'The Old Smithy’ is situated in a small picturesque hamlet in the Nith Valley, 8 miles from Dumfries.

The cottage, once a blacksmith's shop, was converted to provide cosy, high standard holiday accommodation for up to 4 people.

The area offers peace and tranquility in gorgeous countryside where there is an abundance of wildlife, including the now very rare red squirrel.

Walking, cycling, fishing, golf and horse riding are just some of the activities popular with those visiting the area.

The Southern Uplands, climbing to almost 3000 feet, provide excellent terrain for all levels of walker.

The Southern Upland Way runs closeby and stretches for 212 miles between Portpatrick to Cockburnpath, however there are an abundance of walks starting right at the cottage itself.

Closeby too is the Kilpatrick MacMillan Trail, a cycle route in commemoration of the first bicycle made by Kilpatrick MacMillan at Keir (4 miles).

The area has an excellent network of quiet country roads ideal for cycling or walking.

The River Nith is well known for it's excellent trout, sea-trout, and salmon fishing.

Hamish Steele will be happy to offer advice on the best river stretches and arrange permits (from one evening to two weeks) for guests.

The golfer will enjoy the many courses in the area. In particular the Thornhill Golf course, Dumfries and County Golf Course and Dumfries and Galloway Golf Course all offer challenging 18-hole courses and are within 8 miles from the cottage.

There is much to see in the area including Ellisland Farm (2 miles) where Robert Burns lived and worked as well as the museum in Dumfries (8 miles).

Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill (8 miles) is magnificent and is set in a beautifully kept estate. Here you can tour the home of the Buccleugh Family, enjoy the gardens, visit the craft centres while the young can enjoy a wonderful adventure playground.

Carlavock Castle Bird Sanctuary must be visited by those with an interest in bird life.

Small wonder the area is so popular with the many tourists who visit Scotland each year.

Day trips can be made to Carlisle (40 Miles), Glasgow (75 miles) and the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh (90 miles).