Strathclyde and Ayrshire: what to see
Enjoy the outdoors even in winter. Pick a destination with plenty to see and the weather won’t matter so much.
Ayrshire's coast
The Ayrshire Coastal Path runs for 100 miles from Glenapp in the South to Skelmorlie in the North. Its route includes magnificent scenery, special wildlife, protected sites - including some of Western Scotland’s best sand dunes - and some of the most unusual geology in the country. The towns and villages along the way offer opportunities to try watersports and learn more about the history of the area.
The Interpreting Ayrshire's Coast project installed signage along the route in South Ayrshire, look out for the green signs which have lots of information and fun facts about the local area.
Wildlife
Discover Ailsa Craig and its stunning colonies of seabirds, especially gannets and the ever popular puffins.
The Firth of Clyde is home to marine mammals such as porpoises, seals and even the occasional whale. The world’s second largest fish the basing shark can also be spotted in the waters off the Ayrshire coast.
On land keep your eyes open for rare plants, flowers and insects as well as foxes, otters and deer.
You may also spot Irvine to Girvan Nectar Network interpretation boards which will tell you more about the wildlife in the more remote stretches of the trail.
Common seal (phocia vitulina)
Sand Dunes
Ayrshire is home to some nationally important sand dune systems at Turnberry and Troon. Work is also ongoing along the beaches of South Ayrshire to restore dunes which have been lost, using old Christmas trees to help build the sand back up. This will bring benefits for wildlife and also help protect our coastal areas against flooding and erosion.
Beach near West Kilbride, Ayrshire Coast.
Geology
The Ayrshire coast is home to some unusual and special geology. The rocks are some of the oldest in Scotland and are evidence of a great sea which existed around 500 million years ago. Rare gemstones and fossils can be found on the beaches, while Ailsa Craig granite is still used to make curling stones. Look out for pillow lava formations, formed when there were still active volcanoes in the area.
Biosphere
The Southern section of the route is located in the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, recognised internationally as a world class environment for people and nature.
The UNESCO Biosphere designation is recognition of the fantastic array of landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities that South West Scotland offers for communities, businesses and visitors to experience and celebrate in a sustainable way.
Green Health
Green Health and Blue Health is about supporting a healthy lifestyle by integrating nature into your day. Simple activities connecting you with nature on your doorstep can benefit your mental and physical wellbeing.
Each of the panels has a QR code link to the South Ayrshire Green Health Calendar, where you can access seasonal suggestions to refresh tiring spirits, brighten grey days and help you build nature connections into your life. Every month, there’s something for the young and the young-at-heart - a location to visit in South Ayrshire, a home-based activity and a fresh way for families to play outdoors.
Baron’s Haugh RSPB reserve, Motherwell
Winter is a great time to visit Baron’s Haugh RSPB reserve, as flocks of wintering ducks such as wigeon and whooper swan join the resident bird life. They come to feed on the flooded meadows in the reserve.
See what you can spot from one of four bird hides overlooking the Haugh (wetland) or take a walk through the woods. Otters and kingfishers are sometimes seen by the River Clyde.
Motherwell lies to the north of the reserve and the River Clyde to the south. It’s easy to get to Baron’s Haugh using public transport, and you can see a wide variety of habitats and wildlife within a relatively small area.
Eglinton Country Park, Irvine
Eglinton Country Park is a good place to walk, horse ride, fish or just relax. Rain or shine, you can explore the parkland paths, riverside walkways, woodland, open hill or loch shore. Or find your way to the special viewpoint.
The ranger service runs events throughout the year, and there’s an all-ability play area near the visitor centre. Electric scooters and special needs bikes can be hired free of charge. To book in advance, call 01294 551 776.
Pollok Country Park, Glasgow
Pollok Country Park is rich in wildlife and history. Enjoy a walk through its extensive woodlands and gardens. In winter, watch out for large flocks of redwing in search of berries.
You may spot a roe deer in the woods or a kingfisher on the river. If not, you’re guaranteed to see birds flock to the feeding station in the Old Stable Courtyard.
Other attractions include:
- Pollok House
- the world-famous Burrell Collection
- working Clydesdale horses
- an award-winning herd of Highland cattle
Last updated:
