br />
Note<br />
Stockingfield<br />
Junction- follow<br />
signs under canal<br />
The Kelvin Way from Milngavie to Maryhill is quite rough in parts.<br />
A803<br />
A807<br />
Torrance<br />
Glazert Water<br />
A803<br />
Map 9<br />
Gallowhill<br />
Auld Kirk<br />
Museum<br />
B757<br />
Marina<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Lenzie<br />
B757<br />
Lenzie<br />
Auchinloch<br />
Milton of<br />
Campsie<br />
B757<br />
A891<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
Kirkintilloch<br />
B819<br />
Muirhead<br />
Waterside<br />
A803<br />
Map 10<br />
Strathkelvin<br />
Way<br />
B8048<br />
B8023<br />
Twechar<br />
Moodiesburn<br />
A8<br />
l<strong>and</strong><br />
19<br />
Kelvinside<br />
Kelvin<br />
Way<br />
Maryhill<br />
B808<br />
Possilpark<br />
<strong>and</strong> Parkhouse<br />
Ruchill<br />
Ashfield<br />
Gartcosh<br />
20
Antonine Wall:<br />
Bearsden Bath-house<br />
Bearsden<br />
Miles<br />
Hillsfoot<br />
0 1<br />
Bowling to Kirkintilloch Buchley 9<br />
2<br />
Dalmuir<br />
A8014<br />
Clydebank<br />
B8055<br />
Start/Finish at<br />
Bowling. See map 3<br />
Drumry<br />
Whitecrook<br />
Yoker<br />
A814<br />
Yoker<br />
Drumchapel<br />
A82<br />
Drumchapel<br />
Knightswood<br />
<strong>West</strong>erton<br />
A809<br />
A739<br />
0<br />
Kilometres<br />
Science<br />
Park<br />
1 2<br />
Summerston<br />
Maryhill<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
Stockingfield<br />
Junction- follow<br />
signs under canal<br />
A81<br />
Summerston<br />
Gilshochill<br />
3<br />
Roman Fort <strong>and</strong><br />
course of<br />
Antonine Wall<br />
Possil Marsh<br />
(SWT)<br />
Route<br />
continues<br />
Milton<br />
below<br />
A879<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
Map 3<br />
Renfrew-Yoker Ferry<br />
Garscadden<br />
Scotstounhill<br />
Anniesl<strong>and</strong><br />
Kelvin<br />
Way<br />
Kelvinside<br />
Maryhill<br />
B808<br />
Possilpark<br />
<strong>and</strong> Parkhouse<br />
Ruchill<br />
Ashfield<br />
Be a considerate cyclist<br />
●●<br />
Avoid cycling where your tyres will damage the path<br />
or verges<br />
●●<br />
Give way to others on the towpath <strong>and</strong> warn them of<br />
your approach<br />
●●<br />
For more information contact British Waterways on<br />
01923 201120 or www.waterscape.com<br />
A807<br />
Torrance<br />
A803<br />
Map 8<br />
Kirkintilloch<br />
Auld Kirk<br />
Museum<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Marina<br />
Gallowhill Map 10<br />
oot<br />
Route<br />
ncecontinues<br />
rk<br />
Summerston<br />
Maryhill<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
River<br />
Kelvin<br />
Stockingfield<br />
Junction- follow<br />
signs under canal<br />
A81<br />
Summerston<br />
Gilshochill<br />
Buchley<br />
Roman Fort <strong>and</strong><br />
course of<br />
Antonine Wall<br />
Possil Marsh<br />
(SWT)<br />
Milton<br />
A879<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
A803<br />
Bishopbriggs<br />
Bishopbriggs<br />
Category: Urban, canal towpath<br />
Distance: 16 miles/26 kilometres<br />
Time: 2 hours 20 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac, whin dust<br />
Set sail on the world’s first sea to sea ship canal!<br />
The Forth & Clyde Canal was completed in 1790<br />
allowing vessels to cross Scotl<strong>and</strong> from the Clyde<br />
to the Forth at Grangemouth. The canal empties<br />
Auchinloch<br />
into the Clyde at the Bowling Basin where this<br />
excellent route starts (Bowling train station is<br />
nearby - see map 3).<br />
Cycle through Clydebank, where National Route 7<br />
leaves the canal, <strong>and</strong> follow the towpath effortlessly<br />
through <strong>Glasgow</strong> city. There are plenty of rail<br />
options to shorten the journey or you can continue<br />
through open countryside to Kirkintilloch (see map<br />
8 for Lenzie rail connection).<br />
B757<br />
Lenzie<br />
Lenzie<br />
21<br />
Kelvin<br />
Way<br />
Maryhill<br />
Map 7<br />
B808<br />
Possilpark<br />
<strong>and</strong> Parkhouse<br />
Ashfield<br />
22
Kirkintilloch to Falkirk 10<br />
Banton<br />
A803<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
0<br />
Kilometres<br />
1 2<br />
3<br />
2<br />
Kilsyth's<br />
Heritage<br />
A803<br />
Kilsyth<br />
Dullatur Marsh<br />
(SWT)<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
Antonine Wall:<br />
Castlecary To<br />
<strong>West</strong>erwood<br />
Airport<br />
Banknock<br />
Route<br />
continues<br />
below<br />
B816<br />
Milton of<br />
Campsie<br />
Strathkelvin<br />
Railway Path<br />
A891<br />
Map 8 & 9<br />
A803<br />
B8023<br />
Twechar<br />
Antonine Wall:<br />
Bar Hill Fort<br />
Auchinstarry<br />
B802<br />
Croy<br />
Croy<br />
Antonine Wall:<br />
Croy Hill<br />
Dullatur<br />
Antonine Wall:<br />
Dullatur<br />
Cumbernauld<br />
M80<br />
Cumbernauld<br />
Glen (SWT)<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
Kirkintilloch<br />
B8048<br />
B8048<br />
Category: Mainly rural, canal towpath<br />
Distance: 16 miles/26 kilometres<br />
Time: 2 hours 20 minutes<br />
Cumbernauld<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Whin dust, some tarmac<br />
Waterside<br />
Greenfaulds<br />
Lenzie<br />
B757<br />
M876<br />
A883<br />
Lenzie<br />
Bankhead<br />
A803<br />
Camelon<br />
loch<br />
B819<br />
Strathkelvin<br />
Way<br />
Moodiesburn<br />
A80<br />
M80<br />
A803<br />
Bonnybridge<br />
Rough<br />
Castle<br />
(Roman Fort)<br />
Falkirk<br />
Falkirk Wheel<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
r<br />
B757<br />
Route<br />
Banton<br />
continues<br />
Forth <strong>and</strong><br />
Clyde Canal<br />
Dullatur Marsh<br />
(SWT)<br />
Antonine Wall:<br />
Dullatur<br />
Cumbernauld<br />
M80<br />
Antonine Wall:<br />
Castlecary To<br />
<strong>West</strong>erwood<br />
Airport<br />
Cumbernauld<br />
Glen (SWT)<br />
A803<br />
Banknock<br />
B816<br />
Longcroft<br />
B816<br />
B816<br />
Union Canal<br />
To Edinburgh<br />
Cycle a delightful section of the Forth & Clyde Canal<br />
east of Kirkintilloch. There’s plenty to see en route <strong>and</strong><br />
in the warmer months it’s a wildlife haven. An optional<br />
start is from Lenzie train station (see map 8).<br />
Near Falkirk, the striking 35-metre high Falkirk Wheel<br />
links the Forth & Clyde with the Union Canal via a<br />
rotating caisson. Boat rides are available <strong>and</strong> there’s a<br />
visitor centre <strong>and</strong> café. Half a mile to the west of the<br />
Wheel <strong>and</strong> linked to it by footpaths, the Roman-built<br />
Antonine Wall can be visited at Rough Castle. Cycle<br />
uphill past the Wheel, through the tunnel to the Union<br />
Canal <strong>and</strong> continue to the signed Falkirk High station,<br />
where you can catch trains to Edinburgh or <strong>Glasgow</strong>.<br />
Falkirk<br />
High<br />
23 24
<strong>Glasgow</strong> to Paisley 11<br />
Category: Urban, riverside paths, parks <strong>and</strong> town road sections<br />
Distance: 9 miles/14 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 20 minutes<br />
Gradient: Mainly flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
Cycle to Paisley for a great day out! From <strong>Glasgow</strong> cross the<br />
Clyde on Bell’s Bridge, by the huge Finnieston Crane, to follow<br />
on-road <strong>and</strong> traffic-free cycle paths into Pollok Park.<br />
In this large city park you can visit the Burrell Collection with its<br />
extensive art <strong>and</strong> curios collection <strong>and</strong> excellent café. Also open<br />
to the public is the 18th century Pollok House, which has art<br />
works by El Greco <strong>and</strong> Murillo. Most of the remainder of the<br />
route to Paisley Canal station follows pleasant riverside paths by<br />
the White Cart Water. Crookston Castle <strong>and</strong> Paisley Abbey are<br />
also worth a visit.<br />
Miles<br />
0<br />
0<br />
Kilometres<br />
1<br />
1<br />
2<br />
3<br />
2<br />
Pollok House, <strong>Glasgow</strong> © Eamonn McGoldrick<br />
Map 3<br />
Transport<br />
Museum<br />
River Clyde<br />
Kelvingrove<br />
Park<br />
Map 4<br />
Exhibition Centre<br />
SECC<br />
Bell’s<br />
Bridge<br />
Map 12 &13<br />
Paisley Gilmour<br />
Street<br />
Paisley<br />
Abbey<br />
A761<br />
Oldhall<br />
Cardonald<br />
A761<br />
Ibrox<br />
Football<br />
Stadium<br />
Craigton<br />
Bellahouston<br />
Ibrox<br />
A8<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Science<br />
Centre<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A8<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
M8<br />
Paisley Canal<br />
Hawkhead<br />
Crookston<br />
Mosspark<br />
Drumbreck<br />
Pollokshields<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
B774<br />
Paisley<br />
A726<br />
White Cart<br />
Water<br />
Crookston<br />
Castle<br />
Corkerhill<br />
Mosspark<br />
M77<br />
Drumbreck<br />
B768<br />
Pollok Country<br />
Park<br />
Maxwell Park<br />
B768<br />
Crossmyloof<br />
Pollokshields<br />
<strong>West</strong><br />
B763<br />
Dykebar<br />
Hill<br />
A736<br />
Pollok<br />
Burrell Collection<br />
Pollok House<br />
B769<br />
Shawl<strong>and</strong>s<br />
Pollokshaws <strong>West</strong><br />
25<br />
26
Paisley to Gourock 12<br />
Miles<br />
0<br />
1<br />
2<br />
0 1 2<br />
Kilometres<br />
3<br />
Ferry to Dunoon<br />
Gourock<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Ferries to Kilcreggan <strong>and</strong> Helensburgh<br />
Drumfrochar<br />
Roman legion sculpture on the route<br />
Greenock Cut<br />
Devol<br />
Glen<br />
Greenock Cut<br />
Visitor Centre<br />
Clyde Muirshiel<br />
Regional Park<br />
Rough track<br />
Category: Mainly rural with urban section, railway<br />
path, on-road sections in Elderslie <strong>and</strong><br />
in Greenock <strong>and</strong> Gourock<br />
Distance: 21 miles/34 kilometres<br />
Time: 3 hours<br />
Gradient: Steady but easy incline from Linwood<br />
to above Port <strong>Glasgow</strong>. Steep descent<br />
<strong>and</strong> ascent at Devol Glen <strong>and</strong> descent<br />
into Greenock<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
Most of this route is on an old railway line, which<br />
passes through attractive open farml<strong>and</strong>. At a large<br />
sculpture near Johnstone, branch right, signed<br />
National Route 75 to Gourock.<br />
The character of this route changes as it enters<br />
Port <strong>Glasgow</strong> <strong>and</strong> traverses the hillside before a<br />
drop into Greenock. From there, enjoy the sea air<br />
as you cycle to Gourock <strong>and</strong> onward ferry options.<br />
27<br />
Map 13<br />
Paisley<br />
Paisley<br />
Paisley<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Map 11<br />
28
Paisley to Kilbirnie 13<br />
Category: Rural after initial urban section,<br />
railway path, short on-road sections<br />
in Elderslie <strong>and</strong> Kilbirnie<br />
Distance: 14 miles/23 kilometres<br />
Time: 2 hours<br />
Gradient: Flat, slight incline from Lochwinnoch<br />
to Kilbirnie<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
This section forms part of the Lochs <strong>and</strong> Glens<br />
Cycle Route, which runs from Carlisle to Inverness<br />
on National Route 7. Start from the platform of<br />
Paisley Canal station <strong>and</strong> at the path junction near<br />
Johnstone follow National Route 7 south on an<br />
idyllic old railway line that passes no less than<br />
three lochs.<br />
At Castle Semple Loch there’s a visitor centre <strong>and</strong><br />
café. Further along it’s worth the short detour on<br />
a purpose built cycle path to an RSPB centre for<br />
waterfowl viewing. Lochwinnoch train station is<br />
nearby if you want to shorten the ride. Otherwise<br />
continue on National Route 7 to Kilbirnie, which is<br />
close to Glengarnock station.<br />
Access gateway on the National Cycle Network<br />
Paisley<br />
Map 12 Map 11<br />
Paisley<br />
A761<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Clyde Muirshiel<br />
Regional Park<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
2<br />
Kilbirnie<br />
0 1 2<br />
Kilometres<br />
3<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
29<br />
Map14<br />
Longbar<br />
30
Lochwinnoch<br />
Paisley<br />
Ayrshire area<br />
Kilbirnie<br />
Barrhead<br />
Dalry<br />
Beith<br />
Kilbirnie to Irvine<br />
Irvine to Alloway<br />
<strong>West</strong> Kilbride to Irvine<br />
Irvine to Kilmarnock<br />
p34<br />
p36<br />
p38<br />
p40<br />
<strong>West</strong> Kilbride<br />
Ardrossan<br />
Kilwinning<br />
Irvine<br />
Kilmarnock<br />
Irvine Bay<br />
Dundonald<br />
Prestwick<br />
Troon<br />
On-road National Cycle Network section<br />
Traffic-free National Cycle Network section<br />
Other routes<br />
Time: The time given to complete a route is<br />
calculated on an average travelling time of 7 miles<br />
or 11 km per hour. This allows for a leisurely cycling<br />
pace or for plenty of stops. Times <strong>and</strong> distances<br />
given for linear routes are for one way only.<br />
Miles<br />
0<br />
2 4 6<br />
Ayr<br />
Alloway<br />
0 2 4 6 8 10<br />
Kilometres<br />
31<br />
32
Irvine<br />
B707<br />
Kilbirnie to Irvine 14<br />
To Lochwinnoch,<br />
Johnstone, Paisley<br />
<strong>and</strong> <strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Map13<br />
Kilbirnie<br />
Kilbirnie<br />
Loch<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Longbar<br />
Glengarnock<br />
B7 77<br />
B780<br />
A737<br />
B70 7<br />
A737<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
Dalry<br />
Dalry<br />
0 1 2 3<br />
Kilometres<br />
Ideal cycling country<br />
Blair<br />
Dalgarven<br />
Mill<br />
Category: Mainly rural, 25% traffic-free cycle path, 75% on-road<br />
Distance: 12 miles/20 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 50 minutes<br />
Gradient: Undulating to Kilwinning then flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
Map16<br />
A78(T)<br />
Kilwinning<br />
Kilwinning<br />
A738<br />
Abbey<br />
A737<br />
B778<br />
B7<br />
Eglinton Country Park<br />
For more information on<br />
the New Town Trail<br />
see www.ayrshirepaths.org.uk<br />
B785<br />
An enjoyable, mainly on-road section, which forms part of<br />
National Route 7. From Kilbirnie the route passes close to<br />
Glengarnock station before following a relatively quiet road for<br />
7 miles through the rural Garnock valley to reach Kilwinning,<br />
where the route becomes traffic-free again.<br />
Kilwinning Abbey makes a visit to this town worthwhile. Dating<br />
from 1187, the abbey played an important part in Scotl<strong>and</strong>’s<br />
religious life for 400 years.<br />
5 2<br />
B7<br />
Stevenston<br />
Stevenston<br />
B779<br />
Garnock<br />
Floods<br />
Nature<br />
Reserve<br />
A737<br />
New Town Trail<br />
A78(T)<br />
B7080<br />
Map17<br />
Continue on Route 7, passing a turn off for Route 73 to<br />
Ardrossan (see map 16) <strong>and</strong> the New Town Trail – a 12 mile<br />
traffic-free route around Irvine. Traffic-free paths lead easily to<br />
Irvine station, close to the Scottish Maritime Museum.<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
Irvine<br />
Irvine<br />
B7081<br />
A736<br />
To Kilmarnock<br />
Magnum<br />
Leisure<br />
Centre<br />
Beach<br />
Park<br />
Scottish<br />
Maritime<br />
Museum<br />
A737<br />
33<br />
To Troon,<br />
Prestwick,<br />
Ayr <strong>and</strong><br />
Carlisle<br />
B7080<br />
Map15<br />
34
A759<br />
A79<br />
A77<br />
Irvine<br />
A71<br />
Irvine to Alloway 15<br />
Irvine Beach<br />
Park<br />
A78(T)<br />
Map 14<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A737<br />
Gailes<br />
Marsh<br />
Wildlife<br />
Reserve<br />
Shewalton<br />
Wood<br />
Wildlife<br />
Reserve<br />
Map 17<br />
Irvine Bay<br />
Dundonald<br />
A759<br />
Barassie<br />
Troon<br />
A78(T)<br />
MAIN<br />
Marr<br />
College<br />
STREET<br />
Troon<br />
Prestwick beach © David Gold<br />
Royal Troon<br />
Golf Club<br />
A78(T)<br />
A78<br />
Miles<br />
0 1<br />
0 1 2<br />
Kilometres<br />
3<br />
2<br />
Prestwick<br />
Town<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Prestwick<br />
International<br />
Airport<br />
Monkton<br />
Category: Rural <strong>and</strong> urban, coastal, roadside paths,<br />
woodl<strong>and</strong> paths, promenades, local roads<br />
Distance: 22 miles/35 kilometres<br />
Time: 3 hours<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
Prestwick<br />
This long, open stretch by the Ayrshire coast is very<br />
enjoyable on a warm sunny day. If you’re lucky with the<br />
weather you should take the short detour signed south of<br />
Irvine for Beach Park.<br />
Citadel<br />
Leisure<br />
Centre<br />
Ayr<br />
Newton<br />
on Ayr<br />
Ayr<br />
After a paddle, continue south, through Shewalton Wood<br />
Wildlife Reserve, to Troon harbour. Then the route follows a<br />
great traffic-free cycle path by the railway line <strong>and</strong> Royal<br />
Troon golf course before a short on-road section leads into<br />
Ayr (train station).<br />
Continue south on Route 7. Two link paths provide a<br />
pleasant detour to Alloway <strong>and</strong> the Robert Burns National<br />
Heritage Park.<br />
Alloway<br />
Start/<br />
To Maybole, Glentrool,<br />
Newton Stewart <strong>and</strong><br />
Finish<br />
Dumfries<br />
35 1 36<br />
Burns Heritage Park
<strong>West</strong> Kilbride to Irvine 16<br />
<strong>West</strong> Kilbride<br />
<strong>West</strong> Kilbride<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A78<br />
Locally inspired artwork near Kilwinning<br />
Map 14<br />
To Kilbirnie,<br />
Lochwinnoch <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
A78<br />
Kilwinning<br />
Kilwinning<br />
A78<br />
Abbey<br />
Ferry to Arran<br />
Ardrossan<br />
Harbour<br />
Ardrossan<br />
Town<br />
Saltcoats<br />
A738<br />
Ardrossan<br />
South Beach<br />
Stevenston<br />
B752<br />
A78(T)<br />
Eglinton Country Park<br />
New Town Trail<br />
Ardrossan<br />
Saltcoats<br />
Stevenston<br />
Garnock<br />
Floods<br />
Nature<br />
Reserve<br />
B7080<br />
B779<br />
A78(T)<br />
Category:<br />
Distance:<br />
Time:<br />
Gradient:<br />
Surface:<br />
Coastal, rural <strong>and</strong> urban, traffic-free <strong>and</strong> on-road<br />
sections<br />
13 miles/21 kilometres<br />
1 hour 50 minutes<br />
Flat<br />
Tarmac<br />
Bogside<br />
Flats<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A737<br />
Irvine<br />
37<br />
This route gives quality cycling by a beautiful <strong>and</strong> open stretch of<br />
coast. From the outskirts of <strong>West</strong> Kilbride a cyclepath runs<br />
parallel to the A78 with stunning views of Arran’s ‘sleeping giant’<br />
profile. It’s possible to walk or cycle from <strong>West</strong> Kilbride train<br />
station to the start.<br />
After Ardrossan, follow National Route 73, passing golden<br />
beaches before heading inl<strong>and</strong>, with some road sections, to join<br />
Route 7. Then go south for Irvine (train station); or north for<br />
Kilwinning (train station). To continue on Route 73 to Kilmarnock,<br />
see map 17.<br />
Miles<br />
0<br />
0<br />
Kilometres<br />
Irvine Bay<br />
1<br />
1 2 3<br />
Map 15<br />
Magnum<br />
Leisure<br />
Centre<br />
Irvine<br />
Beach<br />
Park<br />
Scottish<br />
Maritime<br />
Museum<br />
Irvine<br />
A71<br />
Map 17<br />
Gailes Marsh<br />
Wildlife<br />
Reserve 38<br />
A71<br />
T)
A735<br />
Irvine to Kilmarnock<br />
17<br />
0<br />
1<br />
2<br />
Kilometres<br />
2 3<br />
Map 14<br />
bbey<br />
Eglinton Country Park<br />
For more information on<br />
the New Town Trail<br />
see www.ayrshirepaths.org.uk<br />
Gentle cycling around Irvine<br />
Map 16<br />
Garnock<br />
Floods<br />
Nature<br />
Reserve<br />
New Town Trail<br />
B7080<br />
Kilmaurs<br />
Kilmaurs<br />
B751<br />
B779<br />
A78(T)<br />
A737<br />
Bogside<br />
Flats<br />
Magnum<br />
Leisure<br />
Centre<br />
Irvine<br />
Beach<br />
Park<br />
Scottish<br />
Maritime<br />
Museum<br />
Irvine<br />
Irvine<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
A71<br />
A71<br />
A78(T)<br />
A71<br />
Dreghorn<br />
Springside<br />
A71<br />
B7081<br />
Knockentiber<br />
Crosshouse<br />
Kilmarnock<br />
Category: Urban <strong>and</strong> rural, riverside <strong>and</strong> railway paths,<br />
short on-road sections in Kilmarnock<br />
Distance: 8 miles/13 kilometres<br />
Time: 1 hour 10 minutes<br />
Gradient: Flat<br />
Surface: Tarmac<br />
A71<br />
Kilmarnock<br />
Start/<br />
Finish<br />
39<br />
Irvine<br />
Bay<br />
Gailes Marsh<br />
Wildlife<br />
Reserve<br />
Map 15<br />
A78(T)<br />
Shewalton<br />
Wood Wildlife<br />
Reserve<br />
To Troon,<br />
Prestwick, Ayr<br />
<strong>and</strong> Carlisle<br />
Enjoy a blissfully flat <strong>and</strong> almost entirely traffic-free cycle<br />
to Kilmarnock. This section follows Route 73, which is<br />
signed off Route 7 where it crosses the River Irvine.<br />
Cycle by the river to Dreghorn where John Boyd Dunlop,<br />
Dundonald<br />
inventor of the pneumatic tyre, was born in 1840.<br />
Thanks to him cycling is a cushioned affair compared<br />
to the prototypes of yesteryear. Continue through open<br />
country on the old railway path <strong>and</strong> follow the signs into<br />
Kilmarnock where there’s a train station, with links to the<br />
north <strong>and</strong> south.<br />
AYR RD<br />
40
National Cycle Network in Scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
From gentle rides along old railway lines, canal<br />
towpaths <strong>and</strong> quiet country routes over moorl<strong>and</strong>,<br />
mountain <strong>and</strong> forest terrain, cycling in Scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
has something for everyone.<br />
SHETLAND ISLANDS<br />
Unst<br />
This map shows the National Cycle Network<br />
routes in Scotl<strong>and</strong>. You may want to cycle part of<br />
them as a day trip or enjoy a longer cycle.<br />
See page 46 for a list of maps <strong>and</strong> guides<br />
available from <strong>Sustrans</strong>.<br />
1<br />
1<br />
Lerwick<br />
Sumburgh<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
1<br />
10<br />
<br />
<br />
41 42
About <strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong> makes smarter travel choices possible, desirable <strong>and</strong><br />
inevitable. We’re a leading UK charity enabling people to travel<br />
by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys we<br />
make every day. We work with families, communities, policymakers<br />
<strong>and</strong> partner organisations so that people are able to<br />
choose healthier, cleaner <strong>and</strong> cheaper journeys, with better<br />
places <strong>and</strong> spaces to move through <strong>and</strong> live in.<br />
It’s time we all began making smarter travel choices. Make your<br />
move <strong>and</strong> support <strong>Sustrans</strong> today. www.sustrans.org.uk<br />
We’d love you to help us.<br />
If you like the sound of what we do, please help us to improve<br />
cycling <strong>and</strong> walking for more people across the UK. By giving<br />
from £5 a month you’ll be making a difference: more paths to<br />
places you want to go <strong>and</strong> more projects to make local travel<br />
safer, healthier <strong>and</strong> greener for everyone.<br />
To become a <strong>Sustrans</strong> supporter today please complete the<br />
form on the opposite page <strong>and</strong> send it to:<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
Freepost BS7739<br />
Bristol<br />
BS1 5FA<br />
or call 0845 838 0651<br />
For more information on the National Cycle Network, to buy<br />
maps <strong>and</strong> guides or to find out more about <strong>Sustrans</strong>, visit<br />
www.sustrans.org.uk or call 0845 113 00 65<br />
Support <strong>Sustrans</strong> today<br />
Please complete this form <strong>and</strong> send it to:<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong>, Freepost BS7739, Bristol BS1 5FA.<br />
Alternatively, you can make a donation online by visiting<br />
www.sustrans.org.uk or over the phone on 0845 838 0651.<br />
First name<br />
Address<br />
Surname<br />
Postcode<br />
Telephone<br />
E-mail address<br />
Data protection: We’d like to keep you updated on <strong>Sustrans</strong>’<br />
activities <strong>and</strong> events by post, telephone <strong>and</strong>/or email. If you’d<br />
prefer not to receive details about our special appeals, please<br />
tick here Your details will not be shared with anyone else.<br />
How to donate: Choose your preferred donation method <strong>and</strong><br />
complete either section A or B <strong>and</strong> section C<br />
A<br />
YES<br />
I’ll join<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
with a<br />
Direct Debit<br />
B<br />
YES<br />
I’ll join<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
with a<br />
Donation<br />
Your monthly gift will provide us with vital<br />
regular income to help us develop the National<br />
Cycle Network for us all to enjoy.<br />
(Please tick) £5 £10 £15 £ other<br />
Please complete the Direct Debit instruction<br />
overleaf.<br />
(Please tick) £20 £30 £50 £ other<br />
Please enclose a cheque/PO/Charity Voucher<br />
payable to <strong>Sustrans</strong> <strong>and</strong> send this form to:<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong>, Freepost BS7739, Bristol BS1 5FA<br />
Please send me a pack on leaving a legacy<br />
to <strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
If you’d like to help <strong>Sustrans</strong> in a h<strong>and</strong>s-on way, why not<br />
become a volunteer ranger?<br />
As a <strong>Sustrans</strong> volunteer ranger you will help to look after <strong>and</strong><br />
promote a section of the National Cycle Network near your<br />
home, <strong>and</strong> so encourage more people to cycle <strong>and</strong> walk.<br />
To find how to become a volunteer ranger visit<br />
www.sustrans.org.uk/rangers<br />
43 44<br />
!<br />
C<br />
Gift Aid<br />
Make your<br />
support go<br />
further for free<br />
Use Gift Aid <strong>and</strong> you can make your donation<br />
worth even more. For every pound you give to<br />
us, we get an extra 25 pence from HMRC.<br />
So just tick here. It’s that simple.<br />
I am a UK taxpayer <strong>and</strong> I want all donations<br />
I’ve made to <strong>Sustrans</strong> in the last four years <strong>and</strong><br />
all donations in future to be treated as Gift Aid<br />
donations until I notify you otherwise. Note:<br />
You must pay an amount of UK income tax<br />
<strong>and</strong>/or capital gains tax for each tax year (6<br />
April one year to 5 April the next) that is at least<br />
equal to the amount of tax that the charity will<br />
reclaim on your gifts for the tax year (currently<br />
25 pence for every pound given).<br />
Registered Charity No. 326550 (Engl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Wales)<br />
SCO39263 (Scotl<strong>and</strong>)
Also available from <strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
Instruction to your Bank or Building Society to pay<br />
by Direct Debit<br />
Please fill in the whole form <strong>and</strong> send it to:<br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong>, Freepost BS7739, Bristol, BS1 5FA<br />
Name <strong>and</strong> full postal address of your Bank or Building Society<br />
To: The Manager<br />
Bank/Building Society<br />
Address<br />
Name(s) of Account Holder(s)<br />
Bank/Building Society account number<br />
Branch sort code<br />
Originator’s indentification number<br />
6 7 2 6 7 7<br />
Reference number<br />
Instruction to your Bank or Building Society<br />
Please pay <strong>Sustrans</strong> Direct Debits from the account detailed in<br />
this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct<br />
Debit Guarantee. I underst<strong>and</strong> that this instruction may remain<br />
with <strong>Sustrans</strong> <strong>and</strong>, if so, details will be passed electronically to<br />
my Bank or Building Society.<br />
Signature(s)<br />
Postcode<br />
To order maps <strong>and</strong> guides for stunning cycling <strong>and</strong> walking<br />
routes throughout Scotl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> the rest of the UK please call<br />
0845 113 00 65 or visit www.sustranshop.co.uk<br />
National Cycle Network<br />
Maps for Scotl<strong>and</strong>:<br />
Lochs & Glens Pack<br />
Covering National Route 7 between<br />
Inverness <strong>and</strong> Carlisle<br />
Code NNP01, £18.00<br />
Lochs & Glens South<br />
Carlisle to <strong>Glasgow</strong> via the Ayrshire coast<br />
Code NN7B, £6.99<br />
Lochs & Glens North<br />
Northern section of the Lochs <strong>and</strong> Glens cycle route<br />
between <strong>Glasgow</strong> <strong>and</strong> Inverness<br />
Code NN7C, £6.99<br />
Coast & Castles North<br />
Edinburgh to Aberdeen<br />
Code NN1D, £6.99<br />
Coast & Castles South<br />
Edinburgh to Newcastle<br />
Code NN1C, £6.99<br />
Salmon Run<br />
Dundee to Perth <strong>and</strong> Pitlochry plus five circular rides<br />
in the Tay Valley<br />
Code NN77, £3.99<br />
Oban to Campbeltown<br />
Code NN78, £3.99<br />
Aberdeen to Shetl<strong>and</strong> (2 map pack)<br />
Code NN1E, £8.99<br />
Forth & Clyde Cycle Routes<br />
Code NN75, £6.99<br />
Round the Forth<br />
Code NN76, £6.99<br />
Date<br />
Banks <strong>and</strong> Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit instructions<br />
for some types of account.<br />
!<br />
45<br />
46
Area covered by this booklet<br />
Tarbet<br />
Greenock<br />
Kilmacolm<br />
Lochwinnoch<br />
Dumbarton<br />
Clydebank<br />
Paisley<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Falkirk<br />
Airdrie<br />
Bathgate<br />
Ardrossan<br />
Kilwinning<br />
Irvine<br />
Kilmarnock<br />
Troon<br />
Ayr<br />
To find maps, route information <strong>and</strong> suggested routes<br />
from cyclists throughout Scotl<strong>and</strong> visit:<br />
www.routes2ride.org.uk/scotl<strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Sustrans</strong> <strong>and</strong> the National Cycle Network<br />
The routes in this book form part of the National Cycle<br />
Network, more than 13,000 miles of traffic-free paths,<br />
quiet lanes <strong>and</strong> on-road walking <strong>and</strong> cycling routes<br />
around the UK.<br />
The Network is coordinated by <strong>Sustrans</strong>, the charity that’s<br />
enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport<br />
for more of the journeys we make every day. Our work<br />
makes it possible for people to choose healthier, cleaner<br />
<strong>and</strong> cheaper journeys, with better places <strong>and</strong> spaces to<br />
move through <strong>and</strong> live in.<br />
It’s time we all began making smarter travel choices.<br />
Make your move <strong>and</strong> support <strong>Sustrans</strong> today.<br />
www.sustrans.org.uk<br />
0845 838 0651<br />
Registered Charity No. 326550 (Engl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Wales) SC039263 (Scotl<strong>and</strong>)<br />
Front cover: Roman legion on Route 75 © <strong>Sustrans</strong><br />
This booklet has been produced<br />
with the support of the Scottish Goverment<br />
Second edition 2012