Interpreting 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.

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.

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.

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 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.