Barstobrick and the Neilson Monument

Tony Brotherton

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Several variations of the Barstobrick Farm Trail await you and the walk described is less than three miles long, but includes a short, sharp diversion to Barstobrick Hill's summit and the monument to James Beaumont Neilson. Without the diversion, the route is easy, partly along farm tracks but mainly on broad grass paths. The countryside and views are pleasing throughout. Also available is a wheelchair-friendly Wetland Trail (a shade under a mile in length) with several ponds to explore. There is good disabled access at the visitors' centre (telephone 01557-820227 for information and advice).

The start and finish of both routes is the visitor and equestrian centre, at map ref NX 683597

Barstobrick's opening hours are from 10am to 6pm daily between April and October. During winter months it's weekend opening only.

Information for Wheelchair Users: the Wetland Trail is wheelchair-friendly. It starts and finishes at the car park by the visitors' centre.

Information for Dog Owners: responsible dog-owners are welcome and free poop-scoop bags are available from the visitors' centre!

Scotland - South Scotland - Dumfries and Galloway - Moors

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Cafe, Flowers, Food Shop, Good for Kids, Good for Wheelchairs, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Lake/Loch, Moor, Mostly Flat, Restaurant, Tea Shop, Toilets, Wildlife
10/25/2015 - MIKE DUDLEY

Unfortunately, we arrived at the end of a fairly big equestrian event which probably did not help, but the walk itself did seem a bit cobbled together. There is always a certain allure to climbing up to a monument. This part was enjoyable. It was a short, steep climb to the top. Unfortunately, one had to return back the same way – and unless I misinterpreted the directions - down to point 3. From there, we were then confronted by a solitary bull in the field, and with 2 dogs, decided discretion meant giving the rest of the walk a miss.

7/16/2011 - Shaun McKittrick

A short, but a quality walk! I've often seen this mounument while travelling along the A75 but never knew how/if you could walk to it ... until now. Nice enjoyable walk. Easy to follow instructions from author and paths are well defined. While walking up the hill to Neilson Monument there were tens of baby frogs hopping across the path. It was so cute, we had to watch our steps for about 30 metres until we got past them all. Something I've never, ever seen before. There are signs about detailing how the area is a wetland area etc. So I can only assume that it's ideal habitat for frogs too. Good views from the monument itself and I agree with the author ... the restaurant on site is excellent. Good quality home made food at fantastic prices. Friendly service too.