Maidens Culzean 25th February

Alan McQ, Allan, Davie C, Davie Mc, Dougie, Graham, Gus, Hugh, Johnny, Malcolm, Rex, Robert

Constant rain was forecast, and it proved to be correct, so the proposed Straiton walk was postponed in favour of a walk at Culzean where some shelter could be gained. Meeting at Maidens, we set off at about ten past ten (the Kilmarnock charabanc being delayed) and, with umbrellas to the fore, made our way along the road through the caravan park and to the entrance to the country park. Most then turned left along a path whilst the rest continued up the road to the Swan Pond. The group re-assembled at the head of the pond and made for our usual coffee spot at the howff beside the Battery. Currently, there is no charge for eating here but, after a vote, it was decided to continue up to the café at Home Farm and purchase coffees/scones there. This proved to be a welcome stop as it allowed us to get dried off, being wet from the inside, as the mild temperature today had caught most out with too many layers.

Disappointingly for some, the book shop was closed so we started to retrace our steps back to Maidens with most taking the cliff path whilst wee Davie and his escort, Alan, took to the path to the Swan Pond and waited for the guys to join them. It was ten to one when we arrived back at the cars having done the best part of six miles. Underfoot had been mucky in places, not surprising given the amount of rain that had fallen recently, and although it rained constantly it was not heavy rain and hadn’t been much of a problem. As said before, we were more wet from the inside out.

Lunch was taken here before we set off for the Dunure Inn for FRT where Johnny was presented with a bottle of whisky in appreciation of Helen and him hosting the Burns Supper. Wee Davie bought the first round to celebrate the birth of his grandson, Fraser. Thanks, Davie, and we wish the best to Fraser, Jennifer and Richard.

A good time was spent here, as usual.