Welcome to Newton Stewart - Gateway to the Galloway Hills
The aim of this web site is to act as a guide to the many attractions, events and activities, available in and around the picturesque market town in the centre of Galloway, south west Scotland.
Also included is information for visitors about places to stay, where to shop & eat, services available and how to travel to and around this beautiful, unspoilt area.
Walkers Are Welcome
Through the joint working of NSBA and the Walking Festival Committee, Newton Stewart now has Walkers are Welcome status which connects us to other towns and villages throughout Britain which have something special to offer walkers. So far we are one of only three in Scotland. more...
The Galloway Hills & Galloway Forest Park
Galloway has the unique benefit of a range of magnificent hills, set around and within the vast Galloway Forest Park, the largest in Britain with 300 square miles of forest, moorland, lochs and peaks. Combined with rolling farmland and over 200 miles of coastline, the opportunities for healthy, natural, outdoor activities are almost limitless.
Newton Stewart sits at the geographical centre of this outdoor enthusiasts' paradise.
Activities & Attractions
Hillwalking here is superb. Large unspoiled areas of great natural beauty and tranquility are dominated by the Merrick at 843m and the slightly lower Cairnsmore. The latter and Wigtown Bay are world class nature reserves. Ornithologists flock to the area together with the geese and other migrant birds during the winter and spring. Trails, developed by Forest Enterprise, for walkers and cyclists and unlimited coastal pathways complete the picture.
The River Cree gives access for salmon anglers in pursuit of their quarry, while trout and coarse fishers are provided with excellent sport in the burns and lochs which abound here. Last, but not least, the sea fishing, available from both shore and boat, is of good quality.
In season, deer stalking and rough shooting may be pursued in the vicinity, while for others, the town boasts an 18 hole golf course, tennis courts and green and carpet bowling.
The recently renovated Merrick Leisure Centre may be used by the public at weekends and during the holidays. (See the Activities page)
The Ideal Holiday Location
Easily accessible from the central belt of Scotland, from the north of England and from Northern Ireland - less than 3 hours drive from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Carlisle or Newcastle and a short hop on the ferry from Belfast. (See the Travel page for more information)
In spite of it's ease of access from these major population centres, Galloway remains largely unknown as a holiday destination and consequently does not suffer the overcrowding and high prices of the Highlands or the Lake District. The pace of life is slower, there are few traffic jams, and the people are welcoming and helpful.
Historic Interest
This picturesque and friendly market town was founded in the mid 17th Century by William Stewart, youngest son of the 2nd Earl of Galloway. The "New Town of Stewart" was granted Burgh status by charter from King Charles II, allowing a weekly market and two annual fairs to be held.
Sited on the banks of the River Cree, the town has prospered and may be regarded as a gateway for the Galloway Hills to the north and east, and to the historically important area known as the Machars to the south & west. Indeed it was on a pilgrimage to the shrine of St. Ninian at Whithorn, in 1329, that Robert the Bruce forded the river where the present handsome Cree Bridge stands.
The area is richly populated by castles, monuments, earthworks and archaeological sites of interest, which may be explored at leisure.
Accommodation. You will find an excellent range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Choose from one of the many fine Hotels in Newton Stewart itself, top quality Guest Houses, or perhaps the personal touch of the cosy Bed and Breakfasts in the area.
For those who prefer the freedom and informality of self-catering holidays, there are country cottages & farmhouses, chalets, caravans & camping and a Youth Hostel - all maintained to the highest standards.
The community-owned Cinema will crown the entertainment provided by hotels and public houses.
Further interest and enjoyment may be discovered in the local Museum housed in the old St. John's Church, and within an hour's drive you will find many fascinating and varied visitor attractions.(See the Attractions page)
A wide variety of shops and businesses provide the visitor and local people alike with a friendly, personal service and there is a good choice of restaurants in Newton Stewart.
However you choose to spend your time, and however long you stay for, have a good holiday and haste ye back!