Explore · Walks and nature
Woodland reserves, riverside paths, hill climbs and the Solway shore. Choose by how much time and weather you have, then check the route before you set out.
These entries are compiled from general public information and are due a final check before we publish them. Opening days, menus and access change with the seasons, so please confirm directly with the venue or landowner before you travel.
We only publish a distance or walking time once we have checked it against a specific, named route. Until then we describe the character of each walk instead of quoting numbers we cannot stand behind.
Walks you can do in an hour or two, boots optional.
Woodland reserve paths
A small woodland reserve on the edge of Lockerbie with a network of paths through the trees. A good first walk with a dog, and easy to shorten if the weather turns.
Terrain: Woodland paths, generally level with short slopes.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on a lead in most reserve settings; check the reserve's own notices on arrival.
Check current detailsLochside paths
A loch with paths around part of its shore and a ruined castle to look at across the water. Birdlife is the draw here, so take binoculars if you have them.
Terrain: Level lochside paths with some uneven ground.
Dogs: Check local signage, particularly around birdlife areas.
Check current detailsRiverside walk
A riverside walk at Langholm taking in the Duchess Bridge, an easy outing that can be stretched or cut short along the water.
Terrain: Riverside paths, mostly flat.
Dogs: Under control near the water and any livestock.
Check current detailsA little more height, a little more weather.
Estate and riverside walk
A walk through the Hoddom area with the old Repentance Tower as its landmark. Combine it with the river for a half day out; the ground can be soft after rain.
Terrain: Farmland, tracks and riverside ground; can be muddy.
Dogs: Livestock is likely. Keep dogs on a lead around fields.
Check current detailsEstuary and shoreline walk
An estuary walk where the Annan meets the Solway. Big skies, wading birds and a strong sense of space. Tides and wind matter here, so plan around them.
Terrain: Flat shoreline and embankment paths, exposed to wind.
Dogs: Great for dogs, but keep them away from the water's edge and wildlife.
Check current detailsNature reserve
Reserve paths across the Caerlaverock wetlands, a well-known place for wintering wildfowl. Combine with the castle for a full day on the coast.
Terrain: Flat reserve paths and hides; some wet ground.
Dogs: Reserve rules restrict dogs to certain paths. Check before you set out.
Check current detailsHill walk with a Roman site
A short, steep climb to a hilltop with a Roman siege site and a wide view over Annandale. More effort than distance.
Terrain: Steep grass and hill paths; sturdy shoes needed.
Dogs: Livestock likely on the hill. Lead advised.
Check current detailsHill walk with a monument
A hill above Langholm with a monument at the top and views across the town and surrounding hills. A steady climb rather than a long one.
Terrain: Hill tracks and open ground; weather changes fast.
Dogs: Under control, particularly near grazing land.
Check current detailsA proper day out, worth setting off early for.
Upland excursion
A dramatic upland outing near Moffat, taking in a tall waterfall and the loch above it. Treated as its own day out rather than a quick stop, and best on a clear day.
Terrain: Steep, rocky upland path. Proper boots and waterproofs.
Dogs: Suitable for fit dogs, but steep ground and livestock demand care.
Check current detailsMost of these routes suit a dog, but livestock, nesting birds and reserve rules all change what is sensible. Check signage at each car park, keep leads to hand and take your dog's waste home with you.
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