Attractions and Places To See around Ae - Top 20

Lochmaben Castle is a ruined 14th-century castle located on the shore of Castle Loch in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. Access to the castle's ruins, is currently restricted for safety reasons due to unstable masonry.

Excellent walk. I would recommend walking boots. It's an interesting walk that has its challenges but is very manageable. Fantastic sounds and sights, some of which are dramatic and a little scary. About a third of the way in near the waterfall make sure you dip between the rocks and take a good look at the waterfall, it's just of the path. We managed 95% of the walk before it became too difficult. When you getvthe stream 30% of the way through, keep going, cross the stream and climb, the path does come back. Also after the stream go up the path ro the right for another great view. Walking only, you will need to go over and under some fallen trees. Fantastic 2 hours. There is a little car park near by for about 6 cars.

Great place for walking and paddling on the water

Built in 1881 the church is one of the few remaining examples of ‘tin’ churches that were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The owner of the Dalswinton Estate at the time, Mrs McAlpine-Leny, was unhappy with the larger Kirkton Parish Kirk and so bought her own for Dalswinton. At the first service, 300 people attended! These churches were made in kit form in Edinburgh and Glasgow and exported overseas as well as being used frequently in Scotland. Corrugated iron buildings were frequently used at this time in new and remote communities especially, due to the material’s quick and inexpensive qualities. The six-bay church has Gothic windows and a bellcote with a steep spire at the east gable. There is a small porch at the north-east corner. The interior of the church is timber-lined, and features original pitch-pine pews, pulpit and panelling, and has an open roof. A chancel was formed between a vestry and laird’s pew at the west end. Stained glass windows were added in 1950 and 1975. The earlier window is a one-light window of David, while the 1970s one is a semi-abstract window, with scenes of King David.

Crichope Linn is a fantastic gorge and waterfall located near Thornhill. There is an undulating trail that follows the gorge and you are free to explore as far as it takes you. This is a real hidden gem that's lightly travelled. Don't forget to pack a decent pair of shoes for the scrambling.

A short walk or ride from the car park is a bridge over the river Ae. A popular place to stop and take photos. Wooden carved bench close to bridge. Easy access to this point and well worth a look

The former fuedal seat of the Lord of Annandale and Dumfries and Galloway, Lochmaben Castle's ruins are an intruiging part of Scotland's rich history. The castle was originally constructed during the 13th and 14th centuries during Edward I's reign and later rebuilt during James IV of Scotland's era. It is situated beautifully, on a small peninsula jutting into Castle Loch's southern end.

Of Lochmaben's trio of lochs, Castle Loch is by far the largest covering almost 250 acres (100 ha). The small peninsula that juts into its southern banks is adorned with the historic ruins of Lochmaben Castle. The western end hosts a wood sculpture trail, whilst a full circuit of the loch is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours.