5.0
(3)
522
runners
67
runs
Jogging around Kilbirnie And Glengarnock offers a variety of routes through a landscape characterized by gentle hills and open countryside. The region features a mix of agricultural land, local roads, and paths that often pass by historical landmarks like Barr Castle. Runners can expect relatively low elevation gains, making many routes accessible for different fitness levels. This area provides a pleasant setting for outdoor activity, with trails that connect local communities and natural spaces.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
20
runners
8.26km
00:52
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
runners
16.9km
01:45
110m
110m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
11
runners
5.48km
00:34
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
runners
8.19km
00:51
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
11.4km
01:11
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Barr Castle is a 15th-century keep which was altered in the 16th century (and probably later, too). The gables of the castle have collapsed, apart from the chimney stack which juts up into the sky. Not much survives of the former courtyard of the castle. The main hall was on the first floor, reached by a turnpike stair, which continued to the rooms on the upper floors. It is clearly visible from the A760 road going south from the village to Kilbirnie. It was built by the Glen family but passed in the late 16th century to the Hamiltons of Ferguslie. A door lintel has a date of 1680 and the initials L.H./I.C. The family abandoned it in the 18th century in favour of a new house. The family, variously known as Sempill, Sempil, Sempel and Semple, had probably owned estates in the area from as early as the 13th century. Robert Semple, Steward of the barony of Renfrew during the reign of Alexander II, was recorded as living in Elliston Castle, whose ruins lie near Howwood. The Semples of Elliston fought for Robert the Bruce, and steadily grew in power to become the Steward's hereditary Baillies of Renfrewshire. They were appointed Hereditary Sheriffs of Renfrewshire and Hereditary Baillies of Paisley. They were later designated as Lords Semple. Their extensive land holdings, Castle Semple, constituted some areas of Lochwinnoch and its hinterland. At some point, probably in the 15th century, the family built a tower keep at the east end of the north shore of the Loch.
0
0
Who can ride past a bunch of highland coos and not stop to say hello? Lovely views on all sides as well, so it's a great place to stop.
0
0
One of the few wetlands left in the west of Scotland, Lochwinnoch is the perfect place to watch whooper swans, wigeon and many others. There's a great visitors centre and loads of walking trails too.
0
0
An old railroad line transformed to a footpath/cycle track. Now part of the National Cycle Route 7.
0
0
Barr Castle is a late medieval tower house. It can be seen today as a ruin on a low ridge to the south of the village of Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, Scotland. Barr Castle was constructed in the 15th or early 16th century. It passed into the hands of the Hamiltons of Ferguslie at the end of the 16th century. They retained the castle until the late 18th century, when they sold and abandoned it for a new mansion. The castle is protected as a scheduled monument. Text taken from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barr_Castle
0
0
There are over 70 running routes in the Kilbirnie and Glengarnock area, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness levels and preferences.
For an easier experience, you can find 7 routes classified as 'easy'. These typically feature lower elevation gains, making them suitable for a relaxed jog. While specific easy routes aren't detailed here, komoot offers several options in this category.
Yes, many of the running routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Running loop from Kilbirnie, which is a convenient local circuit.
The routes in Kilbirnie and Glengarnock traverse a landscape of gentle hills and open countryside, often passing through agricultural land and along local paths. You'll also encounter historical landmarks like Barr Castle and scenic viewpoints, such as those found on the View of Geilsland Road loop from Beith.
Absolutely. Many routes pass by significant historical sites. For instance, the Barr Castle – Highland Cattle Pasture loop from Beith takes you past Barr Castle. Other nearby attractions include Eglinton Castle Tower and Castle Semple Collegiate Church.
Running route durations vary. For example, the Running loop from Kilbirnie typically takes about 50 minutes, while the View of Geilsland Road loop from Beith can be completed in about 35 minutes. Longer routes, like the Barr Castle – Highland Cattle Pasture loop from Beith, might take over an hour and 45 minutes.
While specific 'hidden gems' are subjective, the region offers a mix of popular and quieter paths. Exploring some of the moderate or difficult routes, such as the Highland Cattle Pasture loop from Beith, might lead you to less frequented sections of the countryside, offering a more tranquil experience away from the busiest spots.
The running routes in Kilbirnie and Glengarnock are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the pleasant setting of open countryside, and the opportunity to pass by historical sites like Barr Castle.
Many of the routes with lower elevation gains and moderate distances are suitable for families. Look for routes classified as 'easy' or 'moderate' that stick to well-defined paths, such as the Barr Castle loop from Kilbirnie, which offers a manageable distance and points of interest.
Many of the trails in the open countryside and along local paths are suitable for running with dogs. However, as routes often pass through agricultural land, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
The region offers pleasant running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, though some paths might be more exposed to the sun. Winter running is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on unpaved trails and shorter daylight hours.
Kilbirnie and Glengarnock are served by local bus routes and Glengarnock has a train station, which can provide access points to various trails. Many routes start near the towns, making them potentially accessible from public transport hubs. It's advisable to check local transport schedules and route starting points for specific planning.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.