Fashioned out of disused sand and gravel pits in the 1980s, the sand banks, ponds, woodland and riverbank are now a haven for invertebrates, plants and birds. The sheltered conditions mean that butterflies and dragonflies can be numerous on a sunny day.
Please note that the roadside section of footpath, on the part of the reserve to the west of the Ayr Road, is closed while North Ayrshire Council widens the pavement. Be directed by them as to access in the vicinity of the works.
Why visit?
Highlights include:
- Butterflies
- Wildflowers
Best time to visit?
- Summer for insects
Visit for:
- wildflowers
- pond
- butterflies
Other information
Bladderwort, a carnivorous aquatic plant indicates the water in the ponds is very clean. Quiet, grassy paths lead around the ponds to the riverbank.
Shewalton Sandpits is one of the Irvine Greenspaces.