Dumfries & Galloway: Summary of places of interest
O-Z

 

 

OLD BRIDGE OF URR   84 : NX 7767  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 106)

    C16 hamlet built around the bridge which crosses the Urr Water.

    Bridge (C16, 1772 & 1843): Two-span bridge with two weathered carved panels of 1580.

    Mills: Upstream a small waulk mill. Downstream is the decaying Mill of Urr with waterwheel, stones and unusually, a separate kiln.

    NNE. Chipperkyle: See Kirkpatrick Durham.            

    NNW. Doon Hill: Archaeological site of the Mote of Doon.

    NW. Trowdale: Archaeological site of a fort.

Also see Balmaghie, Castle Douglas, Clarebrand, Corsock, Crocketford, Crossmichael, Dalbeattie, Gelston, Glenlochar, Haugh of Urr, Kirkpatrick Durham, Knockvennie, Rhonehouse & Kelton, Springholm.

 

PALNACKIE   84 : NX 8256  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 155)

    Formerly a port for Castle Douglas and Dalbeattie situated on a creek off the Urr. Some fine C19 houses built of local granite.

    Barlochan House (C19): A baronial mansion, elaborately castellated with a slender tower at the NW corner.

    North Glen Gallery: Glassblowing and design.

    Harbour (c.1850): Built with wooden piles and planks. Small warehouse.

    SSE. Almorness House (N of): Archaeological site of a fort. S is Almorness Point which lies opposite Hestan Island.

    SE. Glen Isle: Each summer the World Flounder Tramping Championships are held on the mud flats of the peninsula.

    N. Kirkennan: Site of former Kirkennan Church, remains of burials were found - possibly from period prior to the building of Buittle Church (C13).

    S. Orchardton Bay SSSI: Inlet on the Solway Coast between two headlands that end at Almorness Point and Torr Point. Also see Auchencairn.

    S. Orchardton Tower HS (C15): Fine example of a free-standing tower-house, the only known cylindrical (Irish style) tower in Scotland. Local views from caphouse.

    Also see Auchencairn, Balcary, Buittle, Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie, Gelston, Hestan Island.

 

PARKGATE and KIRKMICHAEL   78 : NY 0187  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 62)

    Barony Agricultural College: Jacobean house from 1832-3 in Locharbriggs sandstone. Modern courtyard block from 1984.

    Beech Avenue was built on the site of a WW2 POW camp.

    Kirkmichael Parish Church (1813-5): T-plan church with good monuments and 1 war grave (CWGC) in the graveyard.

    E. Gamerigg: See Shieldhill

    E. Nethermill: Small neat village with WM at crossroads.

    Also see Ae, Amisfield, Courance, Duncow, Heathhall & Locharbriggs, Kirkton, Lochmaben, St Ann’s, Shieldhill, Templand, Tinwald.

 

PARTON   77/84 : NX 6970  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 105)

    Glenkens estate village (1901) for Parton House (demolished 1964) with a terrace of A&C houses with a clock tower. Restored c.1972.

    Airds House (1884): Scots-accented picturesque large villa. Wall stones at N entrance are from Little Water-of-Fleet viaduct..

    Boat o’ Rhone: Loch Ken rail viaduct (1861) with 3 bowstring spans. In 1935 mail train crashed down the W embankment without injuries!

    Boreland Glen: Boreland Mote is an archaeological site of a motte.

    Boreland of Parton: Extant surface features of a ROC underground monitoring post (1960-91), also concrete base of an aircraft observation post.

    Fountain (1902): Horse and dog trough memorial for B. Rigby Murray, a benefactor of the village.

    Motte of Parton or Kirkland Mote (C12 or C13): A well-defined motte in the classic ‘pudding shape’ is S of the Parish Church.

    Old Parish Church (1592): Remains include a 1635 bellcote and tomb of James Clerk Maxwell (see below). Pulpit survives in National Museums of Scotland.

    Parish Church (1832-3): Heritors’ Gothic style. Interior recast c.early-C20, but some earlier box-pews survive. C16 carved slab.

    Parish Churchyard: Tomb and Monument to James Clerk Maxwell, second only to Einstein as the founder of modern science.

    Parton Walk (Boat o’ Rhone): Walk to Red Kite information and viewing point.

    Railway (1861-1965): Traces of old ‘Port Line’ railway trackbed. The former station/platform is now an extended house. Also see Boat o’ Rhone above.

    River Dee (Parton-Crossmichael) SSSI. See Loch Ken.

    Summerhouse (1901): Octagonal A&C building behind the terrace. Built originally as the communal lavatory. Converted 1992.

    Village Hall (1908): A&C building, but with corrugated-iron roof.

    E. Barwhillanty (1886): Victorian mansion, vaguely French, with central pyramid-roof tower and lych-gate porch. Elaborate interior.

    E. Craichie: The Craichie Burn flows parallel with the road for a while before descending to Loch Ken via the pretty Craichie Glen.

    N. Glenlaggan: Loch Ken Marina and Ski School. Loch Ken information point.

    NNW. Glenswinton: Cairn Hill, an archaeological site of the remains of a large circular cairn.

   NNW. Merkland Hill: Archaeological site of a fort (Little Merkland).

    SE. Hangman’s Stone: Commemorates a hangman’s tree that once stood in the area.

Also see Castle Douglas, Clarebrand, Crossmichael, Galloway Kite Trail, Glenlochar, Ironmacannie, Knockvennie, Loch Ken, Mossdale.

 

PENPONT and BURNHEAD   78 : NX 8494  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 40)

    Penpont is an early C19 planned village, built to accommodate people displaced by amalgamation of farms.

    Birthplace of the African explorer, Joseph Thomson, who gave his name to Thomson’s gazelle. Thomson’s cottage is to be developed as a heritage centre. Also see Thornhill.

    Burnhead: Small village with mixture of white-painted rubble-built cottages, some dating from early C19.

    Carse Brae, Penpont: In this street is a former granary (c.1850), now an unusual house.

    Grovehill House, Burnhead (C19): Double-pile house with early C19 lodge.

    Penpont Parish Church (1867): Large impressive buttressed Gothic church. Art Nouveauish communion table (1923).

    Penpont Parish Churchyard: Contains 4 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Penpont Free Church, Burnhead (1843-4): SW corner canted so as not to encroach on Duke of Buccleuch’s land, who had refused a site.

    Penpont WM (1920): A life-sized bronze sculpture of a soldier.

    Relief Church, Burnhead (1839): Restored and converted.

    Stepends: On top of a hillock on N side of A702 is a large ‘pinecone’ sculpture by Andy Goldsworthy. To NE is an archaeological site of a settlement moat.

    SSW. Capenoch: Baronial house by David Bryce with stone-mullioned conservatory. Notable buildings include the bridge and lodge.

    SSW. Capenoch Loch: Long cairn of c.C3-C2 BC. A unification of several originally separate chambered cairns.

    N. Eccles: Georgian country house complex which developed around the barmkin of a tower house (1605). C19 garden & lodge.

    WNW. Grennan Hill: Archaeological site of a fort.

    E. Nith Bridge: See Thornhill.

    SW. Tynron Juniper Wood: Nature Reserve.

    E. Virginhill: Archaeological site of a promontory Fort.

Also see Barjarg, Carronbridge, Closeburn, Drumlanrig, Gatelawbridge, Glenmidge, Keir Mill, Kirkland, Marrburn, Moniaive, Scaur Water Glen, Shinnel Glen, Thornhill, Tynron, Wallaceton.

 

PENWHIRN and CAIRNERZEAN   82 : NX 1369  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 95-96)

    Penwhirn Reservoir and large modern Water Filter Station; plans announced in late 2011 to increase the height of the dam to step up capacity by 35% to allow for droughts.

    The road from Penwhirn to Innermessan passes WW2 bombing targets on Braid Fell and some roadside water-filled bomb holes. Fine views of Loch Ryan and Stranraer area.

    Cairnerzean Fell: Archaeological sites in the area include cairns, enclosures and hut circles.

    Galloway Moors SSSI: Much of the area, mainly to the S comprises part of the Glen App & Galloway Moors protection area for upland grasses & heaths.

    Pularyan: Archaeological sites in the area include a burnt mound, cairns, hut circle and a kiln.

    Waterfalls in the area include the Loups of Penwhirn, Dalnigap (N), and Kilfeddar (SE).

    NW. Cairn Hill: Archaeological site of Brockloch Cairn.

    S. Lingdowey Cairns: Archaeological sites of cairns S of Cairnerzean.

    Also see Auchmantle, Innermessan, Lagafater, New Luce.

 

POLBAE   76 : NX 2872  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 98)

    Polbae House and Lodge by the SUW with remains of spectacular grounds and ornamental lake. Refurbishment in progress.

    SUW and the road cross the River Bladnoch by the Tannylaggie Bridge and the Polbae Burn by the Darloskine Bridge.

    W. Blood Moss SSSI: Protected area of wetlands.

    W. Loch Derry: Lies beyond the road end by Craigairie Fell. The SUW continues toward Laggangarn.

    SW. Kirkcowan Flow SSSI: Protected wetlands area includes Craigmoddie Fell in its boundaries.

    Also see Knowe, Laggangarn.

 

POLGOWN   77 : NS 7103  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 22)

    Situated on the picturesque Scaur Water Glen road.

    The SUW – en route from Dalry to Sanquhar - shares the road between Polgown and Polskeoch.

    NE. Whiteside Hill: Approved site of wind farm with 30 turbines.

    Also see Holm of Dalquhairn, Polskeoch, Scaur Water Glen.

 

POLSKEOCH   77 : NS 6802  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 22)

    The picturesque Scaur Water Glen road comes to an end here.

    The SUW – en route from Dalry to Sanquhar - shares the road between Polskeoch and Polgown.

    Chalk Memorial Bothy: A shelter on the SUW. Near here a rough track/footpath (former drove road) lead SE for about 1.5mi/2.4km to Lorg Bridge. See Holm of Dalquhairn.

    SSE. Allan’s Cairn: A red sandstone monument to two Covenanters.

    Also see Holm of Dalquhairn, Polgown.

 

PORTENCALZIE   76/82 : NX 0271  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 94)

    Situated in NE corner of The Rhins. An unmade road descends 0.5mi/0.8km to Lady Bay picnic site with views across Loch Ryan to Glen Asp.

    N. Corsewall Point to Milleur SSSI: Coastal geological protected area. Also see Corsewall Point.

    NW. Caspin: Archaeological site of a fort.

    SW. East Kirkbryde: Site of St Bride’s Church, possibly a convent. St Bride’s Well is a natural spring.

    SW. High Ardwell: Extant surface features of a ROC underground monitoring post (1964-91), nearby is an Orlit observation post.

    N. Milleur Point: Headland at the northern tip of the Rhinns of Galloway, on the west side of the mouth of Loch Ryan.

    Also see Corsewall Point, Ervie, Kirkcolm.

 

PORT LOGAN   82 : NX 0940  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 168)

    Established early C19 as an improved port on Port Logan (or Port Nessock) Bay. The small village itself consists of two rows of houses, inn, tea room & park farm. Sandy beach.

    Location for the 2001 BBC Television series “Two Thousand Acres of Sky”.

    Harbour (1818-22). Part of the pier is ruined, but the seaward end survives with circular ashlar lighthouse and former toilet (1830s).

    Logan Tidal fishpond (1788-1800): Restored Victorian fish larder with castellated cottage entrance, sea-aquarium and touch pools.

    Port Logan SSSI: Small protected geological area at S end of bay.

    NW. Clanghie Point: Archaeological sites of two forts.

    NW. Duniehinnie: Archaeological site of a fort.

    E. Killumpha (c.1600): Small tower remodelled 1823 and later extended with a farmhouse, itself recently changed to 1823 style.

    N. Logan Botanic Garden (1900): Specialist garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, landscaped with fine sub-tropical plants. Fragments of Balzieland Castle (c.1467).

    N. Logan House (1702 & later): Pink harled mansion house, reworked into baronial style, reconstituted to basic original in c.1952.

    N. Logan House Gardens (Restored 2001): Adjoining the Botanic Garden, with woodland walk and some fine rhododendron specimens. Folly Tower.

    SW. Muldaddie: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Also see Ardwell, Clachanmore, Crammag Head, Drummore, Kirkmadrine, Sandhead, Terally.

 

PORTPATRICK   82 : NX 0054  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 141)

    Situated in an inlet in very rocky coast. Until 1849 a port for steamers to Donaghadee in Northern Ireland, now a small resort.

    Downshire Arms Hotel (C19): Large extended hotel.

    Free Church (1886-7): Simple Gothic former church, now a hall.

    Harbour: Pier built 1774, harbour 1821-36 but both gale damaged 1839. New basin built 1859-66.

    House o’ Hill (1974-5): Predominantly sited tall villa with monopitch roof.

    Lifeboat Station (1877 & 1993): ‘Tyne’ lifeboat. Station includes a RNLI seasonal gift shop. Former lifeboat derrick crane.

    Inglenook (1776): Former Parish Manse next to Old Parish Church. Altered 1886-7.

    Old Parish Church (1628-9): Roofless remains. The c.C16 tower (with 1791 cupola) was maybe once a beacon. Maritime tombstones.

    Parish Church (1840-2): Big Gothic building with tall W tower. Inside, a bronze bell (1748) from the Old Parish Church.

    Portpatrick Cemetery: Contains 6 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Portpatrick Dunskey Golf Club: Consists of two courses – Dunskey, an 18-hole links and Dinvin, a 9-hole parkland course.

    Portpatrick Hotel (1905-7): Dominant position. Mainly baronial, it affords fine views over the town and coast.

    Portpatrick Railway (1862-1950): Remains of trackbed in area; Portpatrick Station site is now built over. Traces of harbour branch with cliff reverse spur cuttings (1862-1875).

    Primary School (1979): A highly original brick-built school with radial buttresses on a hillside setting.

    St Ninian’s S.Ep Church (1937): Minute harled church.

    South Crescent: Small limekiln tucked into a cliff.

    South Pier & Lighthouse (1896): Keepers’ houses of earlier Rennie light are now craft shop and pottery.

    Southern Upland Way: Start point and information at harbour of the 212mi/341km long distance path to Cocksburnspath - opened 1984.

    SSE. Craigoch Burn: A hydroelectric dam (1903-4) supplied power to Portpatrick, but due to lack of demand it closed down in 1922.

    NW. Archaeological site of a fort.

    S. Dunskey Castle (C16): Substantial remains of tower-house in spectacular coastal setting. Views toward Northern Ireland; Belfast Power Station can be seen.

    N. Dunskey Farm: The gable end of a byre houses a fine doocot.

    N. Dunskey Glen: Walled garden, greenhouses and fine woodland walking area, open summer season.

    N. Dunskey House (1901-4): Last Baronial style in Galloway with lavish interiors – it replaced a 1706 house.

    E. Lagganmore Hotel & Golf Course: A 18-hole golf course with fine views.

    N. Port Kale Cove: Foot of Dunskey Glen. A unique double pyramidal cable station marks first telephone line to Ireland (1853-1983).

    Also see Cairngarroch, Knock and Maize, Knockinaam, Lochans, Stoneykirk, Stranraer.

 

PORT WILLIAM   82 : NX 3343  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 161)

    Small port and resort founded by Sir William Maxwell in c.1775 in the valley of the Killantrae Burn. Planned settlement in early C19.

    Free Church (1862-3 & 91): Disused church with lancet windows and metal bellcote. 1891 manse behind.

    Harbour (1790 & 1898): At mouth of the Burn. Pier extends into deeper water. Prominent gatepiers at The Square. Coastguard surface craft base.

    King’s Loop: Rue of Doury was an old landing point (or port), often used for smuggling.

    ROC Monitoring Post (1961-91): Extant surface features of underground post.

    The Square: Buildings in area include the Monreith Arms Hotel, disused corn mill (c.1800), and the Bank of Scotland (1858).

    West Galloway Wildlife Trail information board on lay-by N of the village.

    S. Barsalloch Point: See Monreith.

    N. Clone Point (4800 BC): Mesolithic campsites in hollow on raised beach. An excavation here produced over 1600 flint tools.

    S. North Barsalloch (4800 BC): Mesolithic campsites in hollow on raised beach.

    N. Philip and Mary: Believed to be named after a Spanish Galleon that was wrecked on this spit.

    Also see Chapel Finian, Drumtroddan, Elrig, Mochrum Village, Monreith, Ravenstone, Whauphill.

 

POWFOOT   85 : NY 1465  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 137)

    Solway village (c.1800) with range of fishermen’s’ cottages, an English development of red-brick houses and pleasure grounds.

    Beach: Sandy beach suitable for paddling. CP for sandy area is at W end of the local coastal road.

    Ornamental Lake: Pow Burn was dammed to form the lake, but it is now drained.

    Powfoot Golf Club (1903): A links 18-hole course with views over the Solway Firth.

    E. Broom: See Newbie.

    E. Royal Ordnance Powfoot: See Newbie.

    Also see Annan, Brydekirk, Carrutherstown, Clarencefield, Cummertrees, Eastriggs, Hoddom, Newbie, Ruthwell.

 

QUEEN’S WAY, THE   77/83 : NX 4265 - 6377  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 77-78, 101-102 & 125)

    Scenic road (A712) between New Galloway and Newton Stewart. Named for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977 by Princess Anne.

    See Clatteringshaws, Galloway Forest Park, Galloway Kite Trail, New Galloway, Newton Stewart, Raiders Road, Talnotry.

 

RAIDERS ROAD   77/85 : NX 5475 - 6571  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 77 & 103-104)

    A seasonal 10mi/16.1km forest drive (toll) in the GFP from the A712 at Clatteringshaws Dam to the A762 at Bennan near Mossdale.

    There are ruined settlements adjacent to the Raiders Road, notably Clachrum near Stroan Loch.

    Galloway Kite Trail: Route around Loch Ken (& Raiders Road April-Oct) with viewing/information areas. Signposted by a Red Kite symbol.

    Otter Pool: A focal point on the Blackwater of Dee with CP, picnic site and toilets. Otter statue.
    S. The Auchencloy Monument: See Loch Skerrow.

SE. Stroan Loch: CP, picnic site and walks by the Stroan Viaduct (1861) that once carried the ‘Port Line’ (Dumfries-Stranraer railway line 1861-1965). Stroan Viaduct Memorial.

Also see Balmaclellan, Clatteringshaws, Galloway Kite Trail, Glenlee, Laurieston, Loch Grannoch, Loch Ken, Loch Skerrow, Mossdale, New Galloway, Queen’s Way, Talnotry.

 

RAVENSTONE   83 : NX 4044  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 162)

    Ravenstone Castle (C16 & later): Complex structure with four main building periods. Roofless since 1948 but now being restored.

    Ravenstone Gatehouse (1996): Broad arch flanked by a stair tower and a 2-storey block. Parapet with working machicolation and a barmkin wall to the house is contemplated.

    Swallow Theatre, Mosspark: Tiny theatre in a restored and converted barn.

    Water Pump (C19): Remains of a horse-powered water-pumping equipment nearby the castle.

    W. White Loch: Archaeological site of a crannog.

Also see Cruggleton, Drumtroddan, Garlieston, Glasserton, Isle of Whithorn, Kirkinner, Mochrum Village, Monreith, Port William, Sorbie, Whauphill, Whithorn.

 

RHINNS OF GALLOWAY or THE RHINS

The Rhins is the hammer-headed peninsula at the western extremity of D&G, a district that always had Irish connections.

See Ardwell, Cairngarroch, Clachanmore, Corsewall Point, Crammag Head, Drummore, Ervie, Kirkcolm, Kirkmadrine, Knock and Maize, Knockinaam, Leswalt, Lochans, Lochnaw, Mull of Galloway, Portencalzie, Port Logan, Portpatrick, Sandhead, Stoneykirk, Stranraer, Terally.

 

RHONEHOUSE and KELTON   83/84 : NX 7459  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 131)

    A hill village of C19-20 houses lying to the east of the River Dee and in the parish of Kelton, it was formerly known as Kelton Hill.

    Douglas Mausoleum (1821): Extraordinary Aegypto-Grecian building N of church, with pagoda roof, Doric portal and carved frieze.

    Kelton Mains: See Castle Douglas

    Kelton Old Churchyard (Mid Kelton): Rotating pedestrian entry gate; small fragments of ancient parish church, two Georgian burial enclosures and three WW1 war graves.

    Kelton Parish Church (1805-6 & later): Internal walls are lined with red tiles.

    Threave Bridge: See Bridge of Dee

    Threave Bat Reserve NTS: Scotland’s first bat reserve launched 2010; the reserve is contained by Threaves Estate and is home to 7 species.

    Threave Gardens & Estate NTS: 64-acres/26-hectare of fine gardens including glasshouses and walled garden. Visitor centre.

    Threave House NTS (1872): Refurbished Scots baronial red sandstone villa in Threave Gardens, partly accessible to visitors.

    Threave Castle and Threave Wildfowl Refuge: See Castle Douglas

    S. Auchlane: Slight remains of Auchlane Castle and moat.

    SW. Billies Farmhouse (C19): Wide-eaved Italianate style, with a Gothic centrepiece.

    SW. Dildawn House (1813): Handsome 4-bay mansion. Central bays form 3-bay porch with Roman Doric-columns.

    SW. Kirkcormack (Mayfield): Remains of medieval Kirkcormack Church (St Cormac’s) stands on a motte surrounded by an enclosed small graveyard that includes table stones.

Also see Balmaghie, Bridge of Dee, Buittle, Castle Douglas, Clarebrand, Crossmichael, Gelston, Glenlochar, Haugh of Urr, Kirkcudbright, Old Bridge of Urr, Ringford, Tongland, Whinnieliggate.

 

RINGFORD and TARFF   83/84 : NX 6857  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 152)

    Ringford is a small hamlet with C19-C20 houses, now bypassed.

    Meiklewood (1815): Farmhouse with chimneys on the gables framing the piended roof. Meiklewood Loch is above feeder stream level..

    Railway (1864-1965): Traces of Kirkcudbright branch railway trackbed. Tarff Station was renamed Gatehouse between 1865-1871. Also see Tarff Valley below.

    Tarff: The humpback Old Bridge of Tarff (C18), High Bridge (1832) & Valleyfield Bridge are now all by-passed by the A75.

    Tarff Valley: Farmers’ cooperative on site of old railway station, of which the buildings (identical to Bridge of Dee) still exist.

    Tongland & Twynholm Free Church (1843-4): Tall harled box with gableted bellcote.

    N. Barstobrick: Visitor Centre, restaurant, stables and livery yard. Walks and cycling tracks include Barstobrick Hill. Also see Giant’s Dike and Neilson’s Monument below.

    N. Giant’s Dike: Archaeological site of a fort on Barstobrick Hill.

    N. Neilson’s Monument (1928): Prominent monument on Barstobrick Hill, in memory of the inventor of the hot blast method of smelting iron.

    NNW. Kirkconnell (C18): Harled farmhouse. With C19 farm buildings behind. Further N are the waterfalls of Kirkconnell Linn.

Also see Boreland of Borgue, Bridge of Dee, Castle Douglas, Gelston, Glengap, Glenlochar, Kirkcudbright, Laurieston, Rhonehouse & Kelton, Tongland, Twynholm.

 

ROBIN RIGG   84 (unmarked)

    Site in the Solway Firth 5.6mi/9km off Balcary Point of Scotland's first offshore wind farm with 60 (two rigs of 30) 180mw turbines 122m/400ft high.

    Also see Balcary.

 

ROCKCLIFFE   84 : NX 8453  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 155)

    Attractive estuary village and small resort on Rough Firth; part of the attractive Colvend Coast. The bay is a designated bathing water.

    Jubilee Path & Muckle Lands NTS: Rough coastline and path from Rockcliffe to Kippford – a distance of about 1mi/1.6km.

    Mote of Mark NTS: On the Jubilee Path, a C5 fort, a motte or citadel of some importance within the Kingdom of Rheged.

    Rough Island NTS: Bird sanctuary (closed May-June), accessible by a shingle spit from the Jubilee Path at low tide.

    As well as the above sites, the NTS owns other areas of coastline in the district.

    S. Castlehill Point SSSI: Remains of late Stone Age Barcloy Fort, a fine viewpoint with indicator board. Spectacular cliffs towards Portling.

    S. Nelson’s Grave: Commemorates Joseph Nelson, drowned January 1791 on a voyage from Whitehaven.

    Also see Caulkerbush, Colvend, Dalbeattie, Hestan Island, Kippford, Sandyhills.

 

ROWANBURN   85 : NY 4077  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 91)

    Well kept village built to house miners in the coalfield. Statue of the executed Border Reiver Lang Sandy. The B6357 to Canonbie is a blaze of daffodils in spring.

    Canonbie coalfield (C18-1922): Mining remains from the Blinkbonny and Canonbie collieries lie to the N and W of Rowanburn.

    Canonbie Station (1862-1964): Traces of the station and the Border Union (later North British) Langholm branch railway. Closed to passengers 1964, freight 1967.

    S. Riddings Viaduct (1862): 9-span skew railway viaduct over Liddel Water and Border, closed 1967. Listed building twice as Scotland gives it a higher grading than England.

    Also see Broomholm, Canonbie, Evertown, Gilnockie, Harelaw, Langholm, Scots’ Dike.

 

RUSKO or RUSCO   83 : NX 5858  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 128)

    Situated in the glen of the Water of Fleet.

    Pulcree: Archaeological site of an earthwork castle, it occupies the N end of a tree and bracken covered sandy ridge overlooking the W bank of the River Fleet.

    Rusko (c.1800): Harled lairds house much extended in the C19-C20 when a small tower added. Some artefacts from Rusco Tower.

    Rusco Tower (c.1500 & later): Substantial rectangular tower-house also known as Rusco Castle. The C16 extension now a ruin, but tower restored 1975-9.

    N. Castramont (or Carstramon) Woods SWT & SSSI: Ancient oak woodland. Remains of charcoal burning platforms. Parliament Oak is an old meeting place.

    W. Ornockenoch Reservoir (1930): Built by Commander Cochrane of Rusco to drive a turbine for power to the house and saw mill.

    Also see Cardoness, Gatehouse of Fleet, Gatehouse Station, Girthon, Laghead Bridge, Mossyard.

 

RUTHWELL   85 : NY 1067  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 112 & 137)

    N of village is a site of a small Roman camp; E near Horseclose is a possible site of a Roman camp.

    Ruthwell Cross HS (C8): Most important Anglian cross in Scotland with international reputation. Stands 5.2m/17.1ft high in N asp of church.

    Ruthwell & Mount Kedar Church: Medieval church, altered at various dates to 1906. It contains the Ruthwell Cross.

    Ruthwell & Mount Kedar Graveyard: Two war graves (CWGC), headstones & monuments. Just outside, a hearse house (1875).

    Ruthwell Station: See Clarencefield.

    Savings Banks Museum: First-ever commercial savings bank founded by Revd Henry Duncan 1810. Now a museum on savings banks history etc. Also see Mouswald.

Also see Annan, Bankend, Caerlaverock, Carrutherstown, Clarencefield, Cummertrees, Dalton, Hoddom, Mouswald, Newbie, Powfoot.

 

ST ANN’S   78 : NY 0793  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 44)

    Formerly known as Johnstone, this small hamlet lies on Kinnel Water, which flows through the delightful Raehills Glen (NW).

    Boreland Tower (C16): The only remains are the central vaulted ground floor. Boreland was part of the Lands of Dumgree.

    Raehills Estate: Ornamental footbridges in the estate include an unusual three-way timber bridge below the house. Stables.

    Raehills House (1782 & 1829-34): Unusual house with Egyptian revival and battlemented details. A colonnade runs above the terrace.

    St Ann’s Bridge (1795 & 1817): Broad segmental arch over Kinnel Water with traffic lights. Below is a thickly wooded steep-sided gorge.

    NW. Stiddrig Cairn: Archaeological site of a long cairn. Additional sites in the area include cairns and a hut circle.

Also see Beattock, Courance, Johnstonebridge, Lochwood, Millhousebridge, Newton Wamphray, Parkgate, Shieldhill, Templand.

 

SANDHEAD   82 : NX 0949  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 142 & 159)

    Situated on Sandhead Bay, an inlet of Luce Bay and overlooks an c.8mi/12.9km stretch of golden sands, but only c.3mi/4.8km is open due to the MoD test range (NE).

    Balgreggan: Site of Balgreggan House, designed by William Adam, built in 1730 and demolished in 1966.

    Balgreggan Motte: A dominant motte that forms part of the cliff-terrace above the old raised beach.

    CoS (1962-3): Unusual wooden hall with stone porch and tapering bell tower.
    Sandhead Bay: CP and facilities.

    Stoneykirk Free Church (1844): A harled kirk, now disused. E is the manse (1844-6 & 1889).

Also see Ardwell, Cairngarroch, Clachanmore, Dunragit, Kirkmadrine, Lochans, Port Logan, Stoneykirk, Terally, West Freugh.

 

SANDYFORD   79 : NY 2093  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 46)

    N. Black Esk Reservoir.

    ESE. Hamlin Knowe: Archaeological site of an enclosure.

    W. Carthur Hill: See Boreland.

    Also see Boreland, Eskdalemuir, Moffat Hills, Sibbaldbie.

 

SANDYHILLS and BAREND   84 : NX 8955  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 156)

    Small resort with a fine sandy beach and impressive cliffs; a designated bathing water. Good walking on the Colvend Coast. Offshore salmon trapping poles.

    Electronic water quality sign at Sandyhills provides real-time forecast, covering the bathing season from June to mid September.

    Barend: Sizeable collection of A-framed holiday log houses. Developed from 1972.

    Colvend Golf Club (1905): A parkland 18-hole course with fine views.

    Needles Eye: An arch of rock on the beach below the Torrs.

    Southwick Coast SWT Reserve.

    Torr Hill: Viewpoint from cliffs towards the Lake District.

    N. Drumstinchall (1832): A 3-bay symmetrical laird’s house.

    N. Fairgirth House: Small limewashed laird’s house. Georgian style but dates from C16, it was developed from a monastic grange.

    Also see Caulkerbush, Colvend, Dalbeattie, Kippford, Rockcliffe, Southerness.

 

SANQUHAR and CRAWICK   71/78 : NS 7809  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 173)

    Market town, originally a burgh of barony, royal burgh from 1598. Known for traditional hand-knitting of distinctive black and white pattern. Riding of the Marches festival in August.

    Tourist Information, Tolbooth.

    Brocks Works: Former HQ of Brocks’ fireworks, taken over by Standard and closed in 1988, later a military pyrotechnics factory.

    Castle (C14-C15) & Crichton Peel: Baronial castle plundered for building stone, partly rebuilt and restored. The Keep is mainly complete.

    Council Offices (1814): On front wall is a bronze plaque to Robert Nivison, the first Baron Glendyne of Sanquhar.

    Covenanters Monument, in High Street near library.

    Crawick Mine: A charitable trust backed by the Duke of Buccleuch proposes to transform the former opencast coal mine into a landscape art form by the artist Charles Jencks.

    Crawick Water: Back Wood is a SSSI protected woodland. Also see Corsebank.

    Crawick Water Viaduct (1850): Railway viaduct with six arches. Brick parapets with iron railings.

    Crown (early C19): Has a fine Edwardian pub front.

    Evangelical Union Congregational Church (1844-5): Built as Free Church.

    Forsyth & Upper Nithsdale Pool or FUN Pool (1998): Complex with swimming pools, learner pool and activities.

    Mercat Cross remains (1680): Built into the garden wall of St Ninian’s Manse.

    North UP Church (1849): Simple Gothic frontage somewhat spoilt by a 1954 addition. Now a hall. Memorial obelisk in front.

    Old Academy (1870s-90s): Two blocks in simple Tudor. Front is smart Jacobean Renaissance. Further 1900 block.

    Parish Church, St Bride’s (1822-4): Interesting interior includes medieval stone effigy of a priest and an effigy of St Nicholas (C15).

    Parish Churchyard: Grave slab in shape of two coffins commemorates Rachel Hair and child killed by Cromwellian soldiers (1657).

    Parish Churchyard extension: Contains 14 Commonwealth and 9 polish war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Post Office, 39-41 High Street: The oldest working example in the world, operating continuously since 1712.

    Primary School (1981): Unusual building with pyramid-roofed centre, and ‘swastika’ shaped wings from each corner.

    Queensberry Nursing Home (c.1833): Former Crichton School, two buildings founded under the will of Dr James Crichton.

    Roman fortlet site: Situated by the River Nith at the confluence of the Crawick Water. Possible Roman roads from here to Drumlanrig and Loudoun Hill (E Ayrshire).

    ROC Monitoring Post (1959-91): Extant surface features of underground post.

    St Ninian’s Baptist Church: Formerly the United Associate church (1841-2).

    Sanquhar House (1822-4): White-painted ashlar house, built as the Parish Manse.

    Sanquhar Golf Club: A parkland 9-hole course with countryside views.

    Sanquhar Station (1850): Tudor cottage style. The station closed in 1965 but reopened in 1994.

    Sean Caer: Archaeological earthwork site, said to give the town its name.

    SUW Information Shelter. The SUW passes through the town, then NE towards Wanlockhead.

    Tolbooth (1735-7): Designed by William Adam, a handsome early Georgian building with clock tower. Museum includes samples of Sanquhar Pattern of knitwear.

    Tolbooth Square: “From Bedrock to Sunlight”, is a modern sculpture by Sybille von Halem, inspired by the local geology.

    Town Hall (1882): Mild baronial building, with Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee fountain (1897) in front.

    Town Cross Monument: Modern granite monument commemorates the two Declarations of Sanquhar (1680 &1685).

    NW. Buccleuch Terracotta Works: Operated from C19 to the 1960s. Row of circular kilns with conical hoods.

    SW. Deer, Devil’s or Diel’s Dyke: Ditch and embankment of unknown significance.

    W. Deil’s Dyke: Remains and extant features of the dyke lie to the W of Sanquhar notably in the Barr area; also N of Ulzieside Plantation and N of Cairn Hill. Also see Deil’s Dyke.

    SW. Euchan Glen: An 5mi/8km glen road follows the Euchan Water from Blackaddie Bridge to Glenglass.

    SW. Euchan House Gallery.

    SW. Kemps Castle: Archaeological sites of a fort. Nearby are Euchan Falls.

    N. Orchard: Archaeological site of a cross base or cross socket. W on Kiln Burn is Deil’s Stone, a large boulder classified as a standing stone

    SE. Ryehill Motte: the Anglo-Norman family of De Ros, who held the manor of Sanquhar late C12, probably erected the motte.

    SW. Whiteside Hill: Lies S of the Euchan Water near Glenglass. See Polgown.

    Also see Blackgannoch, Corsebank, Deil’s Dyke, Enterkinfoot, Kirkconnel, Mennock.

 

SCARES   78 : NX 2533 - 2634

    Remote group of islands and islets in Luce Bay danger area, including Big Scare and the Little Scares; an RSPB Nature Reserve and SSSI.

    Also see Monreith, Mull of Galloway.

 

SCAUR WATER GLEN   78 : NX 7999  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 22-24)

    Remote picturesque glen road follows the Scaur Water via Polgown to terminates at Polskeoch (SUW). Hill scenery includes Glenwhargen Craig.

    Auchenhessnane (c.1830): Piend-roofed farmhouse. Low office wing with a forestair (outside stair) at its E gable.

    Chanlochfoot SSSI: Protected area of woodland.

    Scaur Water: Surrounded by birch as far as Carlinstane Bank where there are scenic small waterfalls. Cairns in the area.

    Also see Keir Mill, Marrburn, Penpont, Polgown, Thornhill, Tynron.

 

SCOTS' DIKE or SCOTS DYKE   85 : NY 3373 - 3873  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 116)

    Linear earthwork (trench and dyke) about 3mi/4.8km long, it was constructed in 1552 to mark the border between Scotland and England.

    Scotsdike: Hamlet at E end of Scots’ Dike and on the A7 trunk road. The former toll-house stands on the border.

    Also see Canonbie, Chapelknowe, Evertown, Gilnockie, Gretna, Harelaw, Kirkpatrick Fleming, Rowanburn.

 

SHAWHEAD   84 : NX 8775  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 82)

    Small village of brightly painted C19 cottages; nearby at Old Water is a possible site of two Roman camps.

    NE. Drumclyer (mid-C19): White-painted cottage orné curvaceously bargeboarded.

    N. McNaughton: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Also see Crocketford, Drumpark Bridge, Dumfries, Glenkiln, Holywood, Irongray, Lochfoot, Milton (Crocketford), Springholm, Terregles.

 

SHIELDHILL   78 : NY 0385  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 63)

    Murder Loch (NE of): Site of Roman fortlet and enclosure.

    Railway (1863-1966): Traces of Caledonian Railway Dumfries-Lochmaben-Lockerbie trackbed in the area. Passenger service ceased and Shieldhill Station closed 1952.

    N. Gamerigg Cemetery: Contains 2 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    E. Trailflat Farm: Site of a Roman camp.

    SE. Trailflat Old Church: Remains of medieval church within its burial ground in a commanding position; annexed to Tinwald 1650. Interesting C17-C18 graveslabs and stones.

Also see Ae, Amisfield, Courance, Duncow, Heathhall & Locharbriggs, Kirkton, Lochmaben, Millhousebridge, Parkgate, St Ann’s, Templand, Tinwald, Torthorwald.

 

SHINNEL GLEN   77 : NX 7894  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 39)

    A glen road following the Shinnel Water via Auchenbrack to a forestry area at Appin.

    WNW. Kirkconnel Valley: Remains of St Connel’s Chapel; nearby is St Connel’s Well, a natural spring. (Not to be confused with St Connel’s in Upper Nithsdale - see Kirkconnel).

    Also see Kirkland, Moniaive, Penpont, Tynron.

 

SIBBALDBIE   78 : NY 1487  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 64)

    Hewk House (1806): Small handsome laird’s house.

    S. Balgray House (1883-5): Red sandstone house with Italianate detailing.

    S. Balgray Home Farm Cottage: Early C19 elongated octagon cottage.

    NNW. Broomhillbank Hill: Archaeological sites of two forts.

    ESE. Newfield: Proposed site of new windfarm.

    S. Hillside: Late C19 villa. Pyramid roof square rubble tower houses a doocot.

    E. Firtree Hill: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Also see Boreland, Corrie Common, Lockerbie, Millhousebridge, Sandyford, Templand.

 

SOLWAY COAST HERITAGE TRAIL

    Starting at Annan, this 190mi/306km route mainly follows the D&G coast to the Mull of Galloway. Signposted by blue Celtic Cross symbol.

 

SORBIE   83 : NX 4346  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 162)

    Developed planned village founded late C18 with mainly C19 cottages. Sorbie was once famous for its manufacture of damask.

    Free Church (1843-4): Rubble-built rectangle with Italianate style birdcage bellcote on E gable.

    Low Blair (mid-C19): Rubble-fronted farmhouse.

    Old Parish Church (1755): Roofless shell. Mausoleum of the Earls of Galloway (1735). War grave, under care of CWGC.

    Sorbie Parish Church: See Garlieston.

    Wigtownshire Railway (1876-1964): Traces of trackbed in area and Sorbie Station at Waulkmill (closed 1950). Also see Broughton Skeog below.

    SE. Broughton Mains: Nearby archaeological sites of notable C&Rs.

    SE. Broughton Skeog: Traces of Wigtownshire Railway trackbed at former level crossing (1877-1964) also traces of the short lived Broughton Skeog Station (1877-1885).

    NW. Claunch: C&R.

    W. Doonhill: Archaeological site of a fort.

    E. Sorbie Tower or Old Place of Sorbie (C16): Large L-plan tower-house, consolidated by the Clan Hannay Society.

Also see Bladnoch, Cruggleton, Culmalzie, Drumtroddan, Garlieston, Glasserton, Kirkinner, Ravenstone, Whauphill, Whithorn, Wigtown.

 

SOUTHERNESS   84 : NX 9754  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 157)

    Small resort and holiday village on Southerness Point in the Solway Firth with views across to the Lake District. Southerness is a designated bathing water.

    Lighthouse (1748-9 & 1894): Built by Dumfries traders and one of the earliest lighthouses in Scotland, it was last used in 1936.

    Limekiln: A brass frame of an 1894 lantern from the lighthouse is mounted on the limekiln ruins.

    Southerness Golf Club (1946): A links 18-hole course.

    NE. Preston Cross (1663): Mercat Cross on site of Preston, a C16 Burgh of Regality. By mid C19 the village was abandoned, apart from the cross nothing is now visible.

    NNW Solway Links, East Preston: A coastal pay-and-play 18-hole (9-hole optional) course and a “GolfCross” course.

    NW. West Preston (early C19): Rubble-fronted farmhouse.

    NW. Wreaths Tower (C16): Only the SE corner stands of a once oblong house of four storeys.

    Also see Arbigland, Carsethorn, Caulkerbush, Kirkbean, Sandyhills.

 

SOUTHERN UPLAND WAY

    A 212mi/341km long distance walking route opened 1984 from Portpatrick to Cocksburnspath (Scottish Borders).

    Approximately 120mi/193km of the SUW are in D&G.

See Bargrennan, Beattock, Castle Kennedy, Clatteringshaws, Dalry, Dundeugh, Galloway Forest Park, Galloway Hills, Glenlee, Glen Trool, Glentrool Village, Knock and Maize, Knowe, Laggangarn, Lochans, Loch Dee, Lowther Hills, New Luce, Polbae, Polskeoch, Portpatrick, Sanquhar, Scaur Water Glen, Stroanfreggan, Stranraer, Wanlockhead.

 

SPITTAL and TORHOUSEKIE   83 : NX 3657  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 147)

    Machars locality and road junctions by River Bladnoch.

    Boreland Farmhouse (C19): 3-bay farmhouse with low-pitched roof, the central chimneystack has 10 flues.

    Boreland Mote: Archaeological site of a motte.

    Boreland Standing Stones.

    Mochrum Park: Lodge and gate piers at entrance to country house estate.

    Torhouse Stone Circle HS: Well-preserved Neolithic circle. 19 graded granite dumpy boulders, 3 near centre sometimes known as ‘King Galdus’s Tomb’.

    Torhousekie: Other archaeological sites in the area include cairns and standing stones; 3 upended boulders (possibly a former circle) lie E of the stone circle across the road.

    White Cairn (Boreland): Archaeological site of a cairn.

    NNW. Killiemore (C19): Large 2-storey 3-bay whinstone house with granite dressings. 3-stage tower and 2-storey piend-roofed wing added late C19. Restored 2008.

    Also see Bladnoch, Carty Port, Causeway End, Culmalzie, Kirkcowan, Mindork, Newton Stewart, Wigtown.

 

SPRINGHOLM   84 : NX 8070  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 107)

    Planned village of c.1800. Altered C19 cottages and C20 development strung along the busy A75.

    Barr Hill: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Newbank Mill (c.1804): Built as a woollen mill.

Also see Castle Douglas, Clarebrand, Corsock, Crocketford, Dalbeattie, Haugh of Urr, Kirkpatrick Durham, Knockvennie, Milton (Crocketford), Old Bridge of Urr, Shawhead.

 

STAIRHAVEN   82 : NX 2053  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 144)

    Hamlet with a small harbour situated at the east shore of Luce Bay. Ruined pier and a small sand and rock beach.

    Coastal Walk: A coastal cliff walk via the Mull of Sinniness to Auchenmalg opened 2000.

    Stair Haven Broch: Inaccessible remains of an Iron Age broch is above the shore and below the cliff (S).

    Torrs Warren-Luce Bay SSSI. See Dunragit.

    SSE. Laigh Sinniness: Archaeological site of a fort.

    SE. Sinniness Castle (late C16): Fragmentary ruin of a tower house, only the north-east angle now stands.

    Also see Auchenmalg, Chapel Finian, Dunragit, Glenluce.

 

STAPLEGORDON   79 : NY 3587  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 68)

    Former parish known as Staplegortoun, the church (C12) was transferred to Langholm in 1702.

    Barntalloch Castle: Archaeological site of a motte-and-bailey dating from late C12 with signs of a later second building.

    Churchyard: The site of the church was near the centre. Most monuments are C19 with a line of C18 headstones. One war grave. C7-C8 cross-slab set in wall.

    Clark Fell: Archaeological site of a small fort or defended settlement.

    Henwell: Archaeological site of a settlement.

.   Milnholm (c.1780 & later): Rendered farmhouse and rubble-build steading. S & W are archaeological site of two settlements.

    Potholm (c.1840): Broad-eaved and bay-windowed farmhouse. To the E is an archaeological site of a palisaded settlement.

    SW. Craigcleuch: See Langholm.

    Also see Bentpath, Broomholm, Ewes, Langholm, Wauchope Schoolhouse.

 

STONEYKIRK   82 : NX 0853  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 142)

    Small C19 village dominated by a disused parish church (1827), interior recast 1901-2. Vernacular buildings around the churchyard, it contains 4 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Stoneykirk Cemetery: Contains 18 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Stoneykirk Free Church: See Sandhead.

    W. Kildonnan: Archaeological site of an earthwork on Doon Hill.

    SE. Windmill (c.1900): In trees to left of A716 a ruin of a small windmill tower - probably a scutching mill to prepare flax for spinning.

Also see Ardwell, Cairngarroch, Castle Kennedy, Clachanmore, Dunragit, Kirkmadrine, Knockinaam, Lochans, Portpatrick, Sandhead, Stranraer, West Freugh.

 

STRANRAER   82 : NX 0660  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 182-183)

    Port at head of Loch Ryan. Rail terminal and former ferry terminal for Belfast. Also see Cairnryan.

    An administrative, educational and market town for large area. Created a burgh of barony 1595, and a royal burgh 1617.

    Second largest town in Dumfries & Galloway with a population of 10,380 (2008 estimate, GROS). A busy town with narrow streets.

    Tourist Information Centre, 28 Harbour Street: Open all year.

    Academy (1962-5): Originally built as two schools (Academy and High School) linked by gymnasium and swimming pool.

    Agnew Park: Seafront gardens with miniature railway. Memorial to the Princess Victoria car ferry which sank in 1953 with the loss of 130 passengers and crew.

    Cairnryan Military Railway (1941-1959/1962): Brick abutment of London Road Bridge on A75, and traces of trackbed in the area. Also see Castle Kennedy.

    Castle of St John (c.1510): Oldest building in the burgh, a 4-storey tower house. Converted to a prison 1821-2. Now a Visitor Centre.

    Church Street: Dunbar House (1823), Arkhouse Inn (c.1800), and No 12, 71-75 are of interest. Also see Old Parish Church below.

    Council Offices: Red sandstone buildings in Sun St.

    D&G College: The Stranraer campus in Lewis St opened in 1990.

    Fountain (1897): Built in cast iron for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Relocated to Castle of St John.

    Galloway Community Hospital (2006): Replaced the Dalrymple Hospital (closed 2006) and the Garrick Hospital (closed 2007).

    Gallowhill: Under Forestry Commission ownership with planned community woodland that will include a path network; 160,000 broadleaves had been planted by 2011.

    George Hotel: Former coaching inn probably remodelled 1876 from earlier building. Jacobean detailing and mansard roof.

    Glebe Cemetery: Contains 52 Commonwealth and 3 Polish war graves, in care of CWGC. Also see Steuchan Cemetery below.

    Golden Cross: A late Victorian public house. On the front gable a stone sundial inscribed ‘Stranraer 1732’.

    Hanover Street: Curious tall French mansard roof over shop and house block. Also see L’Aperitif & St Andrews below.

    Harbour - East Pier (1861 &1979 etc): Rail added 1898. Following Stena Line relocating to Cairnryan 2011 the port is now being decommissioned.

    Harbour – West Pier (1978-9): Small 1930s Art Deco harbour office at the shore end.

    High Kirk (1841 & later): Dark building of whin with battlemented tower. Chancel refurnished 1912 in Scots Catholic manner.

    L’Aperitif Restaurant (C18): Formerly Ivy House with ball-finialed pediment and Venetian windows.

    Lewis St Gospel Hall (1843-4): Built as Free Church, remodelled 1845-6. Glazed frontage with central pagoda-like bellcote.

    Lifeboat Station (1974) with D class lifeboat.

    London Rd: Houses of interest include Rephad (cottage orné c.1850); Viewfield (Victorian 1876); and Roslyn (Edwardian 1907).

    Masonic Hall (1843): Built as Original Secession Church it retains original large preaching box.

    Newington Leisure Centre: A multi-use sports & leisure centre.

    North-West Castle: Incorporates a tall villa (c.1820). Former home of Artic explorer Sir John Ross.

    Old Military Road: Fine views of Stranraer on the descent from Ochtrelure to the town.

    Old Parish Church (1838-41): Pair of ornate lamp-standards were former Provost’s lamps of the burgh.

    Old Town Hall (1777): Octagonal belfry and spire. Extended 1854-5. Now town museum with archaeological collections and displays.

    Railway: Remains of the old Portpatrick Railway (1862-1959), also buildings of Stranraer Town station and sheds (closed 1966). Also see Stranraer Station below.

    Reformed Presbyterian Church (1824-5): With piended roof and high-set windows. Hall is from 1898.

    Relief Church (1821): 3-bay frontage with door and lower windows under unusually deep projecting cornices, now a church hall.

    Royal Bank of Scotland (1874): Formerly Commercial Bank in Italianate style is the town’s most commanding commercial building.

    Ryan Centre: Sports centre, swimming pool and theatre.

    St Andrew’s CoS (1896-8): Former UP church in compact style with rich interior.

    St Joseph’s RC Church (1852-3): In 1924 the tower and a stained glass circular chancel window (made in Antwerp) were added.

    St Ninian’s CoS (1883-4): Fine Gothic, originally W UP with trademark rose window. Interior has stencilled ceiling.

    Sheriff Court (1871-4): Tudor style in red Galashiels sandstone and buff Hexham stone. Dragon gargoyles. Former prison at rear. Also see Stranraer WM below.

    Southern Upland Way: The SUW passes around Stranraer to the S, a new link path starts from London Road/Station Street.

    Stair Park (1905): Contains a cast-iron Saracen Foundry bandstand marking the coronation of King George V in 1911.

    Stair Park Football Ground: Stranraer (“The Blues”), a Scottish Division II team.

    Steuchan Cemetery: Contains 5 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Stranraer Castle: See Castle of St John above.

    Stranraer Station: Situated at the end of East Pier. It is proposed to foreshorten the line to Port Rodie.

    Stranraer WM (1920): A bronze statue of a soldier on Creetown granite plinth stands in front of the Sheriff Court.

    Waterfront: Planned development of housing, business and leisure and casino to cover the former harbour area. The 1st stage of the development (marina) opened 2008.

    Waverley Lane: Site of Wigtownshire Combination Poorhouse (1851), it could accommodate 362 inmates. The buildings were demolished 1977.

Also see Auchmantle, Cairnryan, Castle Kennedy, Dunragit, Ervie, Innermessan, Kirkcolm, Knock and Maize, Leswalt, Lochans, Lochnaw, Portpatrick, Stoneykirk, West Freugh.

 

STROANFREGGAN   77 : NX 6491  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 37)

    Smittens Bridge: From here a 6mi/9.7km road follows the Water of Ken north via Holm of Dalquhairn to Lorg Bridge.

    Stroanfreggan Bridge: Archaeological site of Stroanfreggan Cairn, a Bronze Age cairn E of the SUW.

    Stroanfreggan Craig: Archaeological site of an Iron Age fort.

    Stroanfreggan School: Now a private house. The black corrugated iron building opposite was built in 1935 as an indoor bowling club.

    NNW. Craigengillan Hill (S of): Archaeological site of a cairn.

    Also see Auchenstroan Craig, Carsphairn, Dundeugh, Holm of Dalquhairn.

 

SUNDAYWELL   78 : NX 8184  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 59)

    A complex of land use and settlement remains survive on N side of Glenesslin Burn with medieval and later field banks, defining a conjoined series of irregularly-shaped fields.

    Bogrie Farmhouse (c.1860): Renovated from the original tower-house of Bogrie, it has marked stones from the tower over an arched doorway and over the back door.

    Bogrie Fort: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Brockloch: Remains of small tower (or pele) c.C16. Other archaeological site in the area includes burnt mounds, cairnfields, cairn, a fort and a settlement.

    Sundaywell Moor: An area of rough ground with archaeological sites include a settlement and a number of burnt mounds.

    Sundaywell Tower Farmhouse (1651): Converted to form part of farmhouse in late C18. Archaeological sites in the area of two cairns and four burnt mounds.

    NW. Bogrie Hill: Archaeological site of a cairns and cairnfields, due to afforestation much cannot now be identified.

    SW. Craigenputtock (C19): Here Thomas Carlyle wrote “Sartor Resartus”. Archaeological sites of three burnt mounds in the area.

Also see Castlefairn, Drumpark Bridge, Dunscore, Glenkiln, Glenmidge, Wallaceton.

 

TALNOTRY   77 : NX 4871  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 101-102)

    A district on The Queen’s Way in the GFP between Newton Stewart and Clatteringshaws with fine forest walks.

    Black Loch: Forest sculptures include ‘Eye’ by the loch, and the Quorum stone faces at Grey Mare’s Tail Burn.

    Buck Loop and Grey Mare’s Tail waterfalls: Forest trails. Relics of lead and nickel mines in the area.

    Dunkitterick Cottage: Remains of the birthplace of Alexander Murray.

    Glen of the Bar: A viewpoint with overhang walk. Information board.

    Murray’s Monument (1835): Prominently obelisk commemorates the shepherd boy who became a professor of oriental languages.

    Talnotry Mine SSSI: Protected geological area.

    West Galloway Wildlife Trail information board at Grey Mare’s Tail/Murray’s Monument CP.

    Wild Goat Park.

    E. Brockloch Hill: Galloway Red Deer Range.

    E. McDonald Memorial: Above the range car park a memorial to John McDonald, a ganging-body (itinerant worker), died 1878 by the old Brockloch Bridge in a snowstorm.

    Also see Auchinleck Bridge, Clatteringshaws, Galloway Forest Park, Galloway Hills, Newton Stewart, Queen’s Way, Raiders Road.

 

TARRAS LODGE   79 : NY 4087  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 69)

    Locality and road junction on the Tarras Water between Langholm and Newcastleton (Scottish Borders). CP, picnic site & information board to N of Tarras Lodge.

    Langholm & Newcastleton Hills SPA & SSSI: Protected area of uplands and heath, also special protection area for breeding hen harriers.

    NNE. Cooms: End of the 2.2mi/3.5km sometimes undulating paved road from Tarras Lodge that follows the E side of the Tarras Water.

    Also see Broomholm, Langholm.

 

TEMPLAND   78 : NY 0886  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 63)

    Name indicates that the land once belonged to the Knights Templar (Temple-Land).

    Corncockle Farmhouse (early C19): An unusual farmhouse with castellated centrepiece.

    Corncockle Quarries: Permian red sandstone, extensively worked in late C19 to early C20. Dinosaur footprints were found.

    NNE. Archwood Hill: Archaeological site of a fort.

    W. Cumrue: One of the longest rows of farmworkers’ cottages in Scotland. C19 steading has large granary and cart shed.

    ESE. Gotterbie Moor: Archaeological site of a settlement moat.

    SSE. Kinnel Bridge (1723 & 1821): Two-span bridge with massive cutwaters on the downstream (original) side.

    NE. Spedlins Tower (c.1500): Substantial tower house of the Jardines of Applegarth. Extended upwards 1605, restored 1988-9.

Also see Courance, Hightae, Johnstonebridge, Lochmaben, Lockerbie, Millhousebridge, Parkgate, St Ann’s, Shieldhill, Sibbaldbie.

 

TERALLY   82 : NX 1240  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 168)

    Situated on E Rhins coast road with sand/shingle beaches in the area. Remains of ancient Kirkbride Church.

    Killumpha standing stone.

    Terally Tile Works (c.1840): Former drainage-tile works with substantial remains of an updraught tile kiln, the last in Scotland.

    NNW. Low Eldrig: Site of WW2 airfield, a satellite landing ground for West Freugh, it closed 1942 due to waterlogged runways. Ruins and remains of a few buildings.

    N. New England Bay: CPs and facilities. West Galloway Wildlife Trail information board.

    Also see Ardwell, Clachanmore, Crammag Head, Drummore, Kirkmadrine, Port Logan, Sandhead.

 

TERREGLES   84 : NX 9377  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 83)

    Small L-plan village. Mostly C20 housing, but at the NW end are two picturesque Tudor cottages (1837), one bearing the Maxwell crest.

    Church (1844 & later): Existing church is attached to ‘Quier’ has large slab monument with male effigy. Medieval wood painting.

    Church ‘Quier’ (1585): Unique in being built by RC Maxwells during the Reformation – freedom of worship not permitted until 1779.

    Ladye Well: Possibly once a holy well dedicated to St Mary. Possible site to the S of well was Lady Chapel which stood on or by a motte, but no trace remains of either.

    Maxwell Memorial Hall (1906): Simple style except for wavy bargeboards; the Maxwell crest over the door.

    School (c.1860): Picturesque Tudor. Now in other use.

    Terregles House (1789): Demolished 1964, it is survived by Terregles Stables (1831) in classical red ashlar court style.

    E. Barnhill: Epicentre of the strongest recorded earthquake in D&G - 3.6 on the Richter scale on Boxing Day morning 2006.

    WNW. The Grove (1825 & 69): Drummond House is a red Tudor-Gothic mansion, The Grove was a auxiliary hospital for most of the C20. Gabled timber doocot in stable block.

    NE. Maryfield: Prominent modern L-plan tower house.

Also see Cargenbridge, Drumpark Bridge, Dumfries, Ellisland, Glenkiln, Heathhall & Locharbriggs, Holywood, Irongray, Islesteps, Lincluden, Lochfoot, Mabie Forest, Shawhead.

 

THORNHILL   78 : NX 8795  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 41)

    Small Nithsdale town founded in 1664 as a burgh of barony. Developed in C18 as estate village for Drumlanrig.

    Buccleuch and Queensberry Hotel (1855).

    Drumlanrig Street: Lime trees line the street. Interesting cottages, houses and inns etc.

    Evangelical Union Church (1873-4): Simple Gothic in red sandstone. Now a squash club.

    Joseph Thomson Monument (1896-7): A memorial to the explorer (1858-95) is in East Morton Street. Also see Penpont.

    Market Cross (1714 & 1954): Tall column on large base with fluted shaft; it is surmounted by a bronze winged horse, the emblem of the Queensberry family.

    Morton Cemetery: Contains 11 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Morton Parish Church (1839-41): Big sturdily buttressed sand church in simplified Romanesque style.

    Morton Parish Church - former (1781): Only the gable survives. Interesting headstones and table stones in the kirkyard.

    Museum: Collection of Burns and Covenanters’ relics.

    Nith Bridge (1777-8): Two arch ashlar bridge built by William Stewart.

    Nith Bridge Cross Shaft (C10-C11): On W side of bridge is a fine Anglian sculptured 2.7m/8.9ft cross, complete except for two arms.

    Parish Hall (1893-4): Ebullient red sandstone French Renaissance with plenty of carving and drapery.

    Primary School (1909): A Jacobean Renaissance block situated behind the old academy.

    Thornhill Golf Club, Blacknest (1893): A parkland/heathland 18-hole course with views of the Southern Uplands.

    Thornhill Hospital (1900): Mainly single storey building with small administrative building in centre.

    Virginhall Church (1897-8): Originally Thornhill UP Church in Scots late Gothic. Latterly used as a hall, now disused awaiting buyer.

    Wallace Hall Academy: NW block (1864-5) and nearby schoolhouse (1867) in Tudor style. New Academy is to E (1959-78).

    SW. Archaeological sites of an enclosure and a Roman signal station.

    NE. Auction Mart (1890): Wooden-walled slate-roofed octagon topped by a cupola.

    NE. Railway: 1850 railway bridge. Thornhill Station closed 1965 but is under consideration for reopening.

    SSW. Dalgarnock Churchyard: C18-C19 headstones. A cross (1928) commemorates 57 Nithsdale Covenanters. Nearby is St Ninian’s Well.

    S. Kirkland: See Closeburn.

    S. Templand Mains: SE on a ridge are extant surface features of a ROC underground monitoring post (1968-91). SW is a standing stone, site of a stone circle.

Also see Auldgirth, Barjarg, Carronbridge, Closeburn, Drumlanrig, Durisdeer, Enterkinfoot, Gatelawbridge, Keir Mill, Kirkland, Loch Ettrick, Penpont, Scaur Water Glen, Tynron.

 

TINWALD   84 : NY 0081  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 178)

    Manse of Tinwald (1837): By Walter Newall. To the N is the roofless shell of the Old Manse (1720).

    Parish Church & Churchyard (1763-5 & 1898-9): Interesting headstones include a martyr’s monument in the churchyard. Views over Nithsdale.

    Parish Churchyard extension: Contains war grave, in care of CWGC.

    Tinwald Shaws Farm (c. late C18): Incorporates a large piend-roofed (intersecting roof) farmhouse.

    SE. Tinwald House (1738-40): A William Adam Palladian mansion. Restored and re-roofed 1946 after fire and restored again 1990.

Also see Ae, Amisfield, Cargenbridge, Collin, Dalswinton, Dumfries, Duncow, Heathhall & Locharbriggs, Holywood, Kirkton, Lincluden, Parkgate, Shieldhill, Torthorwald.

 

TONGLAND   83/84 : NX 6953  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 152)

    Carse Mote: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Neilson of Queenshill Mausoleum: Busts include James Neilson, inventor of the hot-blast system of iron-smelting.

    Old Church (1773): Remains of old church in churchyard, with fragments of a C12 abbey or house of canons (attached to Whithorn).

    Parish Church (1813): Tudor style with tower - now roofless and neglected.

    Parish Churchyard: Contains war grave, in care of CWGC. Also see Neilson Mausoleum and Old Church above.

    Prince of Wales’ Viaduct (1863): Remains of red sandstone viaduct for the Kirkcudbright Railway.

    Tongland Bridge (1804-8): Masterpiece in Annan and Arran stone by Thomas Telford. Three flood arches. Bicentennial plaque.

    Tongland Dam GHES: Gravity dam & floodgates. 29-pool salmon ladder, one of the highest in the country. Old 1737 bridge behind.

    Tongland Power Station (1934-5): Art-deco control station for the GHES with large steel surge tank. The power station has three 11-MW generating units.

    Tongland Railway Bridge (1864): Restored remains of northern approach arches on the former Kirkcudbright Branch Railway (1864-1965).

    Tongland & Twynholm Free Church: See Ringford.

    Tongland Works: Built in WW1 to make aero-engines. Adapted after war to make ‘Galloway’ cars; failed in 1930.

    NNE. Bogra House: 1920’s fishing lodge built for the Neilson family.

    N. Park of Tongland: Stone Circle.

    N. Park of Tongland Golf Club: A parkland 9-hole (18 tees) course with practice range.

Also see Bombie, Boreland of Borgue, Bridge of Dee, Dhoon Bay, Glengap, Kirkcudbright, Rhonehouse & Kelton, Ringford, Townhead, Twynholm, Whinnieliggate.

 

TORTHORWALD   84 : NY 0378  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 85)

    Cruck Cottage (late C18): Restored (1990-2 & 2004) thatched cottage with curved oak crucks.

    Parish Church (1782 & earlier): In W cable is a carved slab from 1450.

    Parish Churchyard: Contains 3 war graves, in care of CWGC. Interesting gate plaques & monuments.

    Roucan Loch (2005): D&G’s only crematorium, a picturesque Scandinavian style building in developing bucolic grounds.

    Torthorwald Castle: Motte type structure c.C12, the existing stone ruins are c.C14 and occupied until 1715. Enclosure to the S was a bailey.

    N. Skipmyre: Birthplace (1658) of William Paterson, associated with the ill-fated Darien Scheme of 1698 (Panama), he was also the founder of the Bank of England.

Also see Amisfield, Cargenbridge, Carrutherstown, Collin, Dumfries, Duncow, Heathhall & Locharbriggs, Hightae, Kirkton, Lincluden, Lochmaben, Mouswald, Shieldhill, Tinwald.

 

TOWNHEAD   83/84 : NX 6946  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 166)

    The area around and E of Townhead towards Port Mary is the MoD Kirkcudbright Training Range: Danger area with restricted access.

    Townhead is a moated and settlement site, possibly had economic connections with the Cistercian monks at Dundrennan.

    Blackhill: C&R.

    King’s Barracks: MoD barracks in Townhead for the Kirkcudbright Training Range.

    W. Bathinghouse Bay: Situated at the lower end of River Dee as it enters Kirkcudbright Bay; here is Kirkcudbright Lifeboat Station.

    SW. Castle Hill: Archaeological site of a fort (Drummore Castle).

    SW. Drummore: Archaeological site of the remains of a stone circle.

    SE. Dunrod (in danger area): Archaeological remains of a notable settlement moat and site of Dunrod village. Also church ruins and graveyard: See below.

    SE. Dunrod Graveyard: Small graveyard with a crude font bowl by entrance, it contains the a number of tombstones and the remains of the church.

    SE. Dunrod Parish Church (C12): St Mary & St Brioc church was annexed to Kirkcudbright parish in 1683, it is now just an rubble outline containing tombstones.

    NE. Galtway Hill: Archaeological site of a cairn, with C&Rs in the area. West between the hill and church was the site of Galtway village - no discernible remains.

    NNE. Galtway Parish Church: Remains of ancient St Michael’s Church, annexed to Kirkcudbright parish in 1683. The graveyard contains several members of the Selkirk family.

    NNW. Grange: C&R.

    NE. Milton: Archaeological site of a fort.

    NNW. Mutehill: Locality on the east side of Manxman’s Lake, an inlet of Kirkcudbright Bay.

    NE. North Milton: N is the archaeological site of High Fort; E is another site of a fort.

    SSE. Raeberry: Site of Raeberry Castle of which the only remains are earthworks.

    SW. Torrs: A number of C&Rs in the area.

    SW. Torrs Point: From here the coast E to Mason’s Walk is an SSSI protected area. Also see Dundrennan.

    W. Torrs Shore: Kirkcudbright Lifeboat Station (1892) with boathouse, slipway, and B class lifeboat. Original lifeboat station (1862) was at Creekhead in Kirkcudbright town.

    Also see Bombie, Dundrennan, Kirkcudbright, Tongland, Twynholm, Whinnieliggate.

 

TWYNHOLM   83/84 : NX 6654  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 152)

    Substantial village, once a busy place with a corn mill, sawmills and a centre for blanket and tweed weaving.

    Arden: Archaeological site of a fort.

    Parish Church (1818 & 1913-4): In Tudor style it retains two early box-pews. The Porch added 1963. Martyrs headstone in churchyard.

    Twynholm Village Gardens (2005): Footbridge links Main Street and Kirk Brae. Large sundial and hand-carved F1 car.

    NE. Barwhinnock House (C19): Regency cottage/villa with exceptionally fine entrance hall and paired stairs.

    NE. Barwhinnock grounds: Octagonal lodge. Walled oval garden.

    SE. Cumstoun (1828 & 1891): Large Gothic or Tudor mansion-house. Interior is dark Jacobean baronial.

    SE. Cumstoun Castle (C16): Ruins of a tower house of which only the SW half of the castle survives.

    SE. Cumstoun grounds: Early C19 3-bay Garden House with Gothic windows. C19 stone byre with square cupola doocot. Archaeological site of an earthwork.

    E. Kempleton Mill (1785): A 2-3 storey mill. The former driving wheel now in use at Mill on the Fleet (Gatehouse of Fleet).

Also see Bombie, Boreland of Borgue, Borgue, Bridge of Dee, Dhoon Bay, Gatehouse of Fleet, Girthon, Glengap, Kirkcudbright, Ringford, Tongland, Townhead, Whinnieliggate.

 

TYNRON   78 : NX 8092  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 40)

    A classic kirkton with a single row of early C19 cottages curving round a knoll on which are the church, manse, school and schoolhouse.

    Aird Linn: Waterfall on the Shinnel Water.

    Churchyard: Has an inscribed martyr’s stone and some interesting C18 tombstones.

    Kirkland (late C18 & 1840): A laird’s house with central chimneyed pediment.

    Lann Hall (late-C18): Harled lairds house. Behind, a wall garden of 1807.

    Parish Church (1835-7): Lancet Gothic, converted to a house.

    Stenhouse Wood SSSI & SWT: Protected woodland reserve.

    Tynron Bridge (1785-6): Slightly humpbacked bridge over the Shinnel Water, built by William Stewart.

    SW. The Aiks: A narrow steep road climbs through this wooded area, later opens up with fine views of Moniaive from Dunreggan Brae.

    NE. Tynron Doon: Conspicuous Iron Age fort with bold scarped ramparts/defences, traces of hut circle. Site of Tynron tower-house (C16 demolished c.1750). Fine views.

    E. Tynron Juniper Wood: See Penpont.

    Also see Castlefairn, Dalwhat Glen, Gatelawbridge, Keir Mill, Kirkland, Moniaive, Penpont, Scaur Water Glen, Shinnel Water, Thornhill, Wallaceton.

 

WALLACETON   78 : NX 8487  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 59)

    Situated in the fertile valley of the Cairn Water between Dunscore and Maxwelton.

    Snadesmill: Ford across the Cairn from Wallaceton. Site of a level crossing and keepers house on the former railway.

    NW. Auchenfedrick: Slight remains & sites of a group of medieval (& later) buildings including a kiln-barn, long-building & two towers or peles. Archaeological sites in area.

    NNW. Breckonside Tower (c.C16): Remains of a tower-house (or ‘pele’) and outbuildings. Archaeological sites in the area of burnt mounds.

    NW. Crossford: Site of former station with traces of the Cairn Valley Railway (1905-1949 Dumfries-Moniaive).

    S. Snade: Archaeological site of earthworks which was the site of Snade Castle or Place of Snade (c.C14-C15). N is Orchard Mote, another notable earthwork.

    NW. Stewarton: Traces of Stewarton Tower or pele (c.C16); archaeological site to S of a burnt mound.

    E. White Cairn: Archaeological site of a long cairn.

    Also see Auldgirth, Barjang, Drumpark Bridge, Dunscore, Ellisland, Glenmidge, Keir Mill, Kirkland, Moniaive, Penpont, Sundaywell, Tynron.

 

WANLOCKHEAD   71/78 : NS 8712  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 11)

    Highest village in Scotland at 467m/1532ft). A former lead, silver and gold mining centre with remains of mines, smelt mills and tramways.

    Views of radar domes and telecommunications mast on top of Green Lowther (732m/2402ft).

    Beam Engine HS: Water-bucket pumping engine used to pump water from the Straitsteps lead seam.

    Burial Ground: The graveyard contains 3 war graves, in care of CWGC. Gravestones from 1790s to 1880s include stones of miners killed in accidents.

    Church (1847-8): A buttressed box of harled rubble. The interior has been subdivided, but the E end still has furnishings.

    Leadhills-Wanlockhead SSSI: Protected geological area.

    Leadhills & Wanlockhead Railway (1902-39): Caledonian light railway branch ran between main line at Elvanfoot (Lanarkshire) via Leadhills to enter D&G at Wanlockhead.

    Leadhills & Wanlockhead Railway (1988): Narrow-gauge built on former track Leadhills-Glengonnar (on the South Lanarkshire boundary), planned to extend to Wanlockhead.

    Lotus Lodge is a SYHA.

    Mennock Water: The road W together with the Mennock Water meanders down via the Mennock Pass down into Nithsdale. See Mennock.

    Miners’ Library (1756): Second oldest subscription library in Europe (after Leadhills) established by 32 miners. Bronze plaque to the local poet Robert Reid.

    Museum of Lead Mining: With Visitor Centre and Heritage Trail.

    New Glencrieff Mine: The last mine to be closed - late 1950s.

    SUW Information Shelter: The route of the SUW south is over Lowther Hill along the D&G and South Lanarkshire boundary. NW the SUW route leads next to Sanquhar.

    Wanlockhead Museum Trust: Owns the church and library, and looks after the Pates Knowes lead smelter and a row of cottages.

    Also see Lowther Hills, Mennock.

 

WATERBECK   85 : NY 2477  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 89)

    Pleasant small village with mainly unaltered mid C19 cottages.

    Drumlea: Small Woodland Trust reserve.

    UP Church (1868-9): Big Gothic cruciform with broached spire and a fine spacious interior.

    Also see Bankshill, Burnswark Hill, Chapelknowe, Craighousesteads, Eaglesfield, Ecclefechan, Fallford Bridge, Kirtlebridge, Middlebie.

 

WAUCHOPE SCHOOLHOUSE   79 : NY 3281  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 67 & 90)

    Locality situated between Langholm and Fallford Bridge, at the beginning of Wauchope Water that runs into the Esk at Langholm.

    Bigholms Burn SSSI: A small protected geological area by the confluence of Back Burn.

    Wauchope Churchyard: See Langholm.

    E. Archaeological site of an enclosure.

    N. Clagberry Hill: Approved site of Craig Farm wind farm with 4 turbines.

    NW. Cockgair Hill: Archaeological site of a settlement.

    WNW. Cock Law: Archaeological site of a cairn.

    NNW. Gibb’s Hill: Archaeological site of palisaded settlements and timber round-houses.

    Also see Broomholm, Canonbie, Evertown, Fallford Bridge, Gilnockie, Langholm, Staplegordon.

 

WEST FREUGH   82 : NX 1054  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 143)

    West Freugh Airfield (1936): Former MOD Airfield with distinctive golf ball radar, hangers etc. Site of the RNAS Luce (East Freugh) airship station in WW1.

    Luce Bay is a MoD test range: Danger area with restricted access.

    S. Clayshant Bridge (W of): Archaeological site of a pitfall.

Also see Ardwell, Cairngarroch, Castle Kennedy, Clachanmore, Dunragit, Glenluce, Kirkmadrine, Lochans, Sandhead, Stoneykirk, Stranraer.

 

WHAUPHILL   83 : NX 4049  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 162)

    Barnbarroch (1780-1942): Ruined mansion of the Vans Agnews of Sheuchan. Remains of a John Claudius Loudon gardens.

    Barwhanny Windmill (c.1800): Tapering tower that once had a cap and sailings to power a threshing mill.

    Wigtownshire Railway (1876-1964): Traces of trackbed in the area. Whauphill Station (closed 1950) retains its station house (now residential and post office) and stone shed.

    SSW. Annat Hill: Slight archaeological remains of an enclosure.

    SSW. Boreland of Longcastle: Probable site of a chapel on Chapel Hill.

    S. Dowalton Loch Site (SSSI): Former shallow loch drained in 1862 but base proved too rocky for cultivation. The E end is Dowalton Marshes SWT.

    S. Dowalton Loch Site Archaeology: Sites include crannogs (including Miller’s Cairn); finds include 4-5 logboats, a Romano-British dragonesque broach and a Roman patera.

    SW. Kirkland of Longcastle: See Drumtroddan.

    SE. Little Airies: Cheese Farm.

    S. Long Castle (c.C14): Archaeological remains of Long Castle on a mound surrounded by marsh which once was an island in Dowalton Loch.

    SW. Longcastle Schoolhouse: Now a private residence. Nearby is an archaeological site of a standing stone, 1.47m/4.10ft high.

    SSE. Stonehouse (W of): Archaeological site of a crannog.

Also see Bladnoch, Culmalzie, Drumtroddan, Elrig, Garlieston, Kirkinner, Mochrum Village, Port William, Ravenstone, Sorbie, Wigtown.

 

WHINNIELIGGATE   83/84 : NX 7152  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 153)

    WSW. Brockcleugh: C&R.

    SW. Camphill: Archaeological site of a fort or settlement moat site; possibly had economic connections with the Cistercian monks at Dundrennan.

    WSW. Lochfin: Extant surface features of a ROC underground monitoring post (1964-91).

    SW. Meikle Sypland (W of): Archaeological site of a fort.

    Also see Bombie, Boreland of Borgue, Dhoon Bay, Dundrennan, Gelston, Kirkcudbright, Rhonehouse & Kelton, Tongland, Townhead, Twynholm.

 

WHITHORN   83 : NX 4440  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 171)

    One of the oldest towns in Scotland in terms of continuity of occupancy. A major centre of pilgrimage for over 1100 years and cradle of Christianity in Scotland.

    A burgh from 1325 and royal burgh 1511 situated in the Machars peninsula, Whithorn is a linear village with C18 and C19 cottages.

    Cemetery: Memorial granite seat to those lost when the “Solway Harvester” sank off the IOM in January 2000. 8 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Christianity in Scotland probably began at Whithorn – here St Ninian built his Candida Casa early in the C5.

    Churchyard HS: Remains of the medieval monastic cathedral/priory, and most prominently - the nave. C12 carved doorway.

    Free Church (1844): Disused and derelict.

    George Street: Memorial plaque on No.76 commemorates the poetess Jeanie Donnan.             

    Museum HS: Houses the important early Christian crosses, cross-slabs and carved stones of Whithorn.

    New Town Hall (1885-6): Dark whinstone building with mullioned and transomed windows.

    St John’s (1892): A&C Gothic, formerly Whithorn UP Church. Now a garage with the filling-station kiosk in the former church entrance.

    St Ninian’s Priory Parish Church (1822): On the site of the E range of the medieval cloister.

    SS Ninian, Martin & John RC Church (1959-60): A pitched slated roof church with double bellcote and a wooden ‘belfry’.

    The Pend: A fine C17 archway and former gatehouse of the Priory. Carved with the Royal Arms of Scotland before the Union.

    The Whithorn Story: Displays use models and objects revealed by archaeology to tell the story of the town and pilgrimage centre.

    Town House & Steeple (1814): 5-storey tower with clock and belfry. Prison at its base and wing. 1st floor council chamber in house.

    Wigtownshire Railway (1877): Traces of the Whithorn-Newton Stewart railway to N. Whithorn Station site now the fire station. Line closed to passengers 1950, freight 1964.

    NW. Bailliewhirr Grasslands SSSI: Protected area situated to the south side of the road at Bailliewhirr.

    NW. E. Castlewigg House (1593 & 1800): The original C16 Castle Wigg formed part of the house, now a roofless ivy-glad ruin. Remains of John Claudius Loudon gardens.

    SW. Rispain Camp HS (c.60 BC): Iron Age settlement, a defended native homestead with a surrounding bank and deep ditch.

    Also see Cruggleton, Drumtroddan, Garlieston, Glasserton, Isle of Whithorn, Monreith, Ravenstone, Sorbie.

 

WIGTOWN   83 : NX 4355  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 188)

    A Royal Burgh from 1292 or earlier, and again from 1455. The county town of Wigtownshire until 1975. Triangular market place.

    Scotland’s National Book Town since 1998 with 25 bookshops, publishers and book dealers; also arts & craft shops. Book fairs & festivals throughout the year.           

    Church of the Sacred Heart (1879): Simple brick-built Gothic RC church.

    County Hall (1862-3 & 2002-3): Impressive former Wigtownshire HQ of Victorian Gothic design. Museum & Wigtown Bay viewing gallery.

Covenanter’s Monument: Martyrs’ Stake, a stone post near CP (at old railway embankment) marks the approximate site of the drowning of two women Covenanters.

Harbour (1822): Small quayed basin in bank of the Cree Estuary (SSSI) accommodated commercial sailing ships until late C19.

    Main Street: 11, 18 & 22 South Main Street all have classical doorpieces or porticoes.

    Market Crosses: Old cross of 1738 has a square sundial. Neighboured by a “Waterloo” Cross of 1816 with a fine base.

    Martyrs’ Cell: Situated under the Wigtown County Buildings, originally part of an earlier Court House.

    Martyrs’ Stake: See Covenanter’s Monument above.

    Old Bank: Large Ionic doorpieces on front and E side.

    Old Jail, Harbour Rd (1846-8): Like a large Tudor villa with fine display of chimneys. Now a private house.

    Parish Church (1851): Large Gothic granite church with tower. Carved stones in the transept.

    Parish Churchyard: Two Covenanting tombstones (1685); piece of C10 cross-shaft; fragments of old parish church; notable yew tree and one War Grave in care of CWGC.

    Railway: Traces in area of the Whithorn-Newton Stewart trackbed (1877-1950/1964) and Wigtown Station platform.

    The Square: Large rectangle, its centre filled with a bowling green and public garden (1809).

    Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve: Largest local nature reserve in Britain. West Galloway Wildlife Trail information board.

    Wigtown & Bladnoch County Golf Course: A 9-hole parkland course.

    Wigtown Castle: Site of castle lies N of harbour, bounded on the N by a wide moat.

    Wigtown Cemetery: Contains 5 war graves, in care of CWGC.

    Wigtown House Hotel (1840): Former British Linen Company Bank. Chimneys grouped like a belvedere on centre of the roof.

    Wigtownshire Railway: Traces of trackbed & station. Line opened 1875 from Newton Stewart, extended to Garlieston 1876, Whithorn 1877. Closed 1950 passenger, 1964 freight.

    WM (1921-2): Big tower-like granite monument, its front carved with a laurel-wreathed sword.

    ESE. Stairfield: Little Balsmith standing stone.

    W. Windyhill (1858): Martyrs’ monument in form of an obelisk.

    Also see Bladnoch, Carty Port, Causeway End, Culmalzie, Kirkinner, Newton Stewart, Sorbie, Spittal, Whauphill.

 

WINDY STANDARD   77 : NS 6101  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 21)

    A summit and wind farm in the Galloway Hills 6.2mi/10km W across roadless hill country from the Holm of Dalquhairn and about 10-13mi/16-21km E of Lamford (A713).

    Blue Stones: Nearby is a boulder called the Deil’s Putting Stone.

    Windy Standard Wind Farm: Online since 1996 with 36 turbines. Consent was given in 2007 for an extension with a further 30 turbines.

    Also see Galloway Hills, Holm of Dalquhairn.

 

WOOD OF CREE   77 : NX 3870  (Philip’s D&G Street Atlas 100)

    SSSI and a RSPB Nature Reserve: Largest ancient oak woodland in southern Scotland on River Cree. Interesting woodland walks.

    E. Drannandow: Archaeological sites in the area include a ruinous ring of six remaining stones and Drumfern Cairn.

    E. Napper’s Cottage: Archaeological sites in the area include a chambered cairn.

    ENE. The Thieves: Archaeological site of two tall standing stones.

    NE. Cordorcan Burn: Archaeological site of cairns.

    NNW. Silver Mine: Small C19 silver/lead mine. Remains include air & lifting shafts, a water wheel pit and a lade water supply.

    Also see Auchinleck Bridge, Bargrennan, Challoch, Galloway Forest Park, Glentrool Village, Newton Stewart.