See a replica of the world’s first pedal bike
a replica of Kirkpatrick Macmillan’s original bicycle
Drumlanrig Castle
Scottish Cycle Museum at Drumlanrig Castle
Follow the KM Trail to discover the story of Kirkpatick Macmillan, inventor of the world’s first pedal bicycle.
Pedal along the KM Trail from Dumfries to find out all about Kirkpatrick Macmillan, inventor of the world’s first pedal-powered bicycle.
Introduced to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the bicycle in 1990, the KM Trail runs from Dumfries through Keir Mill, the birthplace of this fantastic innovator. Macmillan was the son of a blacksmith, born in 1812, who began to work for his father at a young age.
The first pedal bicycle was completed in 1839 and was extremely heavy, but Macmillan quickly got the hang of riding it and often made the 14 mile journey to Dumfries. A few years later, he made the much longer journey up to Glasgow, completing 68 miles in two days.
Continue on from Keir Mill on the KM Trail and at the end of the route you’ll come to Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate, home to the Scottish Cycle Museum and learn more about the creation of the bike and its history. Situated within the Stableyard, the museum houses a superb collection of interesting bicycles, including a wonderful replica of Macmillan’s invention and a number of Victorian tricycles and penny farthings. See an 1868 velocipede, some early safety bikes and a 1912 Dursley Pederson.
Be sure to visit Drumlanrig Castle itself, an excellent example of late 17th century Renaissance architecture. See the distinctive pink sandstone walls of the home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. The castle is also home to part of the internationally renowned Buccleuch Art Collection, featuring paintings by Rembrandt, Gainsborough and Van der Neer. The Estate also provides some great cycle tracks and mountain biking trails all year round.
Search
Skip search formsSearch for accommodation
Search for attractions
Search for events
Search for activities
Newsletter sign up »
Sign up now to receive regular e-newsletters and be the first to hear about the latest news, exciting events and festivals.
Order a free brochure »
Order Dumfries and Galloway Brochures & Guides, such as the Accommodation Guide, Visitors Guide, Golf Guide, Walking Guide & Cycling Guide.
