Harelaw Dam, Long Loch and James's Hill
Explore great views over lochs and dams, in the countryside above Neilston
Two walks with different start points and great views over lochs and dams, Ayrshire, Arran and the hills to the north.
About the route
| Distance | Both walks are around 3 miles out and back |
| Time | 1.5 hours each |
| Start/Finish | Harelaw Road and the B769 Stewarton Road |
| Grade | Moderate |
| Local Shops | Neilston |
Download a map of the route with directions (PDF, 1 MB)
Please remember when you are enjoying the outdoors, you must follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Watch a video of the route
Directions
Walk 1
Lochend Hill and Long Loch
Start from the car park on Harelaw Road (Alternatively you can walk from Neilston taking the track that runs east of Neilston Pad). Walk up Harelaw Road past Harelaw Dam and just after a farm on the left climb the stile at the sign which says 'footpath no dogs'. Follow the track through gates and a small section of woods to Harelaw Dam.
The track continues uphill and then down to Long Loch. Alternatively you can climb to a small cairn at the top of Lochend Hill for great views of Neilston Pad and the hills to the north. Return by the same route.
Walk 2
Middleton wind farm and James's Hill
Start from the entrance to Middleton wind farm on the B769 Stewarton Road. There is no car park or vehicle access to the wind farm. Follow the track and at the junction take the track to the left. After a short walk climb up behind the wind turbine to the triangulation pillar at top of James's Hill. Return to the track and follow it on to a viewpoint over Long Loch with views to the Arran Hills. A short distance on past the next turbine there is a small cairn with views of Neilston Pad and the hills to the north.
Return to the track and follow it back to the junction.
Take the track to the left and follow it past Dod Hill and through a gate to the last turbine. Return by the same route.
