Old March Cleuch

Valley in Dumfriesshire

Scotland

Old March Cleuch

Covenanter's Memorial Daniel McMichael memorial stone, Nether Dalveen.
Photo taken 1st March 2022.
Covenanter's Memorial Credit: Rab McMurdo

Old March Cleuch is a picturesque valley located in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. Nestled within the stunning Scottish countryside, this hidden gem offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.

The cleuch, or valley, is characterized by its rugged terrain, rolling hills, and lush greenery. The meandering March Burn gracefully flows through the valley, adding to its tranquility and charm. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the well-maintained paths, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding wildlife and vegetation.

Old March Cleuch is also known for its historical significance. It was once a bustling mining area, with evidence of past mining activities still visible today. The remnants of old mine shafts and buildings serve as a reminder of the area's industrial past. History enthusiasts can explore these remnants and learn about the challenges and triumphs of the people who once lived and worked in the valley.

Nature lovers will find Old March Cleuch to be a haven of biodiversity. The valley is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with various bird species, mammals, and plants thriving in the area. The tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled surroundings make it an ideal destination for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and photography.

Overall, Old March Cleuch offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether one seeks a peaceful retreat in nature or a glimpse into the past, this enchanting valley is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Old March Cleuch Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.344754/-3.7826755 or Grid Reference NS8707. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Covenanter's Memorial Daniel McMichael memorial stone, Nether Dalveen.
Photo taken 1st March 2022.
Covenanter's Memorial
Daniel McMichael memorial stone, Nether Dalveen. Photo taken 1st March 2022.
Old Milestone 22 miles to Dumfries from this old milestone beside the A702.
Photo taken on the 1st March 2022.
Old Milestone
22 miles to Dumfries from this old milestone beside the A702. Photo taken on the 1st March 2022.
Douglas Coat of Arms Douglas coat-of-arms from the old Dalveen Castle, built into the 
wall of Nether Dalveen.
Photo taken on the 1st March 2022.
Douglas Coat of Arms
Douglas coat-of-arms from the old Dalveen Castle, built into the wall of Nether Dalveen. Photo taken on the 1st March 2022.
Bridge over the Carron Water This wee bridge carries the track to Nether Dalveen over the Carron Water.
Photo taken on the 1st March 2022.
Bridge over the Carron Water
This wee bridge carries the track to Nether Dalveen over the Carron Water. Photo taken on the 1st March 2022.
Farm road to Dalveen
Farm road to Dalveen
A702 towards Thornhill
A702 towards Thornhill
Dalveen Farm This farm at the southwest end of the Dalveen Pass was viewed from Pettylung.
Dalveen Farm
This farm at the southwest end of the Dalveen Pass was viewed from Pettylung.
Western end of the Dalveen Pass The A702 road bends round into the main part of the pass, with Dern Craig in the background.
Western end of the Dalveen Pass
The A702 road bends round into the main part of the pass, with Dern Craig in the background.
Track towards the Enterkin Pass Looking towards the Lowther Hills with the valley of the Enterkin Burn down to the left.
Track towards the Enterkin Pass
Looking towards the Lowther Hills with the valley of the Enterkin Burn down to the left.
Valley of the Enterkin Burn Looking in the direction of the distant Cairnkinna Hill.
Valley of the Enterkin Burn
Looking in the direction of the distant Cairnkinna Hill.
Lowther Hills from Collinnie Hill Looking up the valley of the Enterkin Burn towards Auchenlone (East Mount Lowther).
Lowther Hills from Collinnie Hill
Looking up the valley of the Enterkin Burn towards Auchenlone (East Mount Lowther).
Enterkin Burn and Auchenlone The Enterkin Burn meanders through the valley floor with Auchenlone (East Mount Lowther) in the background.
Enterkin Burn and Auchenlone
The Enterkin Burn meanders through the valley floor with Auchenlone (East Mount Lowther) in the background.
Sheepfold by the Enterkin path Situated amongst rough grazing in the Lowther Hills.
Sheepfold by the Enterkin path
Situated amongst rough grazing in the Lowther Hills.
Looking towards Lowther Hill The Enterkin Pass path continues through the defile between the hillsides of Thirstane Bank and Steygail.
Looking towards Lowther Hill
The Enterkin Pass path continues through the defile between the hillsides of Thirstane Bank and Steygail.
Gate on the track into the Enterkin Pass One of many gates on this route through sheep-grazing country.
Gate on the track into the Enterkin Pass
One of many gates on this route through sheep-grazing country.
Steygail from Dalveen Rig The deep defile between these hillsides is named Glenvalentine.
Steygail from Dalveen Rig
The deep defile between these hillsides is named Glenvalentine.
Martyr's Monument, Dalveen The inscription (difficult to photograph because of the railings) reads "Sacred to the Memory of Daniel McMichael, who suffered Martyrdom here by Sir James Dalziel, A.D. 1685.  Erected in 1836." 

Daniel McMichael was a Covenanter shot at Dalveen by Dalziel (apparently an ancestor of the well-known MP Tam Dalyell), acting for the royalists, in 1685.  In 1836 when a new farmhouse was built here, this monument was erected.  Daniel McMichael was buried in the kirkyard at Durisdeer.

Further background on the Covenanters and associated historic sites can be found at: <a title="https://www.geograph.org.uk/article/The-Killing-Times" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/article/The-Killing-Times">Link</a>
Martyr's Monument, Dalveen
The inscription (difficult to photograph because of the railings) reads "Sacred to the Memory of Daniel McMichael, who suffered Martyrdom here by Sir James Dalziel, A.D. 1685. Erected in 1836." Daniel McMichael was a Covenanter shot at Dalveen by Dalziel (apparently an ancestor of the well-known MP Tam Dalyell), acting for the royalists, in 1685. In 1836 when a new farmhouse was built here, this monument was erected. Daniel McMichael was buried in the kirkyard at Durisdeer. Further background on the Covenanters and associated historic sites can be found at: Link
Track above Dalveen The white bird ornament on the gate matches one at the entrance to Dalveen farm.
Track above Dalveen
The white bird ornament on the gate matches one at the entrance to Dalveen farm.
Show me another place!

Old March Cleuch is located at Grid Ref: NS8707 (Lat: 55.344754, Lng: -3.7826755)

Unitary Authority: Dumfries and Galloway

Police Authority: Dumfries and Galloway

What 3 Words

///hardening.verve.include. Near Sanquhar, Dumfries & Galloway

Nearby Locations

Old March Cleuch

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