The Strollers and Striders group, affectionately known as the SAS, meet every Tuesday evening from early May until September. As the name implies this walking group is for people of all abilities who would enjoy an evening walk in various parts of this beautiful island in the company of like minded folks. The starting point and route is planned in advance – see list below. Tea or coffee, and biscuits are provided at the end of our exertions. This will be in the Church Centre if we finish nearby, otherwise we have flasks and other equipment stashed in the boot of a car and enjoy fellowship wherever we are.
Each walk lasts for 1 – 1½ hours – over paths, tracks, beaches, quiet roads and pavements. Occasionally we puff up inclines and sometimes encounter muddy patches, midgies, drizzle, downpours or even scorching sunshine. We always enjoy stunning scenery and each others company.
As the name suggests we aim to include people of all abilities and it is also possible to undertake shortened versions of the walk. The pace is leisurely (but you can walk more quickly if you wish), the distance not too far (2-4 miles on average) and the fellowship is warm and sincere.
The walks are open to all (including the four legged variety) and is not confined to church members. All you need is a sturdy pair of shoes or trainers, a pound coin (which is distributed to good causes at the end of the season) and an enthusiasm to join in.
The 2026 Programme of Walks
For all walks please meet at 7.00pm.
May 5th 2026 : LOCH FAD – (meet at the Church Centre)
via Lover’s Walk, Loch Fad Road, Causeway, Lochly Farm, Ashfield F arm and back to Church.
May 12th : PORT BANNATYNE – (meet at Public Park)
via the Loop Port Bannatyne Public Park, Garrison Road, Bogley Road, Gortans Road, Hydro Road and back to Port Bannatyne Park.
May 19th : KINGARTH – (meet at Kingarth Hotel)
via Kingarth Hotel, Kilchattan Bay, through wood to Airstrip, Golf Course, Langalbuinoch Farm, and back to Kingarth Hotel.
May 26th : EASTLANDS FARM – (meet at Eastlands Farm)
via Canada Hill, Golf Course, Ardbrannan Riding School, Bridle Way and back to Eastlands Farm.
June 2nd 2026 : ETTRICK BAY CIRCUIT
June 9th : KILMICHAEL BURIAL GROUND
June 16th : ASCOG
June 23rd : SCALPSIE CIRCUIT
June 30th : DUNAGOIL CIRCUIT
July 7th 2026 : DHU LOCH
July 14th : MOUNT STEWART
July 21st : BRUCHAG ROAD
July 28th : STRAAD CIRCUIT
August 4th 2026 : DRUMREOCH CIRCUIT
August 11th : SKEOCH WOODS
August 18th : ASCOG KERRYCROY
August 25th : WOODEND HOUSE
September 1st 2026 : SKIPPER’S WOOD
September 8th : GREENAN LOCH
September 15th : MOUNT STEWART GARDENS
September 22nd : Dinner – to be arranged