Head from the ruins of Sweetheart Abbey through the picturesque village before climbing up to the Waterloo Monument on a hilltop above, for great views over the Nith Estuary.
Minor roads, steep path with steps to Monument, clear woodland path, not waymarked.
Bus to New Abbey.
Car park at Sweetheart Abbey, New Abbey.
There is a large car park at Sweetheart Abbey, set behind the main street in the village. The great ruined Abbey dates back to 1273 and was built in memory of John Balliol by his wife - she also founded Balliol College at Oxford University. When she died she was buried in the Abbey, and had her husband's heart interred beside her, which is the source of the name. The abbey was inhabited by Cistercian monks until the Reformation; today the ruins are administered by Historic Scotland and there is an entrance charge. The car park also has public toilets, and a cafe alongside.
The walk begins by heading back to the road and turning right through the village. New Abbey must rank amongst the prettiest settlements in the area with its whitewashed cottages overlooked by the Abbey ruins, plus a pub, shop and large tree in the centre. However the road can be busy and there's no pavement so take care. Cross opposite the shop and bear left to pass the Abbey Arms.
Turn left again to follow a narrow road that climbs up beside the millpond on your right. After a couple of sharp bends it leads through open countryside to reach a small car park in the trees on the left after 1km and a cottage on the right. The track over the bridge is a route to Criffel, but for this route take the right hand path that forks off - signed for the Waterloo Monument, which has been in view as you followed the road. The path heads through a gate and alongside the stream.
Pass through a second gate and the rough path climbs steeply up with many steps, going through another gate part way. At the top the Waterloo monument is reached. Built in 1816 to celebrate Wellington's Victory the year before, the spiral staircase inside can be climbed with caution - the stones are well worn and can be slippery, and the top has a very low parapet but it's the only way to see the stunning views now that the trees have grown.
To return head around to the back of the monument and take the gravelled path heading northwest. The path descends gently at first, passing through more open ground before entering an area of conifer plantation. Turn right at the waymarker in the trees and keep following the path down through the woods to eventually emerge on a farm track. Turn right along this to head back to New Abbey; it emerges beside the millpond where the outward route is rejoined.
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