Places to Visit

Whatever your pursuits, the countryside around Galloway Point can cater for all your needs. Dumfries and Galloway has a rich, historical heritage.

The region’s proximity to the English border has left a legacy of castles and fortifications which can be explored.

The area also has great significance in the establishment of Christianity in Scotland and there are many places of interest to visit, including the archaelogical dig at Whithorn and St Ninians Cave.

Every sport you can think of can be catered for in the region with golfers having the luxury of the excellent links course at Dunskey on your doorstep. There are more than 23 golf courses in the area to test your skills.

For the active visitor perhaps walking the 212 mile Southern Upland Way is an attraction, passing through some of the most varied and unspoilt countryside in Scotland.

PORTPATRICK

Portpatrick is one of the most picturesque ports in Scotland. The harbour is still the focal point of the village, sustaining a small fishing industry. It is therefore no surprise to learn that sea angling is a popular pastime with visitors. There is also the opportunity to try river and loch fishing inland.

The small sandy beach offers the visitor a comfortable place to relax and bathe, while the local craft industries appease those with discerning eyes for bargains. A children’s playpark, tennis courts, a bowling green, putting green, horse riding, water skiing, a lifeboat museum and the 16th Century Dunskey Castle are among the local attractions.
During the summer a number of activities are arranged by the local community which are fun to attend and provide an insight into the local area - for example the “RNLI lifeboat week” in August and the “Folk Festival” in September.

GARDENS

The surrounding area is a gardeners dream. Since the climate is influenced by the Gulf Stream, there are several renowned gardens nearby. These include Castle Kennedy, Ardwell, Glenwhan and possibly the best known, Logan Botanical Gardens which exhibits many exotic trees and plants.

LOGAN BOTANICAL GARDENS

Described as a “touch of the exotic”, this garden is home to the most spectacular collection of bizarre and unusual plants. Wander around the Walled Garden, Water and Terrace Garden and Woodland Garden and marvel at the blaze of colour which is present all year round. Cakes to die for in the Cafe.

CASTLE KENNEDY AND LOCHINCH GARDENS

Famous for it’s variety and number of rhodedendrums, azaleas and magnolias. Other features include a walled garden, monkey puzzle avenue and impressive two acre circular lily pond.

LOGAN FISH POND

Fully restored Victorian Fish Larder in a unique setting. Touch and feel the fish as they swim around the tidal pool.

ACTIVITIES FOR THE KIDS

Dumfries and Galloway has lots to offer families with some excellent places to visit that are fun for parents and children alike.

CREAM OF GALLOWAY, Gatehouse of Fleet

Adventure playground suitable for all ages – indoor play barn, cycle hire, ranger led activities, nature trails and demonstrations on ice cream making process. Taste the many varieties of ice cream made at the farm and sample the fantastic organic burgers!

MABIE FARM PARK, Dumfries

Feed and pet the many varieties of animals, quad bikes, water slides, grass sledging, paddle boats, astro slide, indoor play area, farm shop and tea room. Ideal fun for the whole family.

GEM ROCK MUSEUM, Creetown

One of the finest collections of gemstones, crystals, minerals, rocks and fossils in Great Britain. Fully interactive experience with audio visual presentations. Explore the crystal cave and take part in the educational activities. Shop and Tea Room.

AGNEW PARK, Stranraer

Adventure playground, ride on train, paddle boats on the lake, sand play area, crazy golf, go karts, picnic area and shop. A fun day out for all!

DAY TRIPS TO IRELAND

Day excursions depart from Stranraer Harbour and Cairnryan, by high speed ferries and coaches to give excellent tours to Ireland visiting the Old Bushmills Distillery, Giants Causeway, Mountains of Mourne, Belfast Zoo and Belfast City.