Tucked away at the top of Loch Ryan, Stranraer is the gateway to the Rhinns of Galloway. The port town combines historical castles and heritage gardens with wild landscapes, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches.
Things to do in Stranraer
Retrace the enthralling story of the Castle of St. John, a medieval tower at the heart of Stranraer. Built in the 1500s by the tumultuous Adairs of Kinhilt, the tower has served many purposes over the years, from a prison to a courthouse and military garrison. Explore the interactive exhibit before climbing the tower for views over Loch Ryan.
Visit Castle Kennedy Gardens, renowned for its rare and wonderful plants. The 14th-century castle rests amid 30 hectares of gorgeous grounds and two shimmering lochs. Admire the Victorian lily pad pond, stroll through the herbaceous borders and follow the woodland walks to see red squirrels and otters.
Glimpse into the traditional lives of local Gallovidians at the Stranraer Museum. Housed in the historic Old Town hall, the museum illustrates the region’s history from the prehistoric times to the Victorian era. See the oldest plough in Scotland and learn about traditional dairy farming, including how to make butter on a wooden churn.
For a breath of fresh air, follow the Loch Ryan Coastal Path. The 20-kilometer trail meanders along the shores through the charming village of Cairnryan and ends at the Glenapp Church. Enjoy marvelous views along the North Rhins coastline and Ailsa Craig and see World War II gun placements along the way.
Getting around Stranraer
You can fly into Glasgow Prestwick Airport and take a two-hour train to Stranraer. The town is a 1.5-hour drive from Ayr and two hours’ drive from Glasgow on the A77. Once in Stranraer, exploring on foot is easy, while buses offer convenient transport around Galloway and Dumfries.