January - June 2019

Feeling Fitter 36 part of Renfrewshire Walking Network

Wednesday Community Walks Renfrewshire and around

In association with Why Should I Go Walking?

Walking is a great way to stay healthy and benefits are plentiful. Below are a few of the benefits that you can expect to gain by maintaining a level of walking which suits your ability.

• Helps control weight • Builds and maintains healthy bones, muscles and joints • Improves the function of your heart and lungs • Relaxes you • Reduces signs of stress and anxiety • Gives you more energy • Reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol • Increases self confidence • Keeps the brain active

Why not build up your walking programme If you are starting out on your first walk build up your fitness gradually and join one of the many health walks in your local community, meet lots of new friends and chat while the miles disappear and before you know, it’s time for a well earned cuppa, whilst reflecting on your morning’s exercise. Next on the programme is Level 1A which is slightly longer than your health walk but you know you are ready for the challenge! Moving on to Level 1B which is slightly more adventurous than the last level, incorporating more inclines and walking for a slightly longer distance. Last level on the Renfrewshire Walking Network programme is Level 2 which incorporates all levels adding in rougher ground, longer time and distance walking but just as enjoyable with lots of company along the way! So whatever level you start at there is a walking group to suit you in Renfrewshire. Welcome

Beyond this page is Feeling Fitter 36 Tartan hats or Easter bonnets With a few events thrown in the mix You all like to sing the sonnets Come along and walk with us So Iam taking the time just to say Enjoy the chatter and all the buzz!! Thanks for walking the Renfrewshire way!

Walking up and down the towns Here’s to a New Year and new resolutions Sometimes we may dress I hope walking with us is a lot like clowns part of your conclusions Easter, Christmas or the tartan day We are here every week plus once a fortnight You know how to dress is all I’ll say!!! To keep you fit with good health in sight!!!

A special thanks to the wonderful Volunteer Walk Leaders who give up their valuable time so everyone can enjoy their walk safely. The Renfrewshire Walking Network Committee who work with myself behind the scenes securing funds to enable the programme to operate. Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park Rangers who have been a valuable partner for many years. The Community Mental Health Team who help us to make a difference. Forestry Commisssion who bring an important partnership to the group. Paths For All who support the walking programme on a national level. The Renfrewshire Walking Network is supported by Renfrewshire Leisure. Keep on walking Everyone, Thank you for your continued support to the walking programme. Senga McLeod Senga McLeod Renfrewshire Leisure Community Activity Officer 3 Health Walking Groups In Your Local Community

LOCHWINNOCH Every Monday meeting at McKillop Centre at 10.30am FERGUSLIE Every Monday meeting at St Ninians Church at 11.00am GLENBURN/FOXBAR Every Tuesday meeting at Glenburn Parish Church at 10.30am ERSKINE Every Tuesday meeting at Bargarran Community Centre at 10.30am BARSHAW PARK Every Thursday meeting at the middle entrance (café) at 10.30am JOHNSTONE Every Thursday meeting at Johnstone Town Centre (next to bandstand) at 10.30am. RENFREW Every Thursday meeting at Robertson Park Gates on Inchinan Road at 10.30am. BARSHAW PARK Every Thursday 10.00am at the middle entrance car park This walk is designed for people who have been affected by cancer STROLL IN THE PARK Every second Tuesday, at Paisley Town Hall at 11.00am, (For more information on this walk pattern please call Senga McLeod on 0300 300 1362) All walks last approx. 1hour and are suitable for all abilities All Community walking groups are Macmillan Cancer Friendly

Look out for new walks starting in a community near you !

4 Level 1(A)

16 January PAISLEY SAUNTER (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/4.0KM) Join us today on our first day back after the festive season, let’s walk off the extra pounds as we wander through the streets of Paisley embracing the fresh air whilst enjoying our surroundings. This walk is on paved surfaces and relatively flat. Walk starts at 10.30am outside Paisley Museum 30 January RENFREW DODDLE (CIRCULAR 2.9MLS/4.4KM) Today we take a walk through the historic town of Renfrew, leading to Ferry point, then joining the river path to Clyde View Park. We will then return to town via a different route. This walk is flat and comfortable shoes are advised. Walk starts at 10.30am Outside Renfrew Town Hall 13 February GLENBURN STROLL (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/5.0KM) Join us today as we wander through the streets of Glenburn and learn of the past history of this busy part of town. This walk is mainly paved surfaces and it may include a small incline as we are just below the Gleniffer Braes and the hilliest part of the town Walk starts at 10.30am at Braehead Road Shops, Glenburn 20 February TARTAN WALK (CIRCULAR 2.0MLS/3.2KM) Come and join us for fun, laughter and song as we meander through the village of Lochwinnoch dressed in our tartan scarves. This walk is suitable for all abilities and everyone is encouraged to walk at their own pace and enjoy the atmosphere. Walk starts 11.00am at Castle Semple Visitor Centre Lochwinnoch 5 27 February A VISIT TO BRODIE PARK (CIRCULAR 2.8MLS/4.5KM) Today we will start off at the hospital and visit Brodie Park where we will have the chance to play on the swings or try out the gym equipment or even just have a wee seat if the weather allows. Although this walk is mainly flat we will have a slight incline in the park to negotiate and time and care will be taken. Walk starts 10.30am at the RAH, Paisley (Bottom bus stop on the road)

13 March ELDERSLIE ALONG TO PAISLEY (LINEAR 2.8MLS/4.5KM) Today we will start our walk in the historical village of Elderslie where we will learn of the local boy William Wallace. This walk is flat and suitable for all levels of ability. Please come with comfortable shoes and dressed for the weather. Walk starts at 10.30am at the Wallace Monument in Elderslie

27 March LEARN ABOUT THE MILLS (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/4.0KM) Today we take a trip down memory lane to the past glory of Paisley to what was the J&P Coates owned Ferguslie Thread Mill. The site is now home to many residential properties but remnants of the past are still visible. The walk is completely on paved surfaces and is flat so comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 10.30am outside the West Primary School, Paisley

6 10 April DURROCKSTOCK PARK AND BEYOND (CIRCULAR 3.0MLS/5.0KM) Today we will stroll along the popular Durrockstock Park and enjoy the views of the Gleniffer Braes as they stand proud in the background. This walk is mainly flat and on surfaced paths. Comfortable shoes are recommended Walk starts at 10.30am at Amochrie Road entrance opposite Gleniffer High 17 April THE RETURN OF THE EASTER BONNET PARADE (CIRCULAR 3.0MLS/5.0KM) Join us today as we go back in time but to a different venue to celebrate Easter by having a Bonnet Parade. Today we will enjoy the views of down the Clyde and across the bridge as we wander around the Boden Boo in Erskine. There may be prizes for the best dressed hat so get your thinking caps on!!! Walk starts at 1.00pm at the Swimming Pool in Bridgewater Shopping Centre 24 April A CHURCH OR TWO ALONG THE WAY (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/4.0KM) Join us today as we visit some of Paisleys historical buildings, and count the many churches which on a Sunday housed the Paisley population. This walk is on paved surfaces and comfortable shoes are advised. Walk starts at 10.30am at the Love Street entrance to Fountain Gardens, Paisley

7 8 May DO THE DONKEY WALK (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/4.0KM) Today our walk will take us to a well known park where there is something for everyone to enjoy, but firstly we will wander around the surrounding areas of Whitehaugh. This walk will include a slight incline but the views are well worth the effort. Time and care will be given to enable everyone to reach the top. Walk starts at 10.30am outside the Lagoon Leisure Centre

22 May A WELL EARNED ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 3.0MLS/5.0KM) Today our walk is flat as we head along to Jennys Well Nature reserve where we will hopefully see some local wild life preferably the elusive Kingfishers. Parts of this walk may be soft underfoot and sensible shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 10.30am outside Morrisons on Mile End

5 May A POND IN THE PARK (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/4.0KM) Today our walk will take us to another of Paisleys hidden gems. Snuggled off the main road this piece of history takes us back to the times when Paisleys mills were thriving. This walk includes a very small incline and time and care will be given. A section of this walk may be muddy if the weather is unkind Walk starts today at 10.30am outside the Paisley Museum

8 19 June A BRIDGE TOO FAR (CIRCULAR 2.5MLS/4.0KM) Today our walk will see us venture across some of Paisleys well known bridges. On our journey we will explore the history of these long standing structures. This walk is paved and comfortable shoes should be worn Walk starts at 10.30am at Paisley Town Hall

26 June GARDEN PARTY We would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to the Renfrewshire Walking Network Garden Party. Come along and enjoy a short walk and meet other walkers and listen to stories of past adventures from leaders and walkers whilst enjoying a cuppa tea. More information to follow.

9 Level 1(B)

16 January LOCHWINNOCH HIDDEN GEMS (CIRCULAR 3.1MLS/5.0KM)

Let’s start the New Year discovering hidden gems in this Fairtrade Village! We will meet at the McKillop Centre and wander various paths on our adventure! There will be mostly paved surfaces but muddy bits maybe encountered. Comfortable walking shoes should be worn. Walk starts at 1.00pm at the McKillop Centre.

30 January JOHNSTONE & RANNOCH WOODS (CIRCULAR 3.7MLS/5.9KMS) Today we go for a walk in the woods south of Johnstone where we will visit the ancient cup & ring marks before returning to the station. The walk is on a mixture of made up paths and tarmac pavements some of which are likely to be muddy so boots are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at the main entrance to Johnstone Station.

13 February BARRHEAD DAMS (CIRCULAR 4.5MLS/7.2KMS) Dams to Darnley is made up of a patchwork of different landscapes, including the Barrhead Dams,Waulkmill Glen,Woodland and Darnley Mill, with its mosaic of grassland and wetland habitats and we will be doing a small walk around the area. Comfortable boots are recommended Walk starts at 1.00pm at Tesco, Barrhead.

10 20 February TARTAN WALK (CIRCULAR 2.0MLS/3.2KM) Come and join us for fun, laughter and song as we meander through the village of Lochwinnoch dressed in our tartan scarves. This walk is suitable for all abilities and everyone is encouraged to walk at their own pace and enjoy the atmosphere. Walk starts 11.00am at Castle Semple Visitor Centre Lochwinnoch

27 February HOWWOOD TO JOHNSTONE VIA THE TEMPLE (LINEAR 4.8MLS/7.7KMS) On our walk today we visit the ‘Temple’ overlooking Howwood before taking the cycle track via Kilbarchan into Johnstone. Most of the walk is on tarmac but there is one section of rough track which could be muddy so boots are highly recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm from Howwood Station

13 March BISHOPTON CIRCULAR VIA ERSKINE (CIRCULAR 4.6MLS/7.4KM) Today our walk will take us from a railway station to a bus station with lovely countryside along the way. This walk will have a variety of surfaces from tarmac to tracks and sensible shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Bishopton Railway Station

27 March BRIDGE OF WEIR ALONG TO QUARRIERS (CIRCULAR 5.0MLS/8.1KM) Our walk today will take us towards Kilmacolm where we will utilise the pathway which leads to the heart of this once vibrant children’s home. Once in the village we can take time to explore and admire the stunning buildings and learn of its fascinating history. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Co-op in Bridge Of Weir 11 10 April GLENGARNOCK RAMBLE (CIRCULAR 4.5MLS/7.2KM) Today our walk will takes us to the once bustling town of Glengarnock, from here we will visit the site of the old Steelworks which are long gone but the local memories and some buildings remain from here we will walk to the town of Kilbirnie and cross the River Garnock as we make our way back to the station. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Glengarnock Railway Station

17 April THE RETURN OF THE EASTER BONNET PARADE (CIRCULAR 3.0MLS/5.0KM) Join us today as we go back in time but to a different venue to celebrate Easter by having a Bonnet Parade. Today we will enjoy the views of down the Clyde and across the bridge as we wander around the Boden Boo in Erskine. There may be prizes for the best dressed hat so get your thinking caps on!!! Walk starts at 1.00pm at the Swimming Pool in Bridgewater Shopping Centre

24 April BRODIE PARK ALONG TO SMA SHOT COTTAGES (LINEAR 2.0MLS/3.2KM) Today our walk is a little different from our usual offering, we will visit a local museum to see the conditions and how people lived in times gone past. But firstly we can play on the swings and hopefully the weather will be on our side. This walk may take longer than normal as we take time to enjoy the Sma Shot Cottages. Please note there is tea room at the back for when the walk is finished. Walk starts at 1.00pm at The Outdoor Gym/Playpark at Brodie Park

12 8 May A VISIT TO NEWARK CASTLE (CIRCULAR 4.2MLS/6.7KM) Today we will venture down the coast to Port Glasgow where our walk will take us past Newark Castle making our way along the waterside to Parklea. We will return by the same route. Although this is a mainly flat walk part of the way is on boardwalk which maybe slippery if the weather is wet but time and care will be taken. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Port Glasgow Railway Station

22 May DALRY COMMUNITY WOODLAND (CIRCULAR 4.5MLS/7.0KM) We will wend our way around Dalry and the surrounding area using footpaths, single track roads, pavements and grassed paths within the woodlands. These paths may be muddy and have some slight inclines. Walk start at 1.00pm at Dalry Railway Station

5 June HOUSTON MEANDER (CIRCULAR 4.0MLS/6.4KM) Starting and finishing at the Carrick centre, the old school in Houston Main Street, this walk is mainly flat and is on pavements and paved pathways. We will take our time and enjoy this rural countryside village. Comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at the Carrick Centre, Houston

13 19 June FOOTPATHS, FIELDS AND A FOREST (CIRCULAR 3.0MLS/4.9KM) A varied walk today starting in Glenburn then along the cycle track to Brownside finishing with a wee wander through the Glen.Surfaces include tarmac but also some grass/earth paths and a gradual climb so comfortable shoes or boots are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Glen Lodge, Glenfield Road, Paisley

26 June GARDEN PARTY We would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to the Renfrewshire Walking Network Garden Party. Come along and enjoy a short walk and meet other walkers and listen to stories of past adventures from leaders and walkers whilst enjoying a cuppa tea. More information to follow.

14 Level 2

16 January LINWOOD MOSS (CIRCULAR 6.0MLS/9.6KM) Today we will walk the Linwood Moss, an ancient peat moss with associated woodlands. Our walk will take in the monument to a plane crash near Linwood and the banks of the River Gryffe and the Locher Burn. We may see some interesting bird life including the rarely seen skylark and buzzard. Mainly on good pathways and country roads, good footwear required. Walk starts at 10.30am at Napier Street bus stop outside Linwood Shopping Centre. 30 January GLASGOW MURAL TRAIL (PART 2) (CIRCULAR 7.0MLS/11.2KM) Glasgow has created a Mural Trail featuring the diverse range of art within easy walking distance of the city centre. The huge range of artwork on display has something to suit all tastes - conservative to radical, quirky to bizarre. The street murals are unique pieces of art which Glaswegians, visitors and local businesses say are helping to enrich the city centre. Walk starts at 10.30am at Buchanan Street Bus Station at main info board 13 February LOCHWINNOCH RAMBLE (CIRCULAR 6.3MLS/10.4 KM) Today’s walk takes us to the outskirts of Lochwinnoch walking on undulating country roads. We return past the golf course and Horseshoe Falls and wind our way through the village eventually back to the station. Walk is mainly on roads and pavements, some steep inclines. Walk start at 10:30am Lochwinnoch Railway Station 15 20 February TARTAN WALK (CIRCULAR 2.0MLS/3.2KM) Come and join us for fun, laughter and song as we meander through the village of Lochwinnoch dressed in our tartan scarves. This walk is suitable for all abilities and everyone is encouraged to walk at their own pace and enjoy the atmosphere. Walk starts 11.00am at Castle Semple Visitor Centre Lochwinnoch 27 February THE FRENCH MEMORIAL (LINEAR 5.2MLS/8.3KM) Today our walk takes us down the coast in search of some amazing views. We start our journey with a short walk to the Kempock Stane before climbing up Tower HIll. This walk is mainly uphill and time and care will be given. The views from the top and the history of this is what makes the effort worthwhile. The walk will finish at Greenock Railway Station. Walk starts at 10.30am at Gourock Railway Station 13 March CLYDESIDE WALK WAY (LINEAR 7.0MLS/11.25KM) Glasgow has created a Mural Trail Glasgow central station (low level) and proceeds on the north bank of the River Clyde to Cambuslang Bridge. The bridge is a short distance from Cambuslang Railway Station. The first stage of the Clyde Walkway follows the riverbank through the very centre of Glasgow and continues to Cambuslang Bridge. There is a great deal of interest in the urban and industrial landscapes along the way, Walk starts at 10.30am at Glasgow Central Low level 27 March HUG A WINDMILL (CIRCULAR 10.0MLS/16.0KM) Join us today as we venture down to the village of West Kilbride from there it is roughly over rough and in parts muddy moorland and tracks to circle Law Hill past the castle back to the station. We will witness ever changing views. Comfortable walking boots are strongly recommended. Walk starts at 10.45am at West Kilbride Railway Station

16 10 April BUCHANAN STREET ALONG TO CLYDEBANK (LINEAR 8.0MLS/13.0KM) Join us today us we walk to Sighthill henge from there it’s along to Speirs Wharf where we will aim for the canal path to Clydebank there will be points where you could leave the walk and get public transport back to town Walk starts at 10.30am at Buchannan Street Bus Station 17 April THE RETURN OF THE EASTER BONNET PARADE (CIRCULAR 3.0MLS/5.0KM) Join us today as we go back in time but to a different venue to celebrate Easter by having a Bonnet Parade. Today we will enjoy the views of down the Clyde and across the bridge as we wander around the Boden Boo in Erskine. There may be prizes for the best dressed hat so get your thinking caps on!!! Walk starts at 1.00pm at the Swimming Pool in Bridgewater Shopping Centre 24 April MUIRSHIEL MINE WALK (CIRCULAR 4.69MLS/7.56KM) Starting at Muirshiel visitor centre we walk up to the Barytes mine and back looking at some lovely views across the moor. This walk is mainly on rough tracks, may be wet in places. Walk starts at 10.30am at Muirshiel Visitor Centre 8 May KILMACOLM RAMBLE (CIRCULAR 8.0MILES/12.8KM) Our walk today will meander around the surrounding area of Kilmacolm. Views on the way include Ben Lomond across the Clyde as we make our way alongside Port Glasgow Golf Club on moorland tracks. We will also be walking on cycle track, tarmac roads and grassy paths. Rough path walking so sturdy footwear advised. Walk starts 11.00 am at Kilmacolm Library. 17 22 May GLENIFFER ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 7.5MLS/12.2KM) Our walk today will take us from the Glen Lodge around part of the perimeter of the Gleniffer Braes Country Park. We will take in some fantastic views from the high spots overlooking the Clyde valley and up to the Arrochar Alps. We may even see some toffee coos! Rough path walking so comfortable boots are advised. Walk starts at 10.30am at the Glen Lodge Visitor Centre, Glenfield Road, Paisley 5 June DALRY WANDER (CIRCULAR 5.67MLS/9.13KM) We make our way through the outskirts of Dalry in a big loop. We will be walking on footpaths, grassed tracks, single track roads and pavements. Some of these may be muddy and there will be some steep inclines. Walk starts at 11.00am at Dalry Railway Station 19 June MARYHILL LOCKS TO KINNING PARK (LINEAR 8.0MLS/13.0KM) Today our walk starts on Maryhill road and joins the Forth and Clyde Canal Walkway. The route passes the historical three Maryhill Locks and then follows the River Kelvin walkway past Kelvin Bridge and on to Kinning Park.There are many interesting features to see on the way. The route is mainly flat on tarmac paths and some pavements. Comfortable shoes are advised. Walk starts at 10.45am at St. Georges Cross Subway station in Glasgow. 26 June GARDEN PARTY We would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to the Renfrewshire Walking Network Garden Party. Come along and enjoy a short walk and meet other walkers and listen to stories of past adventures from leaders and walkers whilst enjoying a cuppa tea. More information to follow.

18 Health and Safety

Health & Safety plays a huge part in the Renfrewshire Walking Networks programme and we strive to keep you safe and well at all times. Below are a few guidelines that we must insist are adhered to. This will enable us to deliver a safe walking environment for you to enjoy.

• Walkers are responsible for carrying water to every walk • Walk descriptions must be read and appropriate footwear worn • Walkers may be refused to join the walk if not adequately dressed • Medication is the responsibility of the walker but must be close at hand if required during the walk • ALL health forms MUST be completed before walking • Walkers are walking at their own risk and leaders reserve the right to change route of walk due to weather/path conditions

All walks are led by qualified volunteer walk leaders who are working in partnership with Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park Rangers and Forestry Commision *All walk enquiries should be directed to: Senga McLeod (Community Activity Officer) on 0300 300 1362. The Renfrewshire Walking Network are actively looking for volunteers to join their team of walk leaders, anyone interested please speak to a leader on a walk or contact Senga on the above number. For all travel enquiries call: 0871 200 22 33 (Travel Line Scotland) www.renfrewshireleisure.com

In association with