A short walk to Lanrick Hall

A gentle walk along an old farm track to open moorland. A linear walk, mainly on farm track which can be uneven underfoot and muddy after rain. DG1 1RE Grid Ref NX985849 1.75 miles return

Allow 1 hour

Jun - Oct

It is possible to park near the start of the track, but there is also space for cars in the laybys between Riddingwood House and Netherhall. This is a short, fairly level, easy stroll, providing you have appropriate footwear. It can be very muddy at times! Lanrick Hall, commonly known in the 19th century as Lanarkhall, was a busy farm. The 1851 census shows nine people living there in three separate households. They included a cattle dealer, a shepherd and a farm labourer.

Leaving from the other side of the road from Netherhall Farm, follow the track north. The first hundred yards or so can be rather squelchy underfoot, especially following wet weather. After about 500 yards, you will see a line of trees heading away from the left (west) side of the track. This is Tomsland Cleuch, a steep valley on the Parkburn which flows south, becoming the Eastern boundary of the parish of Kirkmahoe. Continue to follow the track, taking in open views towards Gledenholm Moor and the

Forest of Ae, until you see the ruins of Lanrick Hall in front of you. Continue as the metalled track deteriorates. Go through the gate and you will find yourself approaching the house through the fields. To the right of the house is a clump of trees which appears to have been a garden at one time. Allow yourself time to look around and imagine this place as a working farm and enjoy your surroundings. In the Bronze Age, this area was well populated. There is evidence of earthwork banks and ditches and possible roundhouses. Enclosure banks to the east and south-east of Lanrick Hall are shown on old maps. As you return to the start along the same route, some beautiful views open up towards Dumfries. On a good day, you may get views right across the Solway to the Cumbrian mountains. The ancient hedges which line the track contain a variety of native plants.