Took our young family (aged 8 and 7), and Skipper the DGWGO pup to Mersehead RSPB reserve this afternoon for their ‘Off the beaten track’ guided walk. Following the coast road from Dumfries, via New Abbey to Sandyhills, Mersehead reserve was well signposted and easily found and car parking ample.
Kirsty, our guide, was really enthusiastic and friendly as well as being very knowledgeable about Mersehead’s wildfowl and wildlife. We were in a small group of 7 adults, two children and 1 dog.
The tour was scheduled for two hours (unfortunately due to a very unexpected hail storm, we decided to cut out the final 20 minutes) and took us via gravelled paths through grasslands and woodlands to sheltered viewing cabins over the wetlands. The experience was very relaxed and breaks at the observation shelters made this tour enjoyable for inexperienced walkers of all abilities and ages.
The whole family enjoyed this experience, we all wore wellies, although the paths were not muddy at all (we did miss the final ‘beach leg’ of the tour) and I am sure most areas are suitable to pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Apart from the main reception, (which supplies refreshments), Skipper was welcomed throughout the reserve, understandably, on a lead. On the beach section dogs are allowed to free roam.
Well done Mersehead, our family will return very soon for family walks.
SP (Skipper’s Mum)
The Out & About section in Dumfries & Galloway is headlined by Gretna Green
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