Big adventure in Southern Uplands
Duncanrig Rambling Club is on the move
Duncanrig Rambling Club headed south for two walks in the Southern Uplands and it was a hardy lot that turned up with the weather forecast not favourable.
The high walk started at Wanlockhead which owes its existence to the lead and other mineral deposits in the surrounding hills.
From the village, the group headed into the Lowther hills and the highest point of the walk was at the first hill – Green Lowther at 2401ft – and then on to its near neighbour Lowther Hill at 2378ft.
Both hills have various signalling masts on them and the Lowther one is a regular target for cyclists looking for some challenging hill work on the tarmac ascent road.
It was a demanding climb with several steep sections and is not made easier by the numerous sheep who seem to prefer the tarmac for their toilet habits.
The group then started to head downhill via Cold Moss, Comb Head and light before meeting the waiting coach near an old Roman road beside the A702.
The alternate walk started in the village of Durisdeer before they visited Queensberry Aisle, burial place of the Dukes of Queensberry, designed by James Smith, with a large marble monument to the second Duke (1662- 1711) and Mary, his duchess, carved by Jan van Nost. This is adjoining the Georgian church.
The group left the village and followed a land rover track south. They had the wind and rain in their faces as they climbed up but took shelter in the Kettleton Byre, a bothy maintained by the mountain bothies association.
A tea break was enjoyed and the walk continued when the rain had eased.
The ramblers followed the track round Par Hill, overlooking the Kettleton reservoir below. From here there was a bit of road walking before following the path to Morton castle and Morton woods.
After the walk, the ramblers headed to Thornhill for their social time.
The next walks are this Sunday at Dunkeld, Perthshire. Visitors welcome.
Check out www.duncanrig.com for details on all the club activities. New members welcome.