Doune - 26 September
A shorter than usual journey took St Leonards Ramblers to the start of their most recent walks. This saw them have morning coffee etc. in Doune’s Woodside Hotel from which the Low walkers set out on their 7 mile circular walk. Their route took in a stretch of the north bank of the River Teith before heading north to Buchany and on to lunch at the Scottish Arts and Antique Centre. Knowing that the High walkers route was over 10 miles, the low group took advantage of their estimated earlier finishing time by extending their lunch stop to give time to explore the Antiques Centre and in some cases, make a modest purchase or two. Leaving the Centre, the walk continued northwards and upwards towards Waterston Wood where they turned south through Black Park and back to Doune and the Woodside Hotel where the coach awaited.
The High walkers group had begun their trek just west of Doune at Kirkton and headed north to climb up and over the Braes of Doune, through High Wood and past Loch Mahaick to Severie Cottage. Here they turned South east and travelled over muddy open ground for about 3 miles before crossing Ardoch Burn at Wester Bows and continuing past Judge’s Cairn to Dalbrack where they turned south and made their way to the Red Kite Centre. From here, a further 2 miles or so saw them enter Doune and make their way through the town to the waiting coach a mere 10 minutes after the arrival of the low walkers.
After changing out of their walking gear, everyone boarded the coach for the short trip to Bridge of Allan where some social time was spent before the journey home to East Kilbride.