Barr Trails

Barr Trails
About Walk Facilities and access Directions Contact Nearby forests
Where we are

Latest forest information

24 January 2024: The Fairy Knowe Trail is currently closed while our staff assess and clear the damage caused by the recent adverse weather conditions.  

About

Miles of trails that criss-cross through beautiful countryside

You could happily spend a week’s holiday exploring the countryside around the remote Ayrshire village of Barr. Nearly 20 miles (32 km) of paths criss-cross the rolling countryside through forest, along riversides and across open hills.

The trails here cross land belonging to other individuals and organisations as well as Forestry and Land Scotland. You’re sure to enjoy them all.

Walking trails

Walking

Fairy Knowe Trail (closed)

A trail notice is in effect

24 January 2024: The Fairy Knowe Trail is currently closed while our staff assess and clear the damage caused by the recent adverse weather conditions. 

Climb through the eerie spruce trees to emerge above the Fairy Knowe and a rushing waterfall for some magical views over the forest to Haggis Hill.

Uneven grassy paths with narrow, muddy and rough sections. Some steep slopes and a long flight of steps for 100m. Includes some bridges and wide gates.
Strenuous trail grade icon
3 ½ miles / 5.7 km

Allow
2½ hours

More information

The Fairy Knowe is a delightful spot on the burn: rest here and admire the water rushing through a spectacular cleft in the hills.

Facilities and access

Walking
Walking
Parking icon
Parking
Cycling
Cycling
Picnic area
Picnic area

You’ll find places to eat in Barr village.

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.

More about parking

Getting here

To reach the forest car park, take the single track road from the Kings Hotel in Barr village, following the Water of the Gregg. Pass the village school and continue for about ½ mile (800 metres), then turn left at the first fork to reach the car park.

Using SatNav?

Nearest postcode: KA26 9TN

Get directions

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Email
enquiries.south@forestryandland.gov.scot
Phone
0300 067 6900 (option 2)
More contact information

Nearby forests

A picnic table on a grassy ledge overlooking a loch

1
Carrick Forest Drive

Discover Ayrshire's finest mountain scenery by car

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Wildlife hide
Wildlife hide
Forest drive
Forest drive
Play area
Play area
Fishing
Fishing
Picnic area
Picnic area
Ancient monument
Ancient monument
Distance from 'Barr Trails': 4.39 miles
A moss covered tree next to a path that leads to a stone monument

2
Bruce’s Stone, Loch Trool

Short walk to one of Scotland's most beautiful views

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Parking icon
Parking
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Distance from 'Barr Trails': 9.75 miles
Couple and dog walking through woods besides river in winter

3
Glentrool Visitor Centre

Woods, water, hills and history

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Toilets
Toilets
Mountain biking
Mountain biking
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Cafe or refreshments
Cafe or refreshments
Visitor centre
Visitor centre
Tourist information
Tourist information
Distance from 'Barr Trails': 10.17 miles
Find a forest... View all forests