Cumnock to the A-Frame 28 September

Allan, Davie Mc, Dougie, Gus, Hugh, Jimmy, Johnny, Rex, Robert

Meeting at Knockroon on a bright, late September morning, we wasted little time in getting under way on our walk to the A-Frame. Jimmy led us back towards Auchinleck but, just beyond the turnoff to Rigg Road, we took a path to the left which led us down to the familiar track by the Lugar. From here we simply followed the path to Dumfries House where we stopped for coffee at the café. Davie and Isla, however, continued up to the shelter at the arboretum, which was locked, and waited for us there. The gardens were looking good, although the grass in the arboretum was looking a bit unkempt, and there was a thought to go up to the walled garden, but the front markers had already set off towards the Barony A-Frame. The rest of us agreed that we would visit the garden on the way back.

As we approached the A-Frame, Davie suggested that we walk on to Ochiltree instead, before re-tracing our steps, but Johnny preferred the original plan and, with most agreeing to it, we made the benches under the structure for lunch. We got the slightest of rain showers at this point, but it lasted no time at all, and we sat enjoying our pieces in the sunshine.

We returned the way we had come, but deviated up to the walled garden and were impressed by the planting and the variety of vegetables on display. It was about two o’clock when we returned to the cars making it four hours for seven and a half miles. A decent enough walk, in excellent conditions. No FRT today as we were partaking of a curry in the evening to celebrate Malcolm’s 72^nd birthday.

We were joined by Alan, Billy, Ian, Malcolm, and Peter for our meal at the Jewel which, as always, did us proud. Thanks again, folks, and happy birthday on the 1^st, Malcolm. Another good night out!