East Ayrshire is the inland part of Ayrshire, mostly rolling farmland and moor, with the Southern Uplands rising along its southern and eastern edges. It is a quiet area, with country parks near the main towns and open hill country further out.

Kilmarnock and the country parks. Dean Castle Country Park, beside Kilmarnock, has woodland paths along the Fenwick Water, and the villages of the Irvine Valley, such as Dunlop, give access to the farmland and low hills to the north.

The Doon Valley and Loch Doon. Further south, Dalmellington and Loch Doon are the gateway to the hills of the Galloway border and the Galloway Forest Park, with forest roads and long moorland walks.

Loudoun Hill and the moors. Loudoun Hill, near Darvel, is a volcanic plug with a short steep path to the top, and the high moorland around Cumnock and Muirkirk is good for longer, quieter days.

Moorland routes can be wet and poorly waymarked, so carry a map and wear waterproof boots.