The Knock Circular, Largs
I led a lively rambler group from Largs Ferry Terminal, the Clyde’s salty breeze kicking off our 13km adventure. We strolled along the vibrant coast, waves crashing, then wandered through peaceful farmland to The Knock.
At this Iron Age hillfort (c. 1000–300 BCE), I tricked the group—while they looped around the gentler path, I raced up the steep track to the trig point at 217m, chuckling as I claimed the summit first!
From the ancient, vitrified ramparts, we gazed across the dazzling Firth of Clyde, spotting Cumbraes, Arran, and Bute.
We descended through woodland, returned along the coast, and celebrated with Nardini’s creamy ice cream—pure magic!
Terrain: Quiet roads, tarmac paths, and rough tracks. Knock Hill’s paths can be boggy, and the trig point climb is steep—wear sturdy boots!
Distance: 13 km
Duration: ~5 hours
Ascent: 268m to 217m max height
Start Point: Largs Ferry Terminal, western end of Largs Main Street (Grid Ref: NS 201594; 40 miles / 1 hr from Helensburgh)
Maps: OS Landranger 63 (Firth of Clyde) for broad navigation; OS Explorer 341 (Greenock, Largs and Millport) for detailed trails. Use the latest Explorer 341 for current paths.
