Waterloo Monument and Criffel hill

Waterloo Monument 
 

Waterloo was build in 1810, it is an impressive 150ft tower in the hills close to New Abbey,. The walk is enjoyable short but steep walk from the village to the tower, if you are looking for something to do for a couple of hours I would highly recommend.

To start park at the corn exchange walk out towards the monument this is mostly flat and some old forest then you will see a sign (you do have to look for it). Turn left into the forest and you will start going uphill through woodlands then the path splits into a Y follow the sign to the left. This is where it gets steep and if you are slightly unfit like me you will need a wee break half way on one of the side stones. Keep walking where you will see the lovely tower. You can climb up the to the tower, be warned it’s not for the faint hearted it’s small and spiral! However when you get to the top the views are amazing over the Solway firth.

Criffel Hill 

 

Criffel is our ‘local hill’ it offers lovely views across Galloway, Dumfries, Solway Firth and the Lake District. Criffel may only be 569 meters high but its modest altitude belies its prominence. The ascent is short but steep and should take you about 2 hours. So get those walking boots on and set off. And please be prepared for every eventuality including packing waterproofs, water, compass, phone, an extra jumper and a few biscuits in your backpack.

Best to start from Ardwall by New Abbey (Grid Ref NX970634). There is a walkers’ car park at the end of the unsigned minor road to Ardwall. From the car park entrance, cross the track to the farm and go through the kissing gate opposite, signed ‘Public path’. After a short distance take a track which branches to the right (waymarker post) and continue to a gate at the entrance to the forest. And then you are on your way.

There is an excellent path through forestry and uphill, it has recently been gravelled all the way to the top.

 

 Wee man was delighted to get to the top!! 

If you would like to read more about Dumfries and Galloways Walks please click on the link below to my other posts https://dumfriesandgallowayplacestowalk.blogspot.com/?m=1