Lochwinnoch Loop - Sunday Strolls

Continues during 2010. Dates on "lets go skating" of TrySkating.com. Always check for schedule changes before travelling because start times and venues can vary from week to week.

• April to September
• Sundays afternoons
• Usual start time 2.30pm prompt

 

If you prefer take the scenic route through Howood and avoid Roadhead Roundabout. go this way.

Travelling west, from Glasgow, by car along the M8 take the A737 road to Irvine at Junction 28A just passed the Glasgow Airport flyover.

Proceed for about 6 miles, then look out for the turn-off on your left to Howwood. Follow the road left into the centre of Howwood and bear left at the road signed Kilbarchan. (This road also serves Howwood Station).

Go along this twisty road for about 3 miles (ignore the right turn to Kilbarchan) eventually you come to a T Junction with the B768. Turn left and you're almost at Lochwinnoch.

Go down the steep hill, look out for the the "Corner Bar" (the Cycle Path is sign posted) and turn left. Pass under the bridge and turn immediate left into the Water Sports Centre car park. This route is a lot easier than the directions suggest.

Lochwinnoch F.A.Q.

• I would like more info about the Lochwinnoch Loop before I skate there? Okay click map and here's more about the village.
• Is it all right to come alone? Of course. Skaters are friendly and Don will help if you have a (skate) problem.
• What time do we start? Normally 2.30pm prompt. (check to make sure) Please come early to fit skates and put on pads.
• Where do we leave from? The Water Sports Centre car park and return there to finish.
• How much does the skate cost? The skate is FREE. (there is only a charge if you need to hire skates).
• How far do I have to skate? Any distance you like.
• How long will I be skating? Around an hour, maybe longer if it is a nice sunny day. You can decide when you are there.
• Will I hold everybody back? The Rollerstroll is relaxed. This is not a race, sprint or time trial. We wait until you catch up. If you want a faster skate the Wednesday Whiz evening skate is the one for you.
• The start hill is worrying me? If you have some hill stopping ability you will manage. If hills are new to you then first try one of Don's heel-brake clinics to boost your confidence. See the monthly newsletters for dates.
• Can I hire skates? Yes you can but you need to order them two days before at the latest. 07733 276 902 is the number to call. Special Lochwinnoch skate charge of £5 includes safety pads but not a helmet.
• Do I need to wear a helmet? Safety pads and a helmet are recommended. You skate without them at your own risk.
• I'm not coming by car is there anywhere to leave my backpack? Yes, you can leave your backpack/shoes/etc, in Don's van while you skate. Don't forget to pick up your possessions on the way back. (Check first to make sure Don will be there.)
• Bad weather? We do not skate in the rain or if we think the surface is going to be slippery. If the conditions look doubtful and you are not sure whether to travel 'phone 07733 276 902 to find out if the Rollerstroll is on.
• How will I know if the skate is cancelled? It will be posted in the information column of the "lets go skating" page of tryskating.com

Sharing the Loop with others.

We are skating on a cycling path. The more serious cyclists, generally recognisable by their Lycra outfits, treat the loop as their own. They do not take kindly to skaters blocking the pathway. When cyclists approach we keep to the LHS to avoid causing an obstruction and prevent them having reason for complaint.

Pedestrians are apprehensive when they see a group of skaters approaching. Please make sure you slow down and pass leaving as much room as possible. We want skaters to be considered good path users.

Animals, particularly dogs roam the pathway because owners take this opportunity to let their dogs off the leash. Dogs are easily startled if it is the first time they have encountered skaters. Apparently dog owners consider it is the responsibility of the skater to pass in an appropriate manner. While this is a moot point we accept the constraint for the good of the sport.

Finally

Please don't upset the locals even if they upset you. Remember they live there and we want to be welcomed back in the future. Respect the countryside and please make sure you do not leave any litter behind.

Don't forget skating is a balancing activity. You skate at your own risk. Wear your safety pads and a helmet at all times. You have a duty of care to yourself as well as to others.

• Got more questions?
• Something missed out?
• Want to make a comment?
• Got some good suggestions?

Fire ahead - email: inline@tryskating.com - don't hold back.