Durisdeer
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 6.5 kms | 1 1/2 - 3 1/2 hours | 380 metres | Explorer 329: Lowther Hills, Sanquhar & Leadhills |
Description
Follow the dead end road to the right of the church and churchyard. Pass through the gate at the road end and follow the track alongside the wall. When you reachthe fingerpost to Durisdeer Roman Fortlet climb the ladder stile to the lower track and descend to the ford on route to the second ladder stile. Cross the stile and turn right following the rutted grass track to the fort. This track follows the line of a Roman Road past the southeast side of the fort that rises from the surrounding ground like a surfacing submarine. After visiting the fort you can return via the same route or continue cross-country to make a longer circular walk.
For the longer option continue along the track past the fort and on reaching the tin hut head cross country aiming for the angle in the wall. You will be crossing various burns and it is best to pick a route over higher and drier ground. On reaching the wall follow it uphill to the saddle between the hills. At the top you will find a gate in the wall giving access to the hill track. Turn right along the track to return to Durisdeer.
Access Info
From Dumfries follow the A76 Glasgow Road through Thornhill to Carronbridge. Turn right on to the A702 Edinburgh Road heading for Durisdeer and after three miles you will reach the Durisdeer junction to the right, where you can park in the village square.
Additional Info
Durisdeer Church is well worth investigating. Unusually grandiose for its remote setting, this fine building needs to be seen in the context of the historical importance of the Duke as representative of the monarchy in Scotland. Of particular interest are the Queensbury marbles, the Queensbury Aisle and the martyr's monument (to the left, outside the main entrance).
Durisdeer Roman Fortlet is one of the best preserved Roman fortlets in Britain
