Cycling
The home of Kirkpatrick McMillan, inventor of the first bicycle with pedals, is only a few miles away and the area is renowned for having many exceptional bike trails. The 7 Stanes (or stones) are individually graded trails each featuring a stone sculpture to reflect a local myth or legend.There are also graded trails in the woods surrounding Drumlanrig Castle and bikes can be hired from Rik’s Bike Shed in the stable yard.
Golf
Thornhill Golf Club has an 18 hole golf course and there are two golf courses and a driving range (Tower Wood) at Dumfries.
Horse Riding
Riding lessons, short hacks and full day picnic treks are available at Happy Hooves Equestrian Centre, Sanquhar.
Walking
There are stunning self-guided walks available locally, and a book of local short walks and local maps are available in the cottage. We are a short distance from the Southern Upland Way for those wanting to walk part of the long distance path.
Fishing
The River Nith, Scaur Water and other local lochs and rivers offer fishing. Permits are available for both sea trout and salmon fishing from Drumlanrig Castle. Drum Fishery is a “Catch & release” 8 acre trout loch stocked with rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Blues on the Dalswinton Estate near Auldgirth. Fish from 2lb to 15lb.
History & Art
For the historically-minded, Drumlanrig Castle is a short drive, or bike ride, away and Ellisland, home of Robert Burns, is less than half an hour’s drive. Cample Line is an independent arts organisation dedicated to presenting thought-provoking international contemporary art and film for residents of the region and visitors from further afield. There are also a number of famous outdoor sculptures to be found locally including Andy Goldsworthy’s Striding Arches and Henry Moore’s at Glenkiln.
Eating Out
