new abbey

We parked in the carpark at Cairn Holy then crossed several fields skirting the sheep and over a couple of dykes keeping to the west side of the burn. We then followed the path along the side of Cairn Holy hill until the burn almost disappeared. Then crossed the last dyke and up to the circle. We then went on to Cauldside Burn cairn and ruined circle. It all took a full afternoon in fine weather. Would not have fancied it in anything less. On our return there was a warning note from the police on the car about not leaving vehicles unattended.

By far the easiest way of course would be to drive along the lane to Claughreid farm and ask to park then follow the track to the circle.

Head west on ‘the old military road’ from Cargenbridge to Lochfoot. Stop just before Easthill farm and park on the right hand verge as tight to the wall as poss to allow wide vehicles to get past. Go into field keeping to edges to avoid any animals or crops and head up steep hill. Keep to the outside edge of the wood at top of field. Cross dyke at the top corner. Head uphill again to circle. Come back to road very same way. Other ways in or out are dead ends.

No need to negotiate barbed wire and dykes anymore. There is now a sign ‘to the standing stones’ on the left at the big sheds as you drive up the road. Keep a good look out for it. Park there and it’s an easy walk up the side of the golf course to the stones. Unfortunately we didn’t spot the sign until we were driving back!

The ‘Long Cairn’ is no longer in the forest. As per Greywether’s directions, follow the track from the cottages to the second fence then look east with binocs to spot the cairns amongst the old tree stumps. Ground beyond boundary fence is very tricky indeed.