Cycling around Kirkcudbright. Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland.
Castle Douglas and Threave Gardens 20 miles

From the town follow the A711 towards Castle Douglas, crossing Tongland Bridge over the tidal river Dee. In ½ mile, just past Tongland Power Station, turn right down to Old Tongland Bridge and follow this quiet undulating minor road to Rhonehouse (6½ miles).  At the cross roads in the village, carry straight on.  Within ¼ mile, turn right down a minor road passing Kelton Hill Farm and up a short rise.  From the top of the rise, near a cottage, there is a good view north to the Galloway Hills.  The descent is by the boundary of Threave Gardens (NTS), to a junction (to join the National Cycle  Route 7), to the right of the entrance to the Gardens.  Turn right for the Gardens; or left and cycle along to the main road leading into Castle Douglas.  Alongside the main road is a cycle path, close to Carlingwark  Loch, for the remaining ¾ mile into town which finishes at the bottom of Queen Street.  The toilets and Tourist Office are in the Market Hill car park at the top of the Queen Street. To continue the tour, take the second right turn along Queen Street, sign posted B736 Gelston, and follow this out of town passing near the other side of Carlingwark.  Beyond the cemetery, the road is level and straight for the 1½ miles to the junction with the B727.  Turn right, and climb the short hill into Gelston village (no facilities).

Continue through the village, ( re-joining  National Cycle  Route 7), and cycle along the quiet country  road for 3 miles, gradually rising to the high point at Sheillahill Farm.  Along this length there are views across to the nearby Screel Hill and Bengairn on the left.  In another 2 miles pass the side road to Whinnieliggate, and continue down to Kirkcudbright, passing the Wildlife Park en-route.

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