Highlight • Natural Monument
Cairn Table Summit Cairn
Hiking
4.8
(28)
Cairn Table is a summit held in high regard by the folk of Ayrshire. If you’re yearning for uncomplicated hillwalking in a wild and beautifully secluded setting, hikes to Cairn Table might just fit the bill perfectly.
All walking routes to Cairn Table are straightforward ambles on good paths, usually starting from Muirkirk. There’s plenty of historic interest en route. Vestiges of lead, coal and iron ore mining are a characteristic feature of the ascent, whilst the summit is home to a huge pyramidal cairn: a memorial to local heroes who died during the Great War.
A horizon boasting Ben Lomond and the Isle of Arran’s sharp peaks will occupy your gaze whilst you enjoy those well-earned summit snacks. Hen harriers, merlins and peregrines inhabit the skies here, so keep your eyes peeled.
A B&B and a caravan park represent the extent of your accommodation choice in Muirkirk, whilst the villages on the A76 and the town of Kilmarnock offer plenty of other options.
All walking routes to Cairn Table are straightforward ambles on good paths, usually starting from Muirkirk. There’s plenty of historic interest en route. Vestiges of lead, coal and iron ore mining are a characteristic feature of the ascent, whilst the summit is home to a huge pyramidal cairn: a memorial to local heroes who died during the Great War.
A horizon boasting Ben Lomond and the Isle of Arran’s sharp peaks will occupy your gaze whilst you enjoy those well-earned summit snacks. Hen harriers, merlins and peregrines inhabit the skies here, so keep your eyes peeled.
A B&B and a caravan park represent the extent of your accommodation choice in Muirkirk, whilst the villages on the A76 and the town of Kilmarnock offer plenty of other options.
Tips
Mark
October 28, 2018
Hiking
A little swampy at the start but this gives way to rocky paths when the steeper ascent begins.
Incredible 360 degree views of Ayrshire.
Incredible 360 degree views of Ayrshire.
tellingd
July 12, 2025
Hiking
It's a straightforward hike to to the summit, need to avoid the wetter parts on the path and can be a little rocky in places but no scrambling required.
Views from the top a very good - we could just about make out Ben Lomond to the north through the heat haze, and Arran to the west.
Views from the top a very good - we could just about make out Ben Lomond to the north through the heat haze, and Arran to the west.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Cairn Table Summit Cairn
4.4
(10)
99
hikers
9.04km
02:48
330m
330m
Hike the moderate 5.6-mile Cairn Table loop near Muirkirk for panoramic views, historical sites, and a rewarding climb.
Moderate
Details
Informations
Elevation 590 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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