Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park: Castle Semple Centre

Overview

All Visitor Centres have FREE parking and entry, sign posted woodland walks and nature trails. Easy wildlife watching, indoor and outdoor attractions, cafes, gift shops and a Ranger Service.

Castle Semple Centre, on the scenic shores of Castle Semple Loch in Lochwinnoch is on sustrans cycle route 7 from Paisley/Glasgow to/from Irvine and only 1 mile from Lochwinnoch Railway Station.

There is seasonal aqua trike, row boat and mountain bike hire as well as walks in Parkhill Wood, the designed landscape woodlands of the Semple Clan. Ask the Castle Semple Rangers about the Parkhill Challenge - a treasure-hunt style activity suitable for all the family.

The Centre is recognised by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority to deliver water sports such as RYA sailing and power boating, BCU kayaking and canoeing. Other courses and group taster sessions include trail biking, archery, navigation and raft building.

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, only 4 miles from Lochwinnoch is in the heart of the Regional Park with easy access to great walking country. The wonderful scenery includes the heather hills of Misty Law and Hill of Stake (522m) or moorland views and walks to the now disused Barytes mine. The child friendly walk to the volcanic plug of Windy Hill (316m) has great views over the Clyde and towards Glasgow. Or stay in the forest and woodlands on the sign posted 2km (1 hour) country, 1km (20 min) habitat or 500m (20 min) waterfall nature trail.

The heather moors are home to one of Britains rarest Birds of Prey, the Hen Harrier. In partnership with RSPB, SNH and Clyde Muirshiel these birds can be seen live on CCTV throughout the season (May - Aug approx.) Highlights, including childrens activities can be seen throughout the year. Contact the Muirshiel on 01505 842803 for details.

Cornalees Visitor Centre, at Loch Thom not far from Inverkip in Inverclyde provides wonderful walks, scenic views and picnic sites. There is a good access point to the Greenock Cut (a 5.5 mile aqueduct, and designated ancient monument) for a great reasonably level circular-walking route with panoramic views of the Clyde.

Shorter walks include the special needs friendly 300 meter mini trail or the 2.5 km (1 hour) nature trail in Shielhill Glen.

The Centre is open all year with events, exhibitions, a FREE Kids Entertainment Corner with environmental education activities such as word searches, animals and colouring in. Contact the Cornalees on 01475 521129 for details.