Nithsdale is an excellent location to enjoy a short cycling break, the peaceful and friendly villages with a mix of farmland, forestry, lochs and rolling hills, together with a mild climate, situated just over the border from England.

HOME OF THE PEDAL CYCLE

Uniquely to this area, in 1839 Kirkpatrick McMillan invented the first pedal cycle at Courthill smithy, Keir Mill, situated a few miles from Thornhill.

We have a selection of countryside routes in and around the Thornhill area, all taking in the quieter back roads giving you the chance to experience the beautiful scenery and tranquil landscape of Nithsdale. We have copies of these routes on request.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Our area is becoming increasingly popular for Mountain Biking, with a choice of locations within a short drive from the village.

Riks Red Route at Mabie forest welcomes the experienced Mountain Biker, voted one of the top 20 places to cycle in Britain.

Ae Forest hosts the SCU's Scottish National series and offers 4 routes with varying grades.

Since 2002 Drumlanrig Estate has played host to the National Points Series and Scottish cross country Mountain Bike Championships. A trail was specially constructed for this and is now a way marked trail, constantly evolving with new single track sections being added to extend the overall distance. There are three way marked trails and a host of other options to explore.

Route 5 - The Championship Loop. 10 miles of challenging singletrack. Incorporating stiff climbs, steep rock infested descents and long flowing singletrack trails to keep the enthusiast grinning.

Route 6 - The Nith Linns Loop. 6 miles of mixed trail, broad and easy track with harder options to test the adventurous (put 1 & 2 together for an excellent 12 mile singletrack challenge). The Linns mixes forest rides with a superb descent beside the spectacular River Nith Gorge.

Route 7 - Auchenknight Adventure Route. This route is a series of undulating climbs with the reward of one big descent giving stunning views across the Castle and surrounding Nith Valley. This route is on broad forest track or single track tarmac road and is suitable for any bike with lots of gears.