Lochwinnoch Loop Line

This multi-use path forms part of the Lochs and Glens Cycle Route, which is in turn part of National Route 7. It starts at Paisley Canal railway station and follows the same route as National Route 75 until Johnstone, passing Elderslie, birthplace of William Wallace.
From there the railway path continues south-west to Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch and Kilbirnie, passing by Castle Semple, Barr and Kilbirnie Lochs. Castle Semple Loch is a nationally recognised site for wild birds and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. A short detour from Lochwinnoch (head towards the railway station) takes you to the RSPB visitor centre, where there are viewing hides.
The Castle Semple Visitor Centre is an excellent location for water sports, walks, cycling and picnics. Boats and mountain bikes are available for hire. Following the line of a discussed railway, the path is traffic-free except for short sections through Elderslie and Lochwinnoch.
There is wheelchair access to the whole route. You can catch the train back at several points along the route - Kilbirnie is served by Glengarnock station.
Natural attractions:
- Castle Semple Loch
- Barr Loch
- Kilbirnie Loch
- Castle Semple Country Park
- Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
Visitor attractions:
- Paisley Abbey
- Paisley Art Gallery and Museum
- William Wallace Memorial
- Weaver’s Cottage
- Castle Semple Collegiate Church
- RSPB Nature Centre
- Castle Semple Visitor Centre
Route submitted by: Sustrans
Tags
Route map
Comments
Key route details
- Region/Area:
Southern Scotland
- Distance:
14 miles
- Time needed:
1 ½ - 3 hours
- Classification:
Easy
- Traffic:
Traffic-free
- Surface:
Tarmac
- NCN Route:
National Route 7 and National Route 75
- Start:
Paisley Canal Railway Station
- Finish:
Kilbirnie
- Access:
Train stations at Paisley Canal, Johnstone, Howwood, Lochwinnoch and Glengarnock.
- Maps and guides
-
Lochs and Glens South NN7B £6.99
Lochs and Glens Sustrans Official Guidebook RB28 £6.99
- Links with:
Garnock Valley Cycleway and Paisley & Clyde Railway.
- Weather:
-
Sat
max: 5°C min: -1°C
-
Sun
max: 6°C min: -1°C
-
Mon
max: 7°C min: -5°C
-
Tue
max: 5°C min: -4°C
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