July - December 2018

Feeling Fitter 35 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 in Renfrewshire for you. Welcome

Welcome to Feeling Fitter 35 Your support has really been inspiring Read all the pages its now gone live Always strong and never tiring We know walking is so good for us In a group you can really feel the buzz To all of the amazing volunteer Walk Leaders Without you there are no walks through the ceders Walking up and down each path Up the hills and through the glens Everyone always having a laugh With partners, husbands, wives and friends Seeing the sights old and new Our aim is no- one leaves feeling blue So lets raise a toast to everyone involved A fantastic job and many problems solved Even when the skies are all grey These guys give there time up so you can have a walk You still come out – what can I say To be with your friends to chatter, blether or just talk!!!! 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)

11 July MILLPORT (CIRCULAR 5.0MLS OR LESS) Join us today as we join the rest of the Feeling fitter groups in a wee day out to Millport. We will do a shorter route and meet up with our fellow walkers in the main town. Walk starts at 10.45am at Largs Peir.

25 July THORNLY PARK ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 4.5KM/2.8MLS) Our walk today takes us from the large houses of Thornly Park to the smaller houses of Lochfield then to Brodie Park where if time & weather permit we can use some energy on the exercise machines before returning to Morrisons for a coffee. The route is on pavements throughout so comfortable shoes should be worn. Walk starts from Morrisons store in Neilson Road at 10.30am.

8 August ROBERTSON PARK ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 4.0KM/2.5MLS) Join us for a walk today in and around the newly developed Robertson Park in Renfrew. Weather permitting we may have time for a shot on the swings. The walk is flat and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 10.30am at the Craigielea Road entrance, Robertson Park.

5 22 August BLUEBELL WOODS & THE BRANDY BURN (2.5MLS/4.0KM) Today we meet up with the local Forest Enterprise staff and explore the newly upgraded path system within the woodland. Learn all about the flora and local inhabitants This walk may be muddy in places if the weather is unkind and sensible footwear is recommended. Walk start at The Rest & be Thankful bench on the Beith Road, Johnstone (next to the old Bird In The Hand) at 10.30am.

5 September DYKEBAR ALONG TO THE SWINGS (LINEAR 4.6KM/2.9MLS) Today our walk will have us visiting the once well used Dykebar Hospital passing through the many buildings we will head to the more newer estates before wandering through the older style houses whist making our way to play on the swings at Brodie Park. This walk is mainly on paved surfaces with a few off road sections and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 10.30am at the bus stop in Dykebar Hospital.

19 September BARSHAW CIRCULAR (CIRCULAR 5.1KM/3.2MLS) Today we stroll along Glasgow Road to Barshaw Park. After a wander through the park and the walled garden we return to the start along Seedhill Road and the River Cart. The walk is on pavements & tarmac paths but there may be puddles in the park so sensible shoes are advised. The walk starts from the Town Hall at 10.30am.

6 3 October BREDILAND & THE CANDREN BURN (CIRCULAR 4.5KM/2.8MLS) Join us today as we venture around the Foxbar area where we will discover a lot of local history. Our walk is mainly flat but as Foxbar sits on a hill then we may encounter a few inclines. Walk starts at 10.30am at Foxbar Community Centre. 17 October MARJORY BRUCE ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 5.1KM/3.2MLS) Today we take a step back in time to follow the route of a king’s mother (in reverse) as we go from the Abbey to the cairn in Renfrew Road before returning via Gallowhill and Whitehaugh. The route is totally on pavements and mainly flat but comfortable footwear is advised. The walk starts at 10.30 am at the Cloister entrance to Paisley Abbey in Abbey Close. 31 October OAKSHAW TOUR (CIRCULAR 3.5KM/2.0MLS) Join us today as we explore the history which lies in the middle of our wee town, we will visit some of the towns heritage whist hopefully taking in some lovely views. This walk is on paved surfaces and comfortable shoes are advised Walk starts at 10.30am at the Paisley Town Hall. 14 November 3 PAISLEY PARKS (CIRCULAR 4.2KM/2.5MLS) Today we are visiting 3 of Paisleys least well known parks, wee gems hidden out of sight from passing traffic. This walk is on paved surfaces and comfortable shoes are advised. Walk starts at 10.30am at West Primary, Newton Street. 7 28 November ROBERTS KILBARCHAN STROLL (CIRCULAR 4.2KM/2.5MLS) Join us today as we explore this small historical town, where we will walk past the many houses where the weavers used to house their looms. This walk is on paved surfaces and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 10.30am outside the co-op in Kilbarchan.

5 December TINSEL WALK (CIRCULAR 3.5KMS/2.0MLS) Come along and enjoy the festivities as we venture through the village of Lochwinnoch singing a few Christmas songs and enjoy the festive atmosphere. This walk is on a level which is suitable for all abilities of walkers and people are encouraged to walk at their own pace! Walk Starts at 11.00am at Castle Semple Visitors Centre, Lochwinnoch.

8 Level 1(B)

11 July A WEE DAY OUT TO MILLPORT (CIRCULAR 8.0KM/5.0MLS OR 16.0KM/10.0MLS) Join us today as all groups meet doon the watter for a wee day oot to Millport. People will be encouraged to walk at their own pace and a distance which suits them. Everyone meet to register at 10.45am at Largs Peir.

25 July RENFREW ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 5.6KM/3.5MLS) Today we will walk in and around the town of Renfrew, taking in a number of interesting parks, buildings and developments. The walk is flat and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Inchinnan Road entrance to Robertson Park.

8 August A VISIT TO EGLINGTON PARK (CIRCULAR 8.0KM/5.0MLS) Today we will visit the town of we will make our way through the main town on our way to the hidden treasure of Eglington Country Park. Once there we will enjoy a short walk around the park before heading back for a well earned rest on the train. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Kilwinning Railway Station.

9 22 August STONES & TOWERS (CIRCULAR 7.0KM/4.4MLS) Todays walk will take us from Johnstone town Centre along the cart to the little known standing stones and then via Kilbarchan to reach the two towers. This route is on pavements and cycle track and generally flat. Comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at the Bandstand Johnstone Town Centre.

5 September BELLAHOUSTON RAMBLE (CIRCULAR 4.9KM/3.0MLS) Join us today as we explore this lovely Glasgow park. This walk is not about the miles but the lovely surroundings, join us as we stroll around the grounds and take in the views this lovely park has to offer, as well as enjoy the tranquillity of the walled gardens. Walk starts at 1.00pm at the Bellahouston Sports Centre.

19 September LINWOOD JAUNT (CIRCULAR 4.9KM/3.0MLS) Join us today as we explore Linwoods nooks and crannies. Maybe we will be lucky enough to see some local wildlife as we pass through the local woodland. Our walk today is mainly flat and may be muddy in places so comfortable shoes are in recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at the bus terminal at top of Brediland Road.

10 3 October ICE HOUSE & CASCADES ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 6.5KM/4.0MLS) Join us today on this exciting walk through the woods with nooks and crannies filled with things to discover. If we are lucky we will see some local wildlife. There is an incline near the start of the walk but time and care will be taken. This walk is on paved and woodland track surfaces and maybe muddy/wet in places and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Castle Semple Visitors Centre.

17 October THOMAS SHANKS PARK (CIRCULAR 6.4KM/4.0MLS) Join us today as we make our way to this unsung park on the outskirts of the town. This park was named after the 19th century industrialist and gifted by his daughter to the people of Johnstone. This walk is mainly on tarmac and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Johnstone Railway Station.

31 October MARJORY BRUCE CAIRN (CIRCULAR 6.3KM/4.0MLS) Our walk today is a little bit of history as we go from Paisley Abbey where a king’s mother is buried to where she fell from her horse. We return via Gallowhill, Barshaw Park and Seedhill. The route which is mainly flat is on pavements and tarmac paths but there may be puddles in the park so sensible footwear is suggested. The walk starts at 1.00pm outside the Cloister entrance to Paisley Abbey in Abbey Close.

11 14 November A VISIT TO THE BARRAS (CIRCULAR 8.04KM/5.0MLS) Join us today for a walk with a difference, visit the site of the “auld Glesga” Barras, learn of the famous history of this once bustling market renown around the world. This walk is mainly on tarmac surfaces and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm at Glasgow Central Low Level Station (bottom of escalators).

28 November BOBS ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 4.9KM/3.0MLS) Come along and join Bob as he embarks on a Paisley adventure, learn of the towns special history. This walk is on paved surfaces and comfortable shoes are recommended. Walk starts at 1.00pm outside Paisley Town Hall.

5 December TINSEL WALK (CIRCULAR 3.5KMS/2.0MLS) Come along and enjoy the festivities as we venture through the village of Lochwinnoch singing a few Christmas songs and enjoy the festive atmosphere. This walk is a level which is suitable for all levels of walkers and people are encouraged to walk at their own pace! Walk Starts at 11.00am at Castle Semple Visitors Centre, Lochwinnoch. 12 It was with heavy hearts that we sadly had to say goodbye to our friend and colleague Joan Munro. Joan was a Volunteer Walk Leader with the Renfrewshire Walking Network for over 10 years and she will be greatly missed by us all.

13 Level 2

11 July MILLPORT (CIRCULAR 8.0KM/5.0MLS OR 16.0KM/10.0MLS) Join us today as all groups meet doon the watter for a wee day oot to Millport. People will be encouraged to walk at their own pace and a distance which suits them. Everyone meet to register at 10.45am at Largs Peir. 25 July THE THREE B’S THE BRAES, BRANDY AND BLUEBELL WOODS (LINEAR 10.0KM/6.2MLS) This linear walk will take us from Glen Lodge in Gleniffer Braes Country Park all the way to Johnstone Railway Station. We shall meander through the Country Park, Brandy Burn Way and Bluebell Woods. Note there are several climbs a steep descent and muddy paths so walking boots are recommended. Walk starts at 11.00am At Glen Lodge Visitor Centre, Glenfield Road, Paisley. 8 August LAND “O”BURNS HERITAGE WALK (CIRCULAR 13.2KM/8.25MLS) Today’s walk is generally level on pavements, cycle tracks and grassy surfaces. It takes us through Belleisle Park and then into the Land O’ Burns where we will visit the Experience Centre, the Poet’s Path, the Memorial Gardens, and the Auld Brig, where Tam’s horse Meg lost her tail! Some parts may be muddy, and comfortable sensible footwear is advised. Walk starts at 10.45am at Railway Station.

14 22 August GREETO FALLS (CIRCULAR 6.4KM/4.0MLS) Today our walk takes us to Largs. The very picturesque Greeto Falls lies about 150 metres above the town. The route takes us into Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park for some spectacular views over the Clyde. The walk is very rough underfoot and comfortable walking boots are recommended. The walk is challenging please don’t be fooled by the short mileage. Walk starts at 11.00am at Largs Peir. 5 September GOLDENBERRY HILL (CIRCULAR 7.0KM/4.5MLS) Join us today as we visit the beach at West Kilbride and walk towards Portencross. We shall then climb Goldenberry Hill for fantastic views along the coast, before returning to West Kilbride. Comfortable boots are recommended. Walk starts at 11.00am at West Kilbride Railway Station. 19 September GLENIFFER ADVENTURE (CIRCULAR 12.2KM/7.5MLS) Our walk today will take us from Glen Lodge around part of the perimeter of the Gleniffer Braes Country Park. We will take in some fantastic views from some of the high spots overlooking the Clyde Valley and up to the Arrochar Alps. We may even see some highland coos ! Rough path walking so boots advised. Walk starts at 11.00am at Glen Lodge Visitor Centre, Glenfield Road, Paisley.

15 3 October BELLAHOUSTON AND POLLOK PARKS (CIRCULAR 12.0KM/7.5MLS) Today we will enjoy a wander through the parks and explore hidden treasures. The route is mainly flat but there is a steep section up to the sunken garden. Much of the route is on tarmac paths but there are some sections of dirt tracks. Walk starts 10.30am at Bellahouston Park Sports Centre, Glasgow. 17 October HOWWOOD UP AND OVER TO JOHNSTONE (LINEAR 7.02.0MLS/MLS/11.25KM) Join us today as we embark on a more strenuous walk starting from Howwood railway station. We will steady climb over varied terrain and across open farm land, to reach the trig point and work our way down through the upgraded pathways in Rannoch and Bluebell woods. This walk is not for a beginner and comfortable stout walking boots are highly recommended. Walk Starts at 10.30am at Howwood Railway Station. 31 October DREGHORN CIRCULAR (CIRCULAR 13.0KM/8.0MLS) Join us today as we visit the Ayrshire town of Irvine where we will enjoy a circular walk taking us through the neighbouring town of Dreghorn. This walk is on paths and tracks. Comfortable boots are recommended. Walk starts at 11.00am at .

16 14 November RENFREW HERITAGE TRAIL (CIRCULAR 14.5KM/9.0MLS) Today we will discover more about Renfrew’s rich and varied heritage by visiting a number of sites. The trail will take in Marjory Bruce Cairn, Argyll Stones, Ferry Green and Air Ambulance Memorial. Along the way we will pass many points of interest. The walk is on the flat, and predominantly paved, although there may be some muddy areas. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Walk starts at 10.30am at the Marjory Bruce Cairn on Renfrew Road, across from Tesco Express. 28 November OVER THE TOP TO THE TAIL O’ THE BANK (LINEAR 11.1KM/7.0MLS) Today we follow the multi-purpose route north from Kilmacolm to Port Glasgow and on to Greenock. As we travel along above the Port we hopefully will get great views over the Clyde to the mountains beyond. The route is on tarmac throughout so sensible footwear is recommended. The walk starts from Kilmacolm Library at 11.00am. 5 December TINSEL WALK (CIRCULAR 3.5KMS/2.0MLS) Come along and enjoy the festivities as we venture through the village of Lochwinnoch singing a few Christmas songs and enjoy the festive atmosphere. This walk is a level which is suitable for all levels of walkers and people are encouraged to walk at their own pace! Walk Starts at 11.00am at Castle Semple Visitors Centre, Lochwinnoch.

17 Saturday 18 August 2018 Come along and join us as we Walk About A Bit on a 10 mile walking event in partnership with Sports Services Team, Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and The Renfrewshire Walking Network..The route is totally flat and divided up into 2 mile sections which makes it accessible to all levels of ability and is open to everyone including community groups and families. There are water stations and exit points along the route, where walkers are able to join or leave the walk. Why not join us and see how far you can walk - 2 miles or 10 miles each mile is an achievement Registration starts at 9.30am at Canal Station Restaurant Walk starts at 10.00am Station 1 – Elderslie Station 2 – Johnstone Station 3 – Kilbarchan Station 4 – Howwood Station 5 – Lochwinnoch - Castle Semple – Finish Line

For more information on walking groups available in Renfrewshire please contact : Sports Services Team Community Activity Officer on 0141 618 5892

Please call and register. Sign ups can be done on the day!

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