Starting
from the Cross in the historic centre of Dalry. The 50m spire of St Margaret's
Church dominates the scene. Other buildings include the crow-stepped bank,
the library in the former town hall and the Trinity Church. Most date
from the 1850's. The granite Biggart Fountain is also worth noting.
Continue into North Street, cross Roche Way, walk along James Street and
take the first right on to the West Kilbride road - turning right into
Wingfaulds Road at the cemetery.
Beyond the houses on the left the route follows a pleasant country road
gradually uphill. As you continue on the right is Broadlie House, one
of the first in Ayrshire to generate electricity for its own lighting
in 1892. Past Meikle Broadlie on the left is a farm gate leading onto
the Velvet Path Walk. Continue until you meet the public road and turn
right to pass Baidland Mill. At the T-junction turn left up the hill towards
Baidlandhill Farm visible at the top. The views develop as you climb above
the town and the valley beyond. Continue past Cubeside farm that sits
on either side of the road. Beyond the entrance to Ward Farm is the final
road section to Baidlandhill Farm. Rest a while and take in the panoramic
views of the valley. You can also see the coastal towns of Irvine and
Troon beyond.
Climb the stiles just before Baidlandhill Farm. The views of the Firth
of Clyde are impressive and a short detour up to the masts will give an
even greater panorama. Follow the track into a conifer forest and out
of it again to the remote homestead of Wardlaw. Continue the descent turning
left on the public road to pass Auldmuir and Baidland Mains before re-entering
the Velvet Path to retrace your route to Dalry. Alternatively return by
second part of the Velvet Path Walk.
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