A former wasteland on the 17000 acre Crown Estate's Applegarth near Lockerbie, it was flooded to provide a wildlife refuge.The decline of wetland habitats in the UK inspired Bobby Smith, a previous tenant of Applegarthtown Farm, to create the sanctuary, and it has attracted over 126 bird species, many of which have successfully bred . It has the UK's largest man made (see picture below) Sand Martin colony and in July 2010 the North Solway Ringing Group ringed it's 10,000th Sand Martin nestling on the reserve.
Visitors can also expect to find a large breeding colony of Black-headed gull, with other breeding wildfowl, kingfisher and tree sparrow.
From Lockerbie, travel north on the B7076 for approx 1½ miles, turn right at the Sibbaldbie, Boreland, Eskdalemuir sign, then turn sharp left over the motorway. Continue for ¾ mile to 'T' junction and turn right. After 200 yards, turn left and follow road for ¼ mile to reach your destination.
From Lochmaben, travel north on the B7020, and turn right at the Kinnel Bridge, heading for Millhousebridge. At the crossroads in Millhousebridge turn right and follow the sign for Dalton. Pass the sign for Applegarth Church, and take the next right for ¼ mile.
We highly recommend the publications below to compliment your visit to this Region.
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