Five outdoor activities to enjoy in Ayrshire

Much of the country is opening back up for business following the latest easing of coronavirus restrictions – including organised outdoor activity.

These changes, along with the approaching summer season, mean many people are starting to get back to the great outdoors.

From pony trekking to tree-top adventures, Ayrshire has its fair share of outdoor activities which can be enjoyed by groups of up to six from six households.

These activities are the perfect way to get back out and about – enjoying some of Ayrshire’s finest sights in the process.

Tree Top Trials – Kilmarnock

Cumnock Chronicle: Tree Top Trials – KilmarnockTree Top Trials – Kilmarnock

With various courses to choose from, the Tree Top Trials at Craufurdland Estate have something for everyone.

The highwire obstacle courses are set at different heights, with three experiences specifically designed for certain age groups: the Explorer, the Pioneer and the Hero.

The Explorer is suitable for children aged five and over and takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete.

The Pioneer lasts around two hours and is targeted at nine to 12-year-olds.

The Hero is for those over the age of 13, taking three hours to cover six zones.

The activities are by booking only, with more sessions having been added to each of the experiences.

Booking must be complete by 8pm the night before the session. More information is available here

Cairnhouse Stables – Arran

Cairnhouse Stables offers horse riding and pony trekking for novices and experienced riders.

The centre is situated in Blackwaterfoot on the Isle of Arran.

The routes used for trekking are made up of private farm tracks, hills and beaches to suit all abilities.

As well as treks and hacks, private lessons are also available at the centre. Find out more here.

Footgolf – Kilmarnock

Go Golf’s footgolf courses at Auchenharvie and Routenburn provide the perfect opportunity to combine two sports into a fun family day out.

Footgolf sees participants take to the greens in an attempt to kick a football into specially designed holes.

Juniors pay £5 per round at Routenburn, with a cost of £7 for adults.

A round of the Auchenharvie course costs £3 for juniors and £5 for adults.

Footballs can be hired at both sites with a refundable deposit. Find more here.

Adventure Carrick – Girvan

Cumnock Chronicle: Adventure Carrick – GirvanAdventure Carrick – Girvan

Whether you enjoy getting out on the water or prefer keeping your feet on the ground, Adventure Carrick has an activity for you.

Watersport sessions include paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking on the coast, along rivers or in fresh water lochs.

As well as this, Adventure Carrick offer mountain biking and hill walking sessions.

Forest activities also provide the opportunity for visitors to learn about foraging, fire making and shelter building.

Due to COVID-19, new procedures have been adopted with the company implementing an ‘Enquire Now’ system for customers. More details can be found here

Blackstone Clydesdales

Based on a family run estate, Blackstone Clydesdales offers beach rides, carriage driving experiences and walking farm tours.

The family aim to share their knowledge of the Clydesdale Heavy horses with visitors, welcoming both those with a passion for the animals and those who are new to them.

For the time being, riding experiences have been restricted to experienced riders, with activities for beginner and novice guests returning soon.

Queries about dates of experiences and booking can be sent to bookings@clydesdale.co.uk.