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South End
Where we are
Latest forest information
Open water
- This destination contains areas of open water which can be hazardous if you are not suitably prepared. Follow our water safety advice and take care.
About
Explore the South End and enjoy scenic views, mixed woodland and the tallest double waterfall in Arran. This is great habitat for native red squirrels and one of the best places on the island to catch sight of them. The forest is full of ancient sites, including unusual horned chambered cairns, standing stones and an iron age hill fort.
There are several ways to get into the forest. The most popular is the Glenashdale forest entrance in Whiting Bay; this route leads to the spectacular Glenashdale Falls and the neolithic Giants' Graves.
You can also take trails from near Kildonan to Loch Garbad, and from near Kilmory to the Aucheleffan standing stones and Carn Ban chambered cairn.
The Dyemill to Kilmory cycle route runs through the whole of the South End as well as neighbouring Dyemill forest. It starts near Lamlash and follows peaceful forest roads with some great viewpoints on the way.
Not all routes in the forest are waymarked, so bring a map and compass if you want to explore further.
A waterfall, a peaceful loch and lots of prehistoric sites
The South End Forest covers much of the south east of Arran. It’s the largest area of native woodland on the island and supports many different trees, plants and wildlife, including a healthy population of red squirrels.
There are long and short waymarked trails to interesting forest places, including a waterfall viewing platform, a peaceful loch and a range of prehistoric sites. Many of the trails have superb sea views.
Walking trails
Glenashdale (South End) route card (PDF)
Walking
Glenashdale Falls Trail
Follow Glenashdale Burn up to the startling rocky cauldron that holds Glenashdale Falls, and return to Whiting Bay via an impressive Iron Age fort.
Uneven gravel and earth surface, with some rough rocky and muddy sections. Several steep slopes and some steps. Includes a narrow gap, several bridges and a section along the road.
2 ¾ miles / 4.6 km
Allow 1 ½ hours
More information
Start at the Glenashdale forest entrance in Whiting Bay, ¼ mile (0.5 km) from the Ashdale Bridge car parks.
Walking
Giants' Graves Trail
A stiff climb to the remarkable prehistoric chambered cairns at Giants’ Graves, revealing wonderful views over Whiting Bay.
Long steep slope for 600m. Mostly firm gravel and earth surface. Some rough and potentially muddy sections with exposed tree roots. Includes some bridges and steps.
3 miles / 5.0 km
Allow 2 hours
More information
People once believed that giants buried their victims here. Today we think these unusual horned chambered cairns were built by Stone Age people for ceremonies. You'll enjoy the same sensational views as they did over 5000 years ago.
Start at the Glenashdale forest entrance in Whiting Bay, ¼ mile (0.5 km) from Ashdale Bridge car park.
Walking
Loch Garbad Trail
Climb through the forest above the stunning Eas Mor waterfall to reach an enchanting loch in the hills.
Uneven earth and rock surface, with several muddy sections. Long fairly steep slopes. Crosses one shallow ford and has low overhanging branches.
3 miles / 5.0 km
Allow 2 hours
More information
Start from Eas Mor car park, at the junction of the A841 and the minor road to Kildonan, to the west of the village. It is maintained by volunteers from Eas Mor Ecology.
Cycling trails
Cycling
Dyemill to Kilmory Cycle Route
A fabulous forest cycle route with wildlife, waterfalls and views to Goatfell and Ireland.
9 ¼ miles / 15.0 km
Allow 2 hours
More information
Stay on the forest roads or make a longer circular route by returning on The Ross, a minor public road between Lamlash and Kilmory. The route includes short detours to Glenashdale Falls, Meallach's Grave and other archaeological features as well as open views to Goatfell, Holy Isle and even Ireland on a clear day.
Start from Dyemill forest car park or the Aucheleffan forest entrance, one mile / 1.6 km east of Kilmory. You can also start or exit at Whiting Bay.
Terrain description
Working forest road with some steep climbs and loose surfaces. Minor public road with one steep climb. Mountain bikes are recommended for the forest section.
Facilities and access
There are public toilets and places to eat in Whiting Bay. Kilmory village hall also has toilets.
Car parking information
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Getting here
Travel by ferry from Ardrossan in North Ayrshire to Brodick and then follow the A841 south for 8 miles (12.8 km) to Whiting Bay. Leave your car in one of the council car parks at Ashdale Bridge, at the southern end of the village.
Cross the road to the Forestry Commission sign at the start of a narrow lane. The Glenashdale forest entrance is ¼ mile (0.5 km) along the lane at grid reference NS 042 252.
Alternatively, continue west on the A841 towards Kilmory for another 7½ miles (12 km). One mile (1.6 km) east of the village you'll see a blue sign for the Dyemill Cycle Route. Turn right here and continue on a dirt track for one mile (1.6 km). There's informal parking at the Aucheleffan forest entrance, grid reference NR 974 220.
Using SatNav?
KA27 8QX is the nearest postcode to the Glenashdale forest entrance.
KA27 8PH is the nearest postcode for the Aucheleffan forest entrance.
Public transport
There are bus stops in Whiting Bay and Kilmory. You'll find timetable details at Traveline Scotland.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
Phone
0300 067 6900 (option 2)
Nearby forests
Burnside trails, gentle waterfalls, and a climb to lonely Urie Loch
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Dyemill': 3.31 miles
Start exploring Arran, with cairns, standing stones and lots of red squirrels
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Glenrickard': 5.24 miles
Explore the castle grounds and forests with views over Brodick Bay
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Brodick Castle': 7.92 miles
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