Walk from Duncow/Quarrelwood to Duncow Common

A linear walk into low hills with spectacular panoramic views of lower Nithsdale. Initially walking on level roads and tracks, then through grassy fields and along an agricultural track. Parts can be muddy after rain. Unlocked field gates provide access. Some moderate gradients. DG1 1TA Grid Ref NX 965833

Jun - Oct

From Duncow to Longbank, Smithtown and Quarrelwood turn 0.5 miles / 0.8km From Longbank, Smithtown and Quarrelwood turn to destination 1.25 miles / 2km Total return walk 3.5 miles /5.6km Allow 1.5 – 2 hours

This walk is the last in our book and encourages you to be a little more adventurous. It requires a bit more effort than most of our other walks, but is very worthwhile as it presents some particularly attractive scenery and stunning views. There are several streams and springs across the route so some areas can be a little wet or muddy underfoot. Sensible waterproof footwear recommended.

Because parking can be difficult near Quarrelwood, this walk starts from Duncow school, where you will be able to park either on the road beside the school playground, or in the park across from the school. There is an entrance to the park at the corner gates beside the main road. Head along the main road from the school for about 700 yards, and turn right into the road signposted for Longbank, Smithtown and Quarrelwood. As you approach Quarrelwood, at a right hand bend in the road, turn left into the track leading to Smithtown farm. Follow the farm track and turn right immediately before the farm gate. This short lane will lead you through another gate and into a field.

Start climbing diagonally across the field, towards the top of the hill, which is the site of an Iron Age hill fort, remembering to turn regularly to enjoy the panoramic view that will open up very quickly as you climb. You will be looking across the broad valley of the river Nith, taking in what is surely one of the most beautiful stretches of scenery in south west Scotland - from the imposing outline of Criffel in the southeast to the layers of distant hills in the southwest of Dumfriesshire. Carry on over the top of the hill and you will see a gate in the left hand wall of the field. Once through the gate follow the wall along the right hand side, and you will find another gate on that side. As you pass through the gate you will notice Newlands House sitting among the trees ahead of you. Travelling downhill, move diagonally left across the field to find a gate near the bottom of the left hand wall. Passing through that gate stay close to the wall on the right hand side as the ground can be wetter and muddier further from the wall and travel along to the next gate. Once through the gate, go straight ahead and turn left as you reach the top of a small ridge. Follow this ridge for a little distance and it will dip towards a gate in the wall beside the ruined building of Woodfoot. Follow the path as it winds uphill. This area can be wet underfoot, with spring water also trickling through farm tracks. It can be easier sometimes to avoid the rutted tracks and to find your own path uphill across dry bracken or less wet sections of the hillside. As you travel uphill, remember again to look behind, as the hills of the Lake District are clearly visible on the horizon, with Criffel also sharply outlined. You will shortly reach the wall beside Clonfeckle farm. In front of you is the expanse of Duncow Common, and standing dramatically against the sky is one of the highest hills of the parish, topped by a cluster of conifers and known as the Watchman. This walk ends here at Clonfeckle, where you turn for the downhill journey and a second chance to enjoy the scenery.

The Lake District from behind Quarrelwood