Areas of interest

GARDENS

There is a number of attractive gardens in the area and all within a short car journey. Logan Botanic Garden has a wide variety of plants that thrive in the mild climate created by the gulf stream. Castle Kennedy garden in the grounds of Lochinch estate is much bigger and it has an extensive range of rhododendrons and an avenue of mature monkey puzzle trees. Glenwhan garden near Dunragit is a 12 acre site that has been developed from a wet area. It has a wide range of plants and a small loch; the views from garden are spectacular. Dunskey gardens are within walking distance of the house. All of these gardens have tea-rooms attached to them. 

EXCURSIONS TO IRELAND

Stranraer and Cairn Ryan are both ferry ports on Loch Ryan with frequent crossings to Northern Ireland. It is possible to take a day trip to Belfast or Larne. There are also day trips to the Giant's Causeway / Antrim coast and the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, see www.stenaline.co.uk/daytrip   for further information. 

MULL OF GALLOWAY

The Mull of Galloway is the most Southerly point of Scotland and  is the site of a Stevenson lighthouse.  From this promentary  there are spectacular views. On a clear day it is possible to see the Isle of Man, the Cumbrian hills and Ireland. There is a RSPB reserve based  near the lighthouse and apart from spotting a number of seabirds, it is also the habitat of puffins.  Built into the cliffs with equally good views, there is a restaurant  / cafe that serves food until 5.30.   

WIGTOWN BOOK TOWN

For those who enjoy browsing through second hand book shops, a visit to Wigtown is a must.  It takes approximately 45 minutes by car from Portpatrick but  the journey is well worthwhile. The annual Book Festival is worth a visit. It is usually held at the end of September / October.  More information can be found on their website, www.wigtownbookfestival.com 

SULWATH BREWERY

The Sulwath Brewery in Castle Douglas is on the A75, approximately 57 miles from Stranraer. This independent real ale brewery uses traditional brewing methods and natural ingredients.  They supply connoisseur markets as far as Devon in the South to Aberdeen in the North.  You can find more information on their website www.sulwathbrewers.co.uk