Routes
Since November 2022 the bridge leading onto Stevenston Beach has been closed due to damage caused by high tides.
Walkers heading north towards Saltcoats should cross the smaller bridge at the end of the car park to use the cycle track behind the sand dunes to reach Saltcoats.
Walkers heading south from Saltcoats should walk along the cycle path behind the sand dunes to reach Stevenston, rather than going down the ramp onto the beach.
The information we have received from North Ayrshire Council is that the bridge is likely to be closed long-term whilst funding is sourced to have it repaired.
In the meantime please follow Ayrshire Coastal Path signage along the diversion route, shown on the interactive map above in Red.
6.5 miles (10.5km) / 3hrs
Moderate/difficult
Terrain - Sandy and rocky outcrops, 100m ascent on old coach road, farm track, rocky shore, trunk road pavement, promenade. Sensitive livestock area - lambing and calving. Dogs not advised unless on close lead.
Highlights - The Russian Cruiser Varyag monument. Closest views of Ailsa Craig. High-level panoramas of Firth of Clyde.
We strongly advise the purchase of the Official Guidebook for a detailed description and map of the route as well as insightful information about the history, geography and natural history of the region.
We also advise the purchase of OS Explorer Map 317
Car parking
Lendalfoot - Varyag Memorial (KA26 0JG)
Girvan - Beach car park (KA26 9AG) or Ainslie car park (KA26 0HW) located at southern end of Girvan
Bus
Local bus service from Ayr/Girvan/Stranraer connects Lendalfoot and Girvan.
Service every 2-3hrs.
Note that the bus stop in Lendalfoot is unmarked. It is called “Telephone Exchange” and is just over half a mile walk from the Varyag Memorial car park.
Train
Girvan train station is approx 10 mins walk from the bus stops for onwards travel to Lendalfoot.
Shipwreck memorial
Penbain Hill 18th century coach road
Seabirds, Seals, Basking Sharks, coastal and upland flora. Coastal Geology.
