What to do in the area
The area around Holmhill is full of things to do, no matter what your interests.
For those interested in a bit of exercise, there are many lovely walks in the nearby Lowther or Keir Hills. The Southern Upland Way also passes within a few miles of Holmhill.
The country roads on either side of the Nith valley are ideal for cycling. We can recommend short, medium or long routes around the local quiet roads. These can include a visit to Keir Mill where in 1839 Kirkpatrick McMillan invented the pedal cycle. Alternatively, there are top class mountain biking trails nearby at Drumlanrig (more below) and Ae Forest.
There are many tremendous golf courses within an hour of Holmhill. These include a Championship course at Southerness, or a James Braid design at Powfoot. For golfers who don’t want to travel too far, there is also a highly regarded local course at Thornhill.
The River Nith provides first class fishing facilities, and local shooting can also be arranged.
For those looking for more leisurely pursuits, a visit to Drumlanrig Castle or Dumfries House should be of huge interest. Or visit one of the many Robert Burns associated venues around Dumfries, such as Ellisland Farm where Burns lived from 1788 to 1791.
Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate is the historic 17th century home of the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry, and is less than 3 miles from Holmhill. Drumlanrig Castle has been used as one of the locations for the Outlander TV series, as has the area around the nearby ruins of Morton Castle.
Drumlanrig Castle is steeped in history, filled with treasures, and boasts beautiful Victorian gardens along with way-marked woodland walks, cycle routes, championship mountain bike trails, and adventure playground for the children. It also offers some of the best sporting opportunities in Scotland.
Bike hire available, tearoom and snack bar. Fabulous events throughout the season. An excellent day out for all the family.
Dumfries and Galloway is becoming known for its landscape sculptures. See works by various artists at Glenkiln, or Andy Goldsworthy’s Striding Arches in various locations.
A recent addition to the local attractions is the Crawick Multiverse, situated just north of Sanquhar. The Crawick Multiverse is a spectacular artland and events venue designed by world renowned landscape artist Charles Jenks. It utilises landscape art to transform a former open cast coal mine into an outdoor space that can be enjoyed by future generations.
For an even wider range of things to do in the area, more detail can be found on the Dumfries and Galloway Tourist Board website. Or if your visiting with children, take a look at Dayoutwiththekids.
