NEWCASTLE AND MARDU CIRCULAR Level Easy Elevation gain 217m Length 6.1km (1hr 49min) Description This round-the-hill loop trail from Newcastle leads through peaceful rural landscapes and small village

14.5km / 9 miles / 5-5.5 hours Ascent 777m/2550ft

No need for blood, sweat or tears here, as the smiles break out on the easier edge of the Southern Uplands ’ Galloway Hills.

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

18.5km / 11.5 miles / 6.5 hours Ascent 489m/1605ft

Jeremy Ellwood ticks three more courses off his list in this northerly Scottish county, which is blessed with golf aplenty both on the coast and a little inland