Welcome to the 7th Annual Upper Nithsdale Walking Festival 2008.

Throughout the year we have the pleasure in welcoming walkers to this unique area to enjoy our stunning countryside, remote walks and our gentle lowland and valley walks.

We are proud to present this year’s Festival Itinerary and invite you to join us on carefully planned and supervised walks, led by our team of experienced leaders. All we ask is that you promptly book your place on your chosen walks; you enjoy yourself and the beauty of Upper Nithsdale!

Walk 1: Wanlockhead to Old Kirkbride
(7 miles/11kms)

This walk starts at Wanlockhead and follows an old drove road to Kitkbride above Enterkin. Very strenuous, but on a clear day, wonderful views of Nithsdale. (Very Strenuous)

Walk 2: Wanlockhead to Sanquhar
(8 miles/12kms)

(Can double up with transport for Walk 1)
Leave Wanlockhead and follow the Southern Upland Way to Sanquhar. Good upland country walk. As this walk follows the Southern Upland Way it ma be self led. (Moderate)

Walk 3: Mavis Bank Kirkconnel
(2 miles/3.5kms)

Self led walk. Follow the River Nith and learn somehting of the past about this former mining village. A seperate village brochure is available from Kirkconnel Parish Heritage Society. (Easy)

Walk 4: Sanquhar Historic Walk.
(2 miles/3kms)

Self led walk through the Historic Royal Burgh. Includes places of interest and Sanquhar Castle. Seperate brochure available at events walking base. (Suitable for all the family).

Walk 5: Overnight Hike to Polskeoch Bothy between Scaur and Ken.
(24 miles/38kms)

Led by an experienced local guide, this walk proceeds via Euchan Glen and the forestry route to the bothy. After overnight stay, return to Sanquhar via Southern Upland Way. Going is moderate, to strenuous, and return distance must be considered. The Bothy is very basic, and overnight food, sleeping bag etc must be carried. Toilet facilities are rustic!! MUST BE PRE BOOKED

Walk 6: Sanquhar to Sanquhar via Mennock, Auchentaggart, Bogg and SUW.
(9 miles/15kms)

A quiet road and track walk which gives good Moorland views and the opportunity to see some interesting historical sites. (Moderate)

Walk 7: Sanquhar Riverside Walk
(4 miles/6kms)

Self led. Walk by Crawick Water, River Nith and follow the river to Kings Scaur. Return to the town via the Castle Loaning. A good walk to see birdlife on the river, and even the elusive kingfisher can be seen. (Easy) Highly Recommended

Walk 8: Euchan Glen
(6 miles/10kms)

An easy walk in beautiful surroundings. Drink from the "Iron" Well and see the falls. Can be tailored to suit participants. Self led if desired. Easy - suitable for all the family

Walk 9: Sanquhar to Scaur Water and Return
(14 miles/22kms)

A fairly strenuous all day walk proceeding via Southern Upland Way to Welltrees (426M) and down into Scaur. Sufficient food and drink for the day must be carried. Return to Sanquhar via an old drove road and the milk can gate. This is a fine day out.

Walk 10: Crawick Glen and the Holm Woods
(5 miles/8kms)

Leave Sanquhar and proceed via Church Road to Crawick. Enter the Holm woods and enjoy the birds and red squirrels! Cross over the bridge at the "Sodger's Pool" so called because it was a popular swimming pool for Napoleonic prisoners in the early 19th Century. Climb up out of the woods, and return to Sanquhar via the tarred road. Easy - suitable for all the family. Self Led.

Walk 11: Kiddies & Toddlers Ramble

Start from the Tolbooth, and walk to the waird to feed the ducks. Then up to Queensberry Square for a picnic and games in the play area. Mums and Dads welcome to carry picnics! Self Led

There are a number of other events and activities taking place in Upper Nithsdale during the festival weekend! Stay with us all weekend and enjoy the Gold Panning Championships in Wanlockhead, music entertainment, a pub quiz and of course our great hospitality!

Self led walks are available to you at any time. For accommodation and transport information, and assistance with booking your accommodation, please contact us or visit our website. We are here to help you find accommodation that suits you AND book it for you!

The Fire Station will be HQ for the Walking Festival and our staff will be available all weekend to assist you.

Please note that unfortunately dogs are not allowed on the Festival walks. This is in line with the policy adopted by all walking festivals in the region. While out walking, please observe the Countryside Code and respect the life and work of our countryside.

This year, 2008 , is the 23rd anniversary of the Southern Upland Way. For further information on events log on to www.suw21.com.