THE PORT ROAD

This is an all-inclusive walk that will suit families and wheelchair users as access points are straightforward and the surfaces are relatively smooth. It is probably worth wearing good walking shoes.

Transport will take the group to the start of the walk a little north of Creetown and follow what were both the Old Military Road and more recently the railway that ended in Portpatrick.

The link between Stranraer and Portpatrick was closed to passenger traffic in 1950, but it was Dr Beeching’s axe that closed the Dumfries line in 1965, the last train left Newton Stewart on the evening of 12th June.

Height is quickly gained and the views over the estuary to the County town of Wigtown and the Machars beyond prove that you do not have to venture far to appreciate the Galloway countryside.

The route goes northerly passing Spittal, Blairs and Cuil Woods and seating has been strategically placed to allow an opportunity to have a rest and soak up the views. The walk which also is used as part of the national cycle joins a road at the entrance to Cairnsmore Estate and continues back to the visitor centre at Kirroughtree where a welcome cuppa can be obtained prior to being transported the back to Newton Stewart.