Newton Stewart

Newton Stewart is known as the ” Gateway to the Galloway Hills”  The  town is a great base for walkers and mountain bikers to explore the nearby Galloway Forest; the UK’s first Dark Sky Park and one of the world’s best spots for star-gazing.

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 the gateway to the Galloway Hills and the important historical region of the Machars. 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 bridge stands.  Built in 1813 it replaced the old bridge of 1745 which was destroyed by floods in 1806.

Newton Stewart is the geographical centre of an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. Hillwalking here is superb. Large unspoiled areas of great natural beauty and tranquility are dominated by the Merrick at 830m and the slightly lower eminence of 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.

Robert Burns’ “Flow’ry Banks o’ Cree” give 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 Pool may be used by the public at weekends and during the holidays. The newly furbished 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, a dolls house exhibition and in a nearby butterfly and tropical plant house. A wide variety of shops provide the visitor and local people alike with a friendly, personal service and there is a good choice of venues for wining and dining.