River Ayr Way Challenge
Glenbuck Loch, United Kingdom • 12 Sep 2026
Route overview
The River Ayr Way is a long distance walking route that runs from Glenbuck Loch to the sea at Ayr. The full route covers 44 miles and was opened in 2006. It follows the River Ayr through a river valley in Southern Scotland and is part of Scotland’s Great Trails. The route passes through areas with historical links to figures such as Robert Burns, William Wallace and John Loudoun Macadam. Habitats along the way support wildlife including otters, badgers, herons and hen harriers.
Access, maps and events
The walk begins at Glenbuck Loch and parking is available at Glenbuck Heritage Park. The route is waymarked and detailed route maps and section maps are provided. A section at Wellflat Bank is closed because of landslides; a temporary diversion via Daldorch is in place while a permanent alternative is negotiated. The River Ayr Way Challenge is an annual ultra-marathon of 40 miles held in September. Maps and route information for entrants are provided for multiple sections. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.