A wide, quiet sandy beach shoreline along the circular coastal route section of the Mersehead trail.

Barn Owls, Barnacle Geese & Barefoot on the Beach at RSPB Mersehead

I’m not really sure why, but for some reason we only visited this RSPB reserve for the first time this spring, even though it is literally a few minutes drive from the Lodge.  It’s amazing – I can’t believe we haven’t been before! The whole area is beautiful, and the wildlife is abundant. The visitor centre is small but very well thought out and has everything you need.  It was a really good afternoon out. 

A flat walking path goes through open wetlands and wild grass fields at RSPB Mersehead reserve.
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The Needle's Eye natural rock arch near Sandyhills Beach on the Solway Coast, accessible at low tide

Sandyhills Beach on the Solway Firth

The nearest beach, Sandyhills, is only a short 10 to 15 mins walk from the lodge along a quiet road.

It’s a large sandy beach, warmed by the Gulf Stream, so popular for paddling and exploring rock pools. It’s great for walking at low tide.

⚠️ The tide can move very quickly so we recommend you check the tide times.

To get there, turn left from Barend Holiday Lodges and stay on that road to the ‘T’ junction. Cross the road into the car park, then access the beach to the left of Sandyhills Bay Holiday Park.

Sandyhills Beach, looking across the bay

Quick info for your visit:

  • Distance from Serenity (22 Barend): 0.6 miles SE (~10 min walk, accessible, level footpath)
  • Postcode: Dalbeattie DG5 4NZ
  • Tides: ⚠️ The Solway tide moves fast; always check times before a walk below the tide line
  • Dogs: Welcome all year, but on a lead during bird ground nesting season (Apr – Jul)
  • Facilities: Toilets and a small shop selling ice-creams and cold drinks
  • Local Tips: Leave the car at Serenity 22 | Parking 30 mins free parking | £6 all day | Free access to the beach | Good for rock-pooling, shells, photography, and vast low-tide walks.
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Golf Club and Ball

Free Round of Golf

Golf Club and Ball

When you book Serenity 22 Barend through this site/Barend Holiday Lodges you can have a free round of golf at Craigieknowes Golf Club.

4 miles W ~9 min drive DG5 4LF

Craigieknowes is just 3 miles from Kippford, alongside a stretch of beautiful coastline known as the Scottish Riviera. It has a challenging 9 hole par 3 course along with a “Tee” room for refreshments after (or instead! 😉).

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