Carsethorn - Powillimount - Arbigland - Carsethorn

Walk along part of the Solway Firth on a fine, firm, sandy beach and around a couple of rocky headlands, then along lanes to reach the museum devoted to local man John Paul Jones (1747 – 1792), 'Father of the American Navy' – and traitor to his own country. Further along comes Arbigland House Gardens, whence you may choose to return along lanes and minor roads or via the beach again.

Returning along the lanes yields fine views of Criffel (569m), which because of its isolated position assumes greater significance in the otherwise flat landscape.

This route offers generally level, easy walking, but has been given a 'moderate' rating because of its length and some rocky sections near the headlands. The stretch around Borron Point (Waymark 4) may be impassable at high tide, so do time your walk accordingly. Do not count on the Steamboat Inn being open if you walk this route 'out of season'. It only opens at weekends from about mid-October, quite understandable given that Carsethorn is both tiny and isolated. Also it seems not to open on a Monday.

Information for Dog Owners: subject to the normal precautions to be observed by dog-owners when walking in sheep country, this walk is considered suitable for biddable dogs.

Scotland - Dumfries & Galloway - Solway Coast

View a road map to the starting point of this walk.