|
Dalry sits on the river Garnock, and while it is for size the smallest of Ayrshire's rivers, the salmon run that starts in July draws fishermen from around the world to the stretch of river between Dalry and Kilbirnie. Human existence in the Dalry area dates back to the age of its Neolithic monuments and iron age hill fort.
The town was an almost insignificant village until the nineteenth century when the iron mines and associated works fed a population boom, accompanied by the growth of textile mills. When the mines petered out, brickworks took their place, and Dalry remained an industrial and commercial centre until after World War II.
Activities and attractions
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, the largest such park in Scotland, lies just to the north and west of Dalry. The single track Dalry Moor road leads to the coast and offers walkers and cyclists grand views of the Clyde. Further north the Castle Semple Visitor's centre is set in a country park with footpaths, boat and cycle hire and a variety of outdoor activities. Clyde Muirshiel extends all the way to the end of the peninsula at Lunderston Bay. This being the stretch of sandy beach nearest to Glasgow, it is often somewhat crowded, but it is a fine spot to fly a kite, watch the boats on the loch or explore the footpaths behind the beach. Clyde Muirshile also shelters the endangered hen harrier, a native bird of prey almost exterminated because of its taste for grouse. The sight of the silvery-grey male harriers skimming low over the moorland in search of rodents or small birds is one of the great treats the park offers.
Just outside the town lies Lynn Glenn with its somewhat contradictory reputation. The tiny valley was reputed to be a haunt of witches, fairies and other unearthly creatures, but when Alexander Peden, the great covenanting minister, came to this area he elected to preach from Peden's Point, a natural pulpit. There is a modern footpath through the area giving access to a series of waterfalls and to Peden's Point.
Dalgarvan Mill near Dalry burned down in 1869, and the current structure dates from the reconstruction at that time, but there has been a mill on the site since at least 1203. Its first known owner was Kilwinning Abbey and after 1622 it pertained to the Blair Estate. The mill now contains the Museum of Ayrshire Country Life and Costume which displays hand tools, farm machinery and clothing from the area.
Access and Places to Stay
Dalry sits on the A737 which joins the M8 just short of Glasgow. Road travel is convenient but may be subject to congestion, especially near the city. Buses connections are frequent and convenient, but rail travel is generally the preferred option. Dining in the area varies from takeaway and tearooms to the famous Braidwoods with its proud Michelin star. Lodging may involve self-catering accommodation, guest house or B&B rooms, hotels or a local castle that hires itself out to visiting parties.
Accommodation in Dalry
Show Bed & Breakfasts in Dalry
Show Hotels in Dalry
Show Cottages in Dalry
Show Holiday Apartments in Dalry
Show Caravan Parks & Camping Sites in Dalry
| 
