From
the car park cross Oswald's Bridge. It may be rewarding to spend a moment
at the bridge as views along the river can include sights of dippers, herons
and duck. From the gate on the left the route follows the edge of the field
to the top corner of the Tree Green Knights' field with its panoramic view.
Passing
through Pheasant Nook Wood the path eventually follows the route of the
old waggonway which was constructed in the 19th century. It served pits
along the route and transported coal in wagons pulled initially by horses
and later locomotives to Ayr harbour. The remains of the support pillars
spanning the river can still be seen.The route now lies through Craighall Wood, eventually reaching "Wallace's Seat", a promontory overlooking the river. This was once the haunt of William Wallace of "Braveheart" fame who reputedly sate here contemplating the battles with the English. He also took refuge in the nearby Leglen Wood after the burning of the Barns of Ayr. There is a monument to Wallace in the wood beside Oswald's Bridge. Leaving the woods follow the track over Loudon Law and enjoy the pleasant pastoral views and ambience of the rural setting. |