Merklandhill Plantation

A proper woodland walk rather than a manicured forest park, Merklandhill Plantation sits just outside Thornhill and delivers what you'd want from a Scottish lowland forest without the crowds. The trees are thick here - mostly conifers with enough of a mixed canopy that it doesn't feel claustrophobic, and the paths wind through without feeling too manicured. You'll get decent views across the Nithsdale valley if you pick your way to the higher bits, which makes the leg work worthwhile.

It's the sort of place where walkers with a bit of stamina will spend a solid hour or two without getting bored, though there's nothing dramatic enough to keep small children entertained for long if they're not keen on just tramping through trees. The woodland floor changes nicely through the seasons - bluebells in spring, proper mushroom spotting in autumn if you know what you're looking for. Dog walkers clearly love it, and you'll see why.

No facilities to speak of, as far as I can tell, so bring your own water. It's free to wander, which is the way these things should be. If you're staying at Penpont Holiday Park just down the road, it's an easy detour on a decent day. Worth combining with a look around Thornhill itself - the town's got a bit of character - but don't expect it to be the highlight of a forest-focused trip. It's a solid local walk, nothing more, nothing less.