Walks you can reach from Newton-on-Ayr by train

Recommended: Predominantly flat and on good surfaces, following riverside paths along the River Irvine and Annick Water and then a long straight former-railway cycle track and a few kilometres of farmland. Makes good use of underpasses; well signed as cycle route 73. Follows National Cycle Route 73 and is suitable for cycling. The riverside is tucked away through trees and grassland and is rich in nature.

1 lunch spot: the Brae

Warnings: Building work near the river at the Irvine end means some areas are cordoned off; the riverside route itself is unaffected. Giant hogweed grows beside the path in places and should be avoided as it has a nasty sting.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Country lanes, tracks and field paths through farmland and woodland and with a particularly fine wooded stretch through Dundonald. One straight field section can be very muddy and is best bypassed. The Colennan-to-Dundonald section is part of the official Smugglers Trail. Dundonald Woods is an SSSI. Extensive woodland.

Warnings: The section between Newfield Mains and Rowanhill runs through the middle of a livestock field and is very muddy even in dry weather and impassable when wet; continue via East Lodge and Cherryknowe instead.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Coast path — Ayrshire Coastal Path all the way.

Walk details: Railwalks.

Stunning views to Arran. A scenic dunes-and-beach route: sandy paths through the dunes (tough going), a long stretch of beach with a few drainage channels to cross and then mown grass and pavement past the marina into Troon. Beautiful and varied with just enough challenge. Possible at high tide; in windy conditions you can walk in the dunes nearer Irvine.

Lunch: No facilities along the way; plenty at either end.

Warnings: Lengthy sections of soft sand make for challenging walking.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Mainly winding country roads bordered by woodland and farmland, with no pavement for almost the whole stretch, then a former railway line crossing a tall viaduct and a packed-soil riverbank path near Kilwinning. Wild-flower verges and several restored old buildings. The disused railway section is part of the Garnock Valley Cycle Route. Extensive woodland.

Warnings: There is no pavement for virtually the whole road section, so take care on the winding country lanes. The riverbank path near Kilwinning is poor underfoot; an easy estate-road alternative exists. Cross Lauchlan Way carefully as there is no pedestrian crossing.

Walk details: Slow Ways.