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The 13 best walks in Dumfries and Galloway
Nestled in the southwest of Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway is a region booming with rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and lush forests. As such, you’ll find a wide range of walks in Dumfries and Galloway to make your next UK holiday as special as it can be!
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a couple looking for an active break, or you’re seeking a top-tier family getaway, the walks in Dumfries and Galloway present a captivating experience for all. From peaceful walks alongside the river and coastal strolls, to challenging ascents up hills, this region has something for every type of walker. For instance, you could try the Moffat riverside walk, explore the Castle Loch Circular, or maybe take on the Balcary Circular. Let's explore 13 of the best walks in Dumfries and Galloway that showcase the area's natural beauty and rich history.
The top Dumfries and Galloway walks
With so many fantastic walks in Dumfries and Galloway, you’re spoiled for choice. That being said, there are a few walks that are sure to bring the perfect experience you’re looking for on your next getaway. Here are some of our favourites:
Moffat riverside
Starting off with one of the best walks in Dumfries and Galloway, the Moffat riverside route is a must-add choice to your holiday itinerary. This easy, family-friendly route will have you strolling alongside the River Annan and through the charming town of Moffat.
Find out moreYou’ll get picturesque views and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife in this natural region. And don't forget to explore Moffat's charming town centre before or after your walk, where you can enjoy local cafes and shops.
You can even stay at Moffat Manor Holiday Park to add a touch of luxury and relaxation to your stay, so you have the ideal base for your explorations around the area. The park is less than a 10-minute drive away from the town, where this walk starts.
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: River views, wildlife spotting, historic town centre
Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall & Loch Skeen
For a more challenging route, you can try the Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall and Loch Skeen walk, which is one of the most rewarding walks in Dumfries and Galloway. This dramatic landscape features one of the UK's highest waterfalls, which plunges 60 meters down a rocky hillside. So, have your camera ready!
Find out moreThe initial climb up alongside the waterfall is steep but well-maintained, hence why this walk proves a bit more challenging. The path continues to Loch Skeen, a serene mountain lake surrounded by rugged peaks, so you get to enjoy a healthy mix of natural landscapes on your walk.
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Highlights: Spectacular waterfall, mountain scenery, Loch Skeen
Carlingwark Loch and Castle Douglas
For a gentler walk that combines nature and local history, the Carlingwark Loch and Castle Douglas route is a great choice. Along this walk, you’ll get to circle the picturesque Carlingwark Loch and explore the nearby town of Castle Douglas.
Find out moreThe route follows a flat, well-maintained path around the loch, making it suitable for the whole family. It’s also a great route for birdwatchers, who will appreciate the variety of waterfowl that call the loch home. And, of course, take time to explore Castle Douglas, known as Scotland's Food Town, for its abundance of local produce and artisanal foods.
Length: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Loch views, birdwatching, historic town
Waterloo Monument from New Abbey
This walk offers a good dose of history and stunning views, making it a standout among walks in Dumfries and Galloway. The Waterloo Monument from New Abbey route takes you from the historic village of New Abbey to the Waterloo Monument, perched atop Criffel Hill.
Find out moreYou’ll find the climb to the monument is gradual but sustained, but fear not, because your efforts are ultimately rewarded with panoramic views across the Solway Firth to the Lake District. Before or after your walk, you can also take time to explore the ruins of Sweetheart Abbey.
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Sweeping views, historic monument, Sweetheart Abbey
Annan, Waterfoot and Summergate Lane
Try the Annan, Waterfoot and Summergate Lane route for a circular walk that lets you explore the maritime history of the River Annan. It's a great walk if you want to experience both the urban and rural aspects of Dumfries and Galloway.
Find out moreStarting in the town of Annan, the route follows the river downstream to its mouth at the Solway Firth. This means you’ll pass through peaceful countryside and quiet country lanes. This walk offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, typical of many walks in Dumfries and Galloway.
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: River views, historic town, rural landscapes
Great circular walks in Dumfries and Galloway
Some of the best types of walks are ones where you get to venture across new areas but end up back exactly where you started. Therefore, we’ve compiled some of the best circular walks in Dumfries and Galloway for you and the family to try on your trip:
Castle Loch Circular
The Castle Loch Circular walk in Lochmaben is a delightful route that’s both easy and captivating in the sights you’ll get to see. This walk circumnavigates Castle Loch, offering varied landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Find out moreThe path takes you through woodland, wetland, and open countryside, so you’ll get to experience different sides of nature. Keep an eye out for the ruins of Lochmaben Castle, once a stronghold of Robert the Bruce.
And if you’re driving from Moffat Manor Holiday Park, you can reach the Castle Loch in only around 20 minutes.
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Loch views, birdwatching, ruins of Lochmaben Castle
White Coom Ridge
If you’re up for a more challenging hill walk, the White Coom Ridge: Firthy Brig Head Circular route offers a taste of the region's wilder side. Along this walk, you’ll venture into the heart of the Southern Uplands, a landscape that rivals the scenery of other popular walks in the UK.
Find out moreThe route ascends White Coomb, the highest hill in Dumfriesshire, where you’ll get scenic views across southern Scotland. The terrain can be quite boggy, and weather conditions can change quickly, so proper preparation is essential – and more experienced hikers may be best suited to this route.
Length: 7.5 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Highlights: Mountain views, remote landscapes, a chance to spot wildlife
New Abbey Circular
The New Abbey Circular walk provides some ideal views surrounding the village of New Abbey. It’s a great walk if you want a mix of history, nature, and stunning views. There are a few slopes and climbs along the route, but it’s worth it for the unparalleled views.
Find out moreThe route begins at the impressive ruins of Sweetheart Abbey before climbing gently up the slopes of Criffel Hill. The return leg of the journey offers lovely coastal scenery before bringing you back to New Abbey. Feel free to stop in one of the nicest pubs in New Abbey, The Steamboat Inn, to refuel after your walk.
Length: 8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Sweetheart Abbey, Criffel Hill views, coastal scenery
Caerlaverock Castle and Nature Reserve
The Caerlaverock Castle and Nature Reserve circular walk combines medieval history with natural beauty, making it one of the most diverse walks in Dumfries and Galloway. The route takes you around the magnificent Caerlaverock Castle and through the surrounding nature reserve.
Find out moreThe little ones will definitely be in awe of the fantastic castle, and it’s a great opportunity to have a discussion about times of old and the exciting adventures of kings, queens and knights. The well-maintained paths also wind through woodlands and wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Medieval castle, wetland habitats, birdwatching
Eskrigg Nature Reserve circuit
If you’re a nature lover, the Eskrigg Nature Reserve circuit from Lockerbie is a hidden gem among walks in Dumfries and Galloway. This easy walk provides you with glimpses into a variety of habitats, including woodland, heath, and a picturesque loch.
Find out moreOn your trail, keep an eye out for red squirrels, roe deer, and a variety of bird species – the wildlife sightings are sure to add excitement to your walk. The reserve's centrepiece is a beautiful loch surrounded by mature trees, offering tranquil views and a moment for relaxation.
Length: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Wildlife spotting, diverse habitats, peaceful atmosphere
Fantastic coastal walks in Dumfries and Galloway
Adding even more options to the best walks in Dumfries and Galloway, you’ll also find some great spots for beach strolls. Here are some of the best coastal walks in Dumfries and Galloway to consider for your break:
Balcary Circular
The Balcary Circular walk offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Dumfries and Galloway. This challenging route takes you right along the cliff tops and rocky shores, where you’ll have some of the best sea views you could imagine.
Find out moreStarting from Balcary Bay, the path climbs steeply to the cliff tops, offering breathtaking views out across the Solway Firth – although it can be quite a strenuous walk, especially right near the cliff edges. Also, keep an eye out for seabirds nesting on the cliffs and seals basking on the rocks below.
Length: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, coastal views, a chance to spot seabirds and marine life
Kippford to Castle Point Fort
This coastal walk combines beautiful shoreline views with historic landmarks. The Kippford to Castle Point Fort walk is an excellent choice for those looking to experience both the coastal and inland aspects of walks in Dumfries and Galloway.
Find out moreStarting in the pretty village of Kippford, the route follows the coastline before turning inland into Castle Point Fort. The stone walls of the fort offer a contrast to the open coastal section, so you can mix excitement and tranquillity on your journey.
Length: 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Coastal views, historical fort, charming village of Kippford
Mull of Galloway Circular
The Mull of Galloway Circular takes you along Scotland's most southerly point, where you’ll get spectacular coastal views showcasing the best of Dumfries and Galloway's rugged beauty.
Find out moreWhen walking around the Mull of Galloway, you’ll get to peer across the sea and – on a clear day – experience views of Ireland, the Isle of Man, and England. The path also passes by the historic lighthouse, and if you have time, you can climb it to add even more adventure to your walk.
Length: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Lighthouse, dramatic cliffs, panoramic sea views
Explore the best walks in Dumfries and Galloway on an amazing Scottish holiday
If you’re looking for the best place to enjoy some peaceful and adventurous walks on your next UK break – Dumfries and Galloway is a perfect choice. This region offers a wealth of walking opportunities that rival even the popular Yorkshire Dales walks.
From gentle riverside strolls to more challenging mountain hikes and dramatic coastal paths, this spot has something for every type of walker. By adding some of these 13 walks in Dumfries and Galloway to your trip itinerary, you’ll be setting yourselves up for an unforgettable adventure, full of diverse landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife.
So, slip on your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Scotland on your next getaway!