We had seen a number of signposts for the Whithorn Way when we cycled the Ayrshire Coastal Path and the Clyde Walkway and a quick Google suggested it would be right up our street as another route to explore when we had time... which is now.
The route is an interpretation of a pilgrimage starting from Glasgow Cathedral then winding it's way across the South West of Scotland ending at the Isle of Whithorn. We will put our own spin on things cycling in small chunks - either out-n-backs or loops where they appear.
Glasgow to Paisley
We opted to start at the Riverside Museum and make a b-line through the city for the Cathedral before starting to follow the route proper back along the Clyde.
This urban section winds it's way past the Science Centre and through the streets of Govan, Sheildhall and Braehead before crossing the White Cart river and along the "new" airport curtain road and into Paisley and the it's abbey. A cheese butty and about turn but we opted to cross the Renfrew Bridge and pick up NCR7 for a traffic free return.
Paisley to Glengarnock
We parked up at the Lochshore Park in Glengarnock and followed the flat and easy ex-railway tracks, repurposed as the NCR7, through Lochwinnoch, Kilbarchan, Johnstone and eventually reaching Paisley Abbey.
I always enjoy how these ex-rail trails allow you to creep through urban centres, seeing the city from a different perspective.
Glengarnock to Irvine
Parked the van at what would have been the old Magnum Centre and headed through Irvine and up to Glengarnock on quiet back roads (not the official route).
Picked up the official route and started our way back towards Irvine through Kilwinning where the route detours through the town centre to pass the abbey ruins.
We were welcomed back into Irvine to the sounds of some traditional Scottish folk music.
Part 2 to follow due to limit on posting pics...
I love these adventures you share with us.
