Glentrool to Martyrs’ Tomb

Circular forest and woodland walk, 7km/4½ miles long. Allow 2½ hours to complete. Covers minor road and hard surface path and track.

Beaten earth, soft in places. Stout shoes or boots recommended

From Newton Stewart, follow the A714 towards Girvan, turning right at Bargrennan to Glentrool village. Follow signs to the large car park at Glen Trool visitor centre (open from April to the end of October).

Start from the visitor centre, follow the yellow waymarkers. The trail winds through the forest with small numbers of more exotic species such as grand fir amongst the Sitka and Norway spruce. Continue through the forest, passing Spout Head waterfall and enjoy views to Lamachan and Larg hill as you approach Caldons House. Pass by the house through ancient, native woodland.

A short detour takes you to the Martyrs’ Tomb. This memorial commemorates six Covenanters who were shot when caught at prayer. Covenanters were Scottish Presbyterians who refused to accept the Episcopalian system introduced by King Charles I, which demanded they sign an oath of allegiance to the King rather than God. Known as the ‘Killing Times’, many died for their beliefs.

Follow the Southern Upland Way along the meandering Water of Trool. There are good views to the hills on both sides of the glen as you approach the ‘Water of Trool Bridge’. To the south, Craignaw sits in front of the higher peaks of Larg and Lamachan hill. Leaving the SUW, the path crosses over the river via the bridge and returns to the car park, passing by the attractive rapids and falls at Stroan Bridge.