Galloway Forest Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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Forests

About Galloway Forest Park

The Galloway Forest Park is Britain’s largest forest park, which was established in 1947. It is often referred to as ‘the Highlands of the Lowlands’ and attracts around 800,000 thousand visitors each year. Home to dramatic ancient woodland, magnificent scenery and an astonishing range of local wildlife, the park is perfect for the whole family.

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Attractions Near Galloway Forest Park

Dalcairney Falls

Dalcairney Falls

3.14km from Galloway Forest Park

This picturesque waterfall lies off of a minor road near Doon Bridge, around a mile west of Dalmellington. It is a popular spot for both walkers and photographers; during cold weather it can freeze over completely, resulting in a breathtaking scene. Parking is available in Cathcartston where signs for the trail that lead to the waterfall are located.

Ness Glen

Ness Glen

4.41km from Galloway Forest Park

The Ness Glen has a history of being a renowned beauty spot, set off by a spectacular path that runs through it right down alongside the river. From the bottom of the gorge another path returns to the start through the woods at a higher level. The gorge path is meticulously maintained by volunteers. Small bridges, seating areas and resting spots have been have added over the years, which tempers the occasional steepness of the climb.

Doon Valley Railway

Doon Valley Railway

5.32km from Galloway Forest Park

Conquer the unique and historically significant industrial steam and diesel locomotives are restored and can be seen working in an authentic setting. The centre owns a number of standard gauge steam locomotives and diesel locomotives as well as some narrow gauge items and an extensive collection of photographs.

Loch Doon

Loch Doon

8.37km from Galloway Forest Park

A beautiful fresh water loch in Carrick, Scotland. The River Doon issues from its northern end, while the loch itself receives waters from Gala Lane and Loch Enoch via Eglin Lane. The loch was dammed in the 1930s, raising the water some 27 feet to provide seasonal storage for the Galloway hydro-electric power scheme. As a reservoir, Loch Doon has an effective capacity of over 82 million cubic metres. It offers so many leisre activates and also you can spend some nice time with your family too.

Stinchar Bridge

Stinchar Bridge

8.46km from Galloway Forest Park

The Stinchar Bridge, and large Car Park, just in to the left here, are situated 7 miles south of the scenic village of Straiton, next to the B741 road, as seen below. That is the start of the Cornish Hill trail leading into the forest at the T sign.

Loch Doon Castle

Loch Doon Castle

9.3km from Galloway Forest Park

Loch Doon Castle was probably built in the late 1200s by an earl of Carrick – either Robert the Bruce or his father, also called Robert. This was constructed from fine ashlar and was polygonal with eleven uneven sides, its shape being dictated by the terrain of the island. Entrance into the castle was via an arched gateway protected by two heavy timber doors and a portcullis. There was also a small postern gate. The castle was dismantled and rebuilt on the side of the loch after the loch water l

Discover More Attractions in South Ayrshire Council, Home of Galloway Forest Park

South Ayrshire Council

South Ayrshire is one of thirty-two council areas of Scotland, covering the southern part of Ayrshire. It borders onto Dumfries and Galloway, East Ayrshire and North Ayrshire.

Location of Galloway Forest Park

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For more information about Galloway Forest Park, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galloway_Forest_Park