The Southern Upland Way celebrated its 21st birthday in 2005 and we are keen to continue our support of this 212 mile coast to coast long distance route. Last year we ventured east from our Multi Start at Bruce's Stone, this year we transport you by bus to a point conveniently west of Knowe village from which we will be following the waymarked route back to the former Caldons campsite thereafter returning by a well used path to Bruce's Stone.

We have learned that our walkers enjoy longer distance walks with minimal ascent and particularly using well defined trails. If you fit into that category of walker then this is clearly for you. Having arrived by bus at Knowe village we head generally eastwards from here on in.

The wooded islands of Loch Ochiltree give an idea of how the surrounding countryside would have looked before woodland clearance and grazing. The Deil's Dyke, on the southern slopes of the hill, is a low earthwork of unknown significance.

As we head down to the hamlet of Bargrennan there is a brief glimpse of civilisation as we cross the main Newton Stewart to Girvan Road before we enter the wooded section of the walk roughly following the course of the River Cree. Just south of Clachaneasy we follow the course of the Water of Minnoch via Holm farm before we pick up the Water of Trool. The views eastwards as the wetlands either side of the river open ou are quite spectacular and the walker could easily place themselves in a more highland location.

We will stop off briefly at the Martyrs Tomb, the site where Covenanters were murdered during more troubled times in this tranquil and sedate location. From the former Caldons campsite back to Bruce's Stone, we follow a Forestry Commission waymarked trail back to our start.

This is a rewarding walk, which we are sure will be very popular with our visitors. We ask you to be mindful that despite the grade of this walk you should wear suitable footwear and be prepared for sections of wet ground under foot.