Key:

Overview

Distance:
7 miles,
11.2 km
Average time to complete:
2 hours
Route type:
Cycling
Total elevation:
76 metres
Difficulty:
Low

Description

This circular route leads riders through a diverse array of landscapes as it takes in the areas of Auchinstarry, Twechar, Kilsyth, Colzium and Banton Loch.
Explore constantly changing views of woodland, wetland, parkland and open landscapes, or explore the Roman fort at Bar Hill and modern canal engineering along the waterway. You’ll find a range of facilities along the way including bike hire and food at Auchinstarry Marina as well as eateries in Kilsyth and Colzium.

Terrain

This is a mostly flat route, following canal towpath and a mix of other paths, pavements, quiet streets and pedestrianised areas through Kilsyth. Surfaces vary from tarmac to gravel, so a bike with wide tyres is recommended.

Getting There

BY RAIL: The route can be accessed from Croy train station, 1km from the trail.
BY BUS: The 88C bus service links Kilsyth, Kirkintilloch and Lennoxtown; the 35 service runs between Falkirk and Kilsyth/Croy.
BY CAR: Parking is available at Auchinstarry Marina.

Facilities

This route includes the town centre of Kilsyth and the house, play park and woodland trails through Colzium Estate, making it ideal for the family.

For a full listing of businesses and attractions on this route, see the Plan Your Trip page.

Points of interest

Bar Hill

The highest fort on the Antonine Wall, containing the foundations of the headquarters building and bath-house.

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Dumbreck Marsh Local Nature Reserve

The Marsh is an open area of countryside, including ponds and large areas of grassland, home to birds including lapwing and skylarks.

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Colzium Estate

Visitors can explore the many trails and splendid gardens, and also view the castle ruins on the estate.

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Croy Hill

Site of an ancient Roman fort, fortlet and camp on the Antonine Wall.

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55.966967, -4.050692
https://johnmuirway.org/assets/routes/CyclingDayTripRoutes/d47bd451c2/28-kilsyth_auchinstarry_loop-v2.txt