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Barr Trails

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Latest forest information

15 July 2024: the Fairy Knowe Trail is currently diverted (map here) due to significant storm damage. Sections of this diversion are on stretches of forest road and be prepared for some wet, soft ground conditions. Please follow all on site signage. 

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 (diverted)

A trail notice is in effect

15 July 2024: the Fairy Knowe Trail is currently diverted (map here) due to significant storm damage. Sections of this diversion are on stretches of forest road and be prepared for some wet, soft ground conditions. Please follow all on site signage. 

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 grade icon
3 ½ miles / 5.7 km

Allow 2 ½ 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
Cycling
Cycling
Parking
Parking
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

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Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6900 (option 2)
More contact information

Nearby forests

Drooping conifer branch

Discover Ayrshire's finest mountain scenery by car

Facilities and activities
Ancient monument
Ancient monument
Wildlife hide
Wildlife hide
Walking
Walking
Forest drive
Forest drive
Picnic area
Picnic area
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Play area
Play area
Distance from 'Carrick Forest Drive': 6.92 miles
Drooping conifer branch

Woods, water, hills and history

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Mountain biking
Mountain biking
Cafe or refreshments
Cafe or refreshments
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Toilets
Toilets
Tourist information
Tourist information
Distance from 'Glentrool': 11.14 miles
Drooping conifer branch

Short walk to one of Scotland's most beautiful views

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Parking
Parking
Distance from 'Bruce’s Stone, Loch Trool': 11.76 miles