Our river festival recognises and explores our town’s long relationship with the river and its importance to the people and communities it connects, both past, present, and future.
About
The Nith is a tidal river that runs through the historic market town of Dumfries, connecting the town to the sea. In the 18th century, this connection saw the town and its neighbouring villages of Glencaple and Kingholm Quay become Scotland’s largest and busiest trading ports.
The river’s importance to Dumfries as the region’s largest market town is immortalised in the Nithraid logo. Our festival mascot, ‘Salty Coo’, symbolises the historic journey made by herds of cattle, led by their farmers, across the river at low tide from Maxwelltown on the west bank to the cattle market at Whitesands on the east side of the river. This historic crossing site now marks the halfway point of the Nithraid River Race.
Nithraid has been going for over 10 years and has seen many changes over that time. It is now in the process of another major transition. Over the next two years, Nithraid will become an independent organisation. Building on the success of this distinctive and unique celebration of the beautiful River Nith, and keeping the river race as its central element, the event will develop the Mill Green gathering into a creative festival of the natural environment.
SAVE THE DATE!
24.08.24
THE RIVER NITH
GLENCAPLE
DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY
What’s in Store for You
Teamwork
Teams of intrepid sailors take to the Nith in their vessels to race on the river, battling it out for the best time.
History
Discover why the River Nith is so important, not only to Dumfries, but to the entire country of Scotland.
Creativity
Take part in interactive activities and get creative with lots to do for all the family.
2024 F.A.Q’s
What Time Does the Race Start?
Nithraid 2024 will be upstream with the tide from Glencaple to Dumfries. The race starts in Glencaple at 15:00. Because of the strength of the flood tide, there will be a staggered running start. Details will be confirmed at the race briefing.
What Time Are the Boats Expected in Dumfries?
The boats are expected to start arriving at Mill Green in Dumfries around 15:30, although wind direction and weather conditions on the day may affect this.
Where Is the Best Place to Watch the Race?
The best spot to watch is from Mill Green in Dumfries, but there are plenty of spots along the river where you’ll get an excellent view of the boats. There will be a selection of activities available to those watching the race at Mill Green. We advise not going to Glencaple to watch, unless you are a resident or part of a race entrant party, as parking and space are extremely limited.
How Long Is the Course?
The course distance is 5.25 miles. The timing takes advantage of the tide. With the wind assisting, it will take sailing boats about one hour. Against the wind, it could take two hours. Normal winds in August are south-west. The incoming tide can be quite strong at Glencaple, so care must be taken when launching. There is a bore on the Nith, and launching will take place after it has passed.
Where Do I Park in Glencaple?
Parking will be available to those taking part in the River Race in Glencaple. There will be stewards on hand to direct you where to park. There is very limited parking in Glencaple for spectators. Please note that this parking is reserved for those racing only.
Important Information for Racers / Competitors
Competitors who signed up for Nithraid 2024 via Eventbrite will receive an email including a competitors’ pack. You can also view the full competitors’ pack, as well as the course notes and race rules, via the buttons below. If you have any further questions, please send us an email at [email protected].
Keep up to date
Nithraid 2024 is produced by EcoArts in partnership with The Stove Network, and is supported by Dumfries & Galloway Council, The Holywood Trust, Blackthorn Salt and Annandale and Nithsdale Community Benefit Company, disbursing funds on behalf of ScottishPower Renewables Harestanes Windfarm.
