I have always wanted to get up close to Semple Temple and today
I managed it! I have placed this cache in the hope of encouraging
others to visit this beautiful building.
From wikipedia .... The small temple building or folly on the
Kenmure Hill knoll to the northern end of Castle Semple loch is one
of the few remains of the Castle Semple estate. Col. William
MacDowell was responsible for the 'Temple' and also for building of
Castle Semple House, which was destroyed by fire in 1935. All that
remains of this 900-acre (3.6 km2) estate is the folly, a walled
garden and a pair of gate arches.
The cache is easily accessed from the National Cycle Route #7
(Glasgow to Irvine). Its possible to take your bike right to the
top, however you will probably need to push it nearer the top. (At
least I did!!).
Access point from the cycle path : N55' 48.757 W004' 34.654.
If you are on foot then simply follow the GPS from this point,
and chose your climb!
If you are cycling then go through the access point and follow
the path round for about 500 yards until you reach N55' 48.550
W004' 34.859. Here start the climb by going through the path
between the trees and after them climbing to your left. I suggest
heading straight to the Temple, and leaving your bike there, while
you cover the last couple of hundred yards without the bike.
The cache is not situated right next to the Temple, but close
by. Its is a small camoflagued tupperware tub, with room for small
swaps or geocoins.
Enjoy the view from the Temple.
The cycle track leads you to/from Lochwinnoch (aprox a mile
away), where you can enjoy a rest by the Loch, or spend some time
in the visitors centre. (Don't forget bread for the swans!).
There is also Castle Semple Collegiate Church along the side of
the cycle track which is definitely worth a look. If walking from
the temple to Lochwinnoch its on your right hand side before you
reach the Loch. Follow the footpath round to it and you can go
inside.
If travelling by car I suggest parking at Castle Semple Visitor
Centre (PA12 4EA) and walking to the cache from there along the
cycle track.
I wouldn't suggest this cache for wheelchair users or
pushchairs, its just too steep.
Please remember to respect the land, do not leave rubbish, &
ensure the gate is closed behind you. If there is livestock in the
field then please take care around it, you don't want an upset
cow!
