Euchan Water Walk near Sanquhar

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
4 kms	01:30 (hrs:mins)	50 metres	Explorer 328: Sanquhar & New Cumnock

Description

This has been a popular walk with local people for a very long time. The Euchan Water runs through a dramatic wooded valley, while the return walk along a quiet lane has wide views across Upper Nithsdale. Start from the car park at Blackaddie Bridge on the edge of Sanquhar, where the Southern Upland Way crosses the River Nith. Cross the bridge and turn left at the crossroads. Walk along the road until you reach Euchan Bridge, where a path runs from in front of the house on your right, up the Euchan Water. The path runs through a wooded glen, with the river not far away. In spring, the wildflowers are a riot of colour. The short steep slope just past the footbridge is actually the rampart of Kemp's Castle - nothing else remains of the fortifications. The path runs high above the gorge of the Euchan Water, shaded by large oak trees. There are dramatic views down into the rocky gorge - but do take care as there are some steep drops! After a while, the path truns away from the river, and running alongside a wall, crosses a field. Take care not to disturb the sheep or catttle here - if you have a dog with you, keep it on the lead. A short section of boardwalk crosses a boggy section, leading you to a small gate and the quiet lane, which will take you back to Sanquhar. You could explore further on up the Euchan Water, following the lane. This walk runs back between green fields, bringing you back to Blackaddie Bridge and Sanquhar. The views along this stretch of the walk contrast with those beside the river - in fromt of you are wide views over the River Nith and to the Lowther Hills.

Access Info

From Dumfries, follow the A76 to Sanquhar, head for Blackaddie Bridge car park and picnic area on the Southern Upland Way - NS775097
Public transport bus number - 246 from Dumfries