Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park : Muirshiel Centre

Overview

A Great Escape for a healthy family fun day out or outdoor activities in Scotlands largest Regional Park.

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

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, only 4 miles from Lochwinnoch is located high in the heart of the Regional Park. The wonderful scenery includes the high 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. Thanks to a partnership project with RSPB, SNH and Clyde Muirshiel these wild birds can be seen live on CCTV in the centre throughout the breeding season (May Aug approx.) Highlights, including childrens activities can be seen throughout the year. Contact the Muirshiel Rangers on 01505 842 803 for details.

Castle Semple Centre, on the scenic shores of Castle Semple Loch in Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire provides the gateway to Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. The Centre is on sustrans cycle route 7 from Paisley/Glasgow to/from Irvine and only 1 mile form 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 outdoor adventure activity courses and group taster sessions include mountain biking, archery, navigation and raft building. Contact the Senior Instructor on 01505 842 882 for details.

Cornalees Visitor Centre, at Loch Thom in Inverclyde provides wonderful walks, scenic views and picnic sites. There is a good access point to the Greenock Cut (5.5 mile aqueduct, and designated ancient monument) for a great reasonably level circular-walking route with panoramic views of the Clyde and islands.

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, and a FREE Kids Entertainment Corner