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Mountain Biking in Nithsdale

In addition to the many exhilarating kilometres of cycle routes available at Drumlanrig, the unspoilt landscapes of Nithsdale provide a scenic backdrop to many more cycle routes.

Ae Forest is one of the 7stanes mountain biking centres spanning the south of Scotland, from the heart of the Scottish Borders to Dumfries and Galloway.

Although Ae Forest is only 20 minutes from the M74 motorway, its constructed path trails will make cyclists think they’re in another world. There are a variety of trails which are suitable for entry level riders and families as well as the more experienced rider.

Cyclists looking to trace the route of the inventor of the pedal bicycle can follow the Kirkpatrick Macmillan trail. Constructed to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the pedal bicycle in 1990, the KM Trail passes through Keir Mill, the birthplace of the first bicycle and ends at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate, which is home to the Scottish Cycle Museum and where Kirkpatrick used to work as a blacksmith.

Also available to cyclists is part of the National Byway, which runs from Newquay to Lochgilphead. Cutting through the natural environment of Nithsdale, the National Byway provides discreet sign-posted direction along some of the most attractive and peaceful rural lanes reaching into the heart of British Heritage.