Direction of walking
Most long distance walkers tackle the Southern Upland Way by walking from west to east. By walking predominantly in a northeasterly direction the sun will be at your back lighting up the way ahead to your best advantage.

The prevailing winds are from the south west so they too will be at your back. All the guide books describe the Way travelling from west to east.

Weather
Up to date forecasts for the day ahead, and five day forecasts, can be obtained from a variety of weather information services.
South West Scotland: 0891 500420
Scottish Borders: 0891 500422

The Mountain Weather Information Service gives special information about the weather that can be expected at higher altitude: www.mwis.org.uk

If you can get web access prior to your walk or during one of your overnight stops you can look at

Met Office: www.meto.gov.uk/weather/europe/uk/swscotland.htm