Annandale Way

Start: Moffat
Grid Ref: NT 08392 04872
End: Annan (Newbiebarns)
Grid Ref: NY 18035 64412
Distance: 90 km
Walking Time: 4 or 5 day options
Counties Traversed: Dumfries and Galloway
OS Explorer™ Maps: 330, 322

The Annandale Way is one of Scotland's Great Trails, a charming long walk in a little-known, but very accessible, part of southern Scotland. It starts in the sheep town of Moffat and runs south for 56 miles (90 km) via Lochmaben to finish at Newbiebarns near Annan. There are superb views from the top of Almagill Hill. A slightly shorter branch of the route goes via Lockerbie and Eskrigg Nature Reserve. The two branches re-join north of Annan to reach the Solway Firth at Newbiebarns.

The guidebook provides itineraries for 4-day and 5-day walks and for the Lochmaben and Lockerbie route options. The first day is a circular walk heading north from Moffat, around the 'Devil's Beef Tub' and returning to Moffat. The remaining days you are heading south to the Solway Firth. The four-day Lochmaben option is given below:

Moffat to Moffat (Devil's Beef Tub Loop) - 13.9 miles
Moffat to Lochmaben - 18.5 miles
Lochmaben to Hoddom Bridge - 14 miles
Hoddom Bridge to the Solway Firth - 9.3 miles
(The five-day itinerary splits the Moffat to Lochmaben leg)

The route is waymarked clearly and consistently throughout and the circular waymarker discs are backed up by fingerposts, larger signs, and in some places white topped posts. For most of its length the Way is straightforward to navigate although in a few places you have to navigate across open field or hillside, so map and compass are essential in case of mist or low cloud.

The Annadale Way links places with a range of accommodation, but room availability is limited so it is essential to pre-book. The guidebook provides further information. The guidebook also includes the following:
Background on Annandale's history and wildlife, with superb images.
Planning information for transport and accommodation.
Lavishly illustrated with over 100 colour photographs.

To purchase the guidebook click the book image or click here