The Pineapple Ring (2.2 miles)
This circular walk takes in three historical buildings in varying states of abandonment. Just outside Airth on the A905 is a brown sign directing you to The Pineapple. We turn on to the B9124 and almost immediately bear right into the grounds of the old Dunmore Estate. The rather uneven access road brings you to a small car park after half a mile, just outside a walled garden. Take a walk into the huge compound and marvel at the quirky Pineapple Building - built in 1761 as a summer house for the Earl of Dunmore and now in the care of the National Trust. The fruit-shaped cupola features intricate stonework which has been perfectly carved to prevent the accumulation of water and potential frost damage.
Head back out to the car park and walk parallel to the high wall, angling right towards a gateway in another wall ahead. Once through this gap, turn right and gaze across the field to your left. You should see the remains of Elphinstone Tower a few hundred yards away. Sweep left at a path junction, dropping in height and then follow the farm road towards the old tower house. The structure dates from the early 1500s and is now in a crumbling state and becoming increasingly swamped by vegetation. Have a look around then keep following the farm track in an anti-clockwise direction.
As you approach a large white bungalow, look left towards the remains of Dunmore Park House. The mansion was built around 1820 but was abandoned in the mid-1960s. Only the outer shell is left today but the stunning crenellated architecture demands a closer inspection. Take the rough path over to the building and have a stroll around before exploring the interior. It is possible to descend to cellar level. In one respect it's sad that such a grand residence has been reduced to such a state with the resulting loss of heritage but many other mansions suffered a similar financial fate and were subsequently demolished completely. At least we are left with a reminder here at Dunmore.
Once you have finished poking around in the house, head across to the the stable block which is also in a dilapidated condition. Pick up the main track again and stick to the anti-clockwise circuit, bearing left at the next junction. We now pass through a deforested area and take a left turn on to a narrower woodland path, indicated by a wooden sign. Follow this route through the trees and shrubbery to arrive back at the walled garden and Pineapple. Have a lengthier look around this time before passing through the gateway into the car park.
