South West Coastal 300: The Ultimate Guide
The South West Coastal 300 (SWC300) is a new and upcoming route for road trippers who wish to explore the southern part of Scotland. This post will describe the ultimate route including the best attractions on the South West Coastal 300.
The South West Coastal route is a 300 mile circular loop which you can start at any point. Also, the route is circular and surrounds Galloway Forest Park.
As well as passing through Dumfries, Stranraer and Ayr. You can complete the SWC300 by car, camper van or by bike.
A road trip around Scotland delivers the best scenery including rolling hills, enchanting coastlines and breath taking lochs. Also, this route is perfect for adventure seekers or history buffs and there are plenty of new things to see and do.
Thornhill
Striding Arches
The Striding Arches are large pieces of artwork by a local artist called Andy Goldsworthy. Similar arches have been constructed in New Zealand, Canada and the USA.
This is to represent the Scots who have emigrated to these parts of the world over the years. These iconic red sandstone arches can be found in an area of Dumfries called Cairnhead.
The arches can be reached from a small village called Moniaive. Overall, the area is a beautiful location and it is very remote and quiet.
Crawick Multiverse
Crawick Multiverse is a mesmerising art land, with a visitor centre and events venue. Charles Jencks is a globally transformed landscape artist who transformed the gardens back in 2015.
Also, the site shows relevance to space, astronomy and cosmology. Moreover, the site is popular with art enthusiasts, walkers and the wider community.
Mennock Pass
Mennock Pass is an unmissable drive or stopping place. People love this destination, and it is a perfect place to camp.
There is a small stream which has gold in the water. You might see a few people in the water with their tools looking for gold.
Wanlockhead
Wanlockhead is the highest village in Scotland and is located in the Lowther Hills. The village is 467 metres above sea level and is a former mining village near the head of Mennock Pass on the Southern Upland Way walking trail.
There is the Museum of Lead Mining which explains the role of the mining industry. Also, you can visit the local Miners’ Library which was found in the 18th century, which contains a great photo collection.
Mining was popular in this town in the 18th and 19th centuries and at Straitsteps Cottages you can experience what life was like for the miners. Also, trips are available on the Leadhills and Wanlockhead Light Railway.
The railway is Britain’s highest adhesion railway which reaches 1498 feet above sea level.
Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate
Drumlanrig Castle is a 17th century Renaissance building set in the 120, 000 acre Queensberry Estate. The castle has 120 rooms, 17 turrets and four towers.
Interestingly, the site was used for filming the TV show Outlander.
Exploring Drumlanrig Castle is perfect for those who like to deep dive into history or soak up the finest culture.
You can spend a day exploring one of the numerous short trails to more strenuous waymarked paths. The grounds are a perfect place for a short cycle or less strenuous walk.
Morton Castle
Morton Castle is a picturesque, ruined castle which overlooks Morton Loch. It is thought that the castle was built in the late 1200s or early 1300s.
This is a stunning place in a tranquil atmospheric place with plenty of trails to follow.
The castle is not easy to find and it is a secret hidden gem, which is a good thing. Therefore, it is worth discovering when you are in the Dumfries and Galloway region.
Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall and Loch Skeen
At the Moffat valley, you can find the 60-metre waterfall plunging deep into the valley below. You can follow the path alongside the waterfall which takes you to the top of a hill.
The trail is slightly challenging to begin with as there are steep stairs for the first few hundred metres. Loch Skeen is one of the nicest lochs in the lowlands of Scotland.
Once you are there you can enjoy views across Loch Skeen and the peaks of Lochcraig Head, Mid Craig and the summit of White Coomb.
Dumfries
Ae Forest
There is a variety of walking trails, mountain biking trails, a coffee shop and bike shop at the Forest of Ae. Ae is the shortest name for a forest in the United Kingdom.
Also, the forest is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for a nice place for a picnic or to watch the woodland wildlife. The area is managed by Forestry and Land Scotland and parking charges apply.
Robert Burns Ellisland Museum and Farm
Robert Burns Ellisland Museum and Farm is one of the lesser known of the three burns centres and museums, however, it certainly did not disappoint.
Ellisland Farm was the only home which was designed by Robert Burns. Also, it was to be the first home with his wife Jean Armour and it was a huge source for his inspiration.
Some of Burn’s most famous works were produced here including Auld Lang Syne.
The site has been left unchanged since the 18th century and represents how Burn’s would have lived his life with the outside toilet and the Carron Ironworks cooking range.
Ellisland is only six miles north of Dumfries on the A76. There is a large car park, and the site is dog friendly.
Caerlaverock Castle
Caerlaverock Castle is the only triangular castle in Britain. Also, there is a moat surrounding the triangular defence.
The ruins represent a hectic historic past including when 60 strong troops were defeated by Edward’s I English Army in a siege in the 1300s.
The castle is one of the most well-known castles in Dumfries and Galloway.
Also, inside the castle’s rugged exterior you can find a stunning Renaissance residence of the 1630s.
There is a gift shop and toilets on site. Also, you can walk around the grounds or woodland walks and take photographs.
Sweetheart Abbey
The stunning abbey has an amazing history with a graveyard that includes some beautiful headstones. It is well worth the walk around the old abbey.
Also, it is perfectly located in a picturesque landscape with rolling hills and forests.
The ruined red-sandstone abbey church was built over 700 years ago.
The abbey is located in an attractive setting between the grey bulk of Criffel Hill and the simmering waters of the Solway Firth. Lady Dervorgilla of Galloway founded the castle in memory of her husband Lord John Balliol.
There is a free car park alongside the abbey and you can walk around the site for free. Also, there are toilets in the car park.
Criffel Hill
Criffel Hill is the highest hill in the area and the views overlook the Firth of Aolway. The hill is just under 2,000 feet high and it takes a good three hours to complete.
Also, on a clear day, you will be rewarded with views across to the Lake District including Skiddaw and Blencathra.
Powillimount Beach
Powillimount Beach is located on the east of Southerness Beach near Kirkbean on the Solway Coast. This is one of the most stunning beaches on the south western Scotland.
The beach offers amazing views across the Solway Firth and out towards the Lake District. There is a car park right beside the beach which is easy to access and fits about 20 cars.
Also, on the rocky beach, you can look at a huge granite boulder.
Legend states that a devil took a bite out of Criffel and spat it out on the beach. Criffel is the large hill that overlooks Powillimount.
Southerness Beach and Lighthouse
Southerness Beaches offers spectacular views across the Firth of Solway across to the Lake District.
At low tide rock pools and mudflats are revealed. Also, you can admire the Southerness Lighthouse at the west end of the beach.
The lighthouse was built in 1749 and is the second oldest lighthouse in Scotland. You may notice that the shape and construction is different from most lighthouses making for some great photo opportunities.
There is parking up the road from the lighthouse, however, there is no parking directly next to it.
RSPB Mersehead
Mersehead is a large salt marsh and wetland area which is great all year round for bird watching and wildlife watching. Also, Mersehead is located on the north side of the Solway coast.
Depending on the season you will get the chance to see a wide variety of birds including lapwings, skylarks, Svalbard barnacle geese and pintails.
Sandyhills Bay, Dalbeatie
On the Dumfries and Galloway coastline you will find Sandyhills Bay which contains a large sandy beach.
As the name suggests, the beach has a vast area of sand which is backed by gentle sand dunes. Also, the beach is a popular destination for paddling and exploring rock pools.
Nearby, you can explore the amazing hidden gem known as Mares Braids Waterfall. Mares Braids features some amazing views and wildlife, making it a fantastic area to explore.
Castle Douglas
Threave Garden and Estate
Threave Castle is an 18th-century castle located in the Galloway Hills. Threave House was built for the Gordon family and many of the rooms are displayed in the same way as they were in the 1930s.
Threave Gardens is an inspiration for all gardeners. Here you can visit the beautiful garden rooms at the School of Heritage Gardening.
Also, Threave Garden is a perfect place during all the seasons and a haven for wildlife, with an osprey platform and bat reserve.
Also, you can book a guided walk to walk around Scotland’s only bat reserve. There are eight species of bats and there is a dedicated conservation programme to protect them.
Kirkcudbright Galleries
Kirkcudbright Galleries is located in the recently coveted 19th-century Town Hall. Here, you can learn about the story of Kirkcudbright’s ‘Art Colony’ and you can watch the audio-visual show called ‘The Artists Town’.
Broughton House & Gardens
Broughton House is an 18th century Georgian house which was the former home of an old Scottish painter E A Hornel, one of the Glasgow Boys.
The house is located in the centre of the pretty artist’s colony on the Solway Firth. Also, Broughton House contains Hornel’s pictures, a vast collection of artefacts and furniture.
Also, there is a stunning garden. The garden is greatly influenced by Hornel’s love for Japan.
The mic of European and Asian horticulture and sculpture is great to explore.
Carrick Beach
Carrick Beach is a popular viewpoint on the south coast of Scotland.
From here, you can view the quirky rock structures and miniature islands located in the water. The views are absolutely breathtaking.
Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve
This estuary is home to massive areas of salt marsh, and mudflats and it is the largest local nature reserve in Britain. This habitat is perfect for salt-tolerant plants and wintering wildfowl.
Beltie Books and Cafe
Beltie Books and Café is in Scotland’s National Book town of Wigtown. There is a wide selection of books and art.
Also, you can sit down and relax, while enjoying a cup of coffee, delicious cake, scone or bowl of soup or a snack.
Rigg Bay to Cruggleton Coastal Walk
Rigg Bay to Cruggleton coastal walk is a stunning seaside walk which begins at Rigg Bay and finishes at 12th century castle ruin – Cruggleton Castle.
An old arch is the remains of the castle, and it is an excellent viewpoint. There are amazing views across the Galloway Hills, and you may have the chance to look for the cormorants basking on the rocks below.
There is a parking area in Garlieston, with toilet facilities opposite. On route you can catch views of the Galloway House.
The house was used as a hospital for injured servicemen during the war but now it is a private home. Also, you will come across Mulberry Harbour which was set up during World War II and used to practise landings.
Whithorn Abbey & Priory
There is lots of history at the site and there are displays of stone carvings. Whithorn Abbey is one of Scotland’s earliest Christian sites.
Travellers, traders, pilgrims and royalty have been brought to the site for more than 1, 000 years. The tour of the roundhouse is a must.
St Ninian’s Cave
St Ninian’s Cave is a sea-side cave which is said to be the hideaway of an early Christian saint. The cave is located only four miles away from Whithorn Abbey.
It is an excellent walk with beautiful views of the coast. From the car park, the walk is about a mile long along a little forest path.
There are many caves in Scotland and St Ninian’s Cave has an interesting history. The cave became a place of pilgrimage in the early Middle Ages.
During an excavation of the site, many Christian symbols including carved headstones and crosses from the 10th and 11th centuries were found beneath the collapsed roof.
These can be found at the Priory Museum at Whithorn. Also, there are more symbols carved into the rock on the outside of the cave.
Glenwhan Gardens, Arboretum and Tearoom
Glenwhan Gardens is extremely unique as rare trees and shrubs along with a selection of plants that grow in the southern hemisphere are located here. This is due to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream.
The gardens are so peaceful, so take your time to soak all in all of the beauty around you. Also, the gardens have a very interesting layout with lots of colour.
You can also enjoy a cuppa in the tearoom. Alternatively, Logan Botanic Garden is just down the road.
Sandhead Beach (Luce Sands)
Sandhead Beach is a beautiful sandy beach which stretches for more than a mile and is located near Stranraer.
There is ample car parking, and plenty of picnic benches so it is an ideal place to spend a few hours here.
Logan Botanic Gardens
Logan Botanic Gardens are arguably the country’s most exotic garden. It is an extraordinary space with a wide range of unusual and beautiful plants.
You can view eucalyptus, palm trees or rhubarb-like gunnera.
Also, you can visit the Logan’s Discovery Centre to find out about the garden’s intriguing history, from the foundation to its current range of plant collections.
In addition, there is an award-winning ‘Potting Shed Bistro’ and a garden shop which offers a range of gifts, souvenirs and plants for sale.
Mull of Galloway
At the Mull of Galloway, you can climb the lighthouse, visit the Exhibition of Lighthouse History and experience the Vintage Engines and Foghorn.
Also, you can walk around RSPB Scotland Nature Reserve and enjoy delicious food and drink at Scotland’s most southerly café.
The Mull of Galloway Lighthouse has 115 steps. From the top, on a clear day, you will be rewarded with views of Scotland, Ireland, the Isle of Man and Cumbria. Also, you can witness porpoises, dolphins and gannets diving.
The foghorn was last used in November 1987 and has been returned to working order.
Now, it is the only working foghorn on mainland Scotland. Also, you can grab a coffee from Gallie Craig Coffee House.
The Mull of Galloway Trail begins in Stranraer, follows through Sandhead Beach and continues on along the coastline of the Southern Rhins of Galloway to end at the Mull of Galloway.
This trail is one of the most scenic routes in Scotland.
Portpatrick Cliff Path Walks
There are excellent walking paths along the north and south of Portpatrick. Portpatrick is a charming town located on the coast of Dumfries and Galloway.
Also, the paths offer a range of options for stunning walks which feature incredible scenery.
Killantringan Lighthouse
Killantringan Lighthouse is a beautiful space not far from Portpatrick. The lighthouse was built in 1900, shipwrecks can be seen in the bay below.
You can follow a coastal walking path from Portpatrick or park near the lighthouse.
Castle of St John
One of the most powerful Lairds of Wigtownshire, Adair of Kilhurst built this mediaeval tower house in the 13th century.
This is a fantastic place to get to know some cultures. Also, there are excellent reconstructions displaying how mediaeval landowners built and lived in the castle.
Moreover, you will have the opportunity to learn about Government troops who used the castle as their headquarters during Killing Times in the 1680s.
In addition, you can learn about the criminals and debtors who were imprisoned in the castle in the 19th century.
Castle Kennedy
At Castle Kennedy Estate you can wander through the 75 acres of the finest gardens in Scotland. The gardens contain beautiful fauna, amazing scenery and magnificent walks which are perfect for relaxing or exploring.
Moreover, the gardens at Castle Kennedy date back to the 1730s and contain many colourful displays including the old Monkey Puzzle Tree Avenue which is a 150-year-old avenue containing one species of tree.
In addition, there is a Tea Room, Gift Shop and Plant Centre to visit. The gardens are open daily from 31 March to 31 October.
Ayr
Kennedy Pass
The Kennedy Pass is part of A77 coastal road, and it is one of the best coastal roads in Scotland. This road has stunning scenery and it is one of my favourite roads to drive.
It was originally built by the Kennedy family of Culzean Castle. When you approach Girvan, keep an eye out for Ailsa Craig, a small island in the Firth of Clyde.
Snibs Cave (Bennan Cave)
Snibs Cave is just off the A77 coastal road. The road itself to the cave has been abandoned for decades, making the visit mysterious and perfect for those who love apocalypse movies.
A cairn stands close to the cave as a memorial for Henry Ewing Torbet. Henry Ewing Torbet, who was also known as Snib Scott, lived as a hermit in Bennane Cave.
It is believed that he spent the last three decades of his life in the cave. Torbet was born in Dundee in 1912 and he died in 1983 of hypothermia and pneumonia.
Culzean Castle and Country Park
Culzean Castle is one of the most amazing castles in Scotland. The castle is located on a dramatic clifftop of Ayrshire cliffs, with fascinating history and beautiful local surroundings.
Once upon a time, David Kennedy, 10th Earl of Cassillis owned the 260-hectare estate. The park has many conifers and beech trees.
Also, the coastline is dotted with caves. In addition, you can view the swan pond or the flamboyant formal gardens. Entry prices for adults are £18.50
The Coo Shed
The Coo Shed is a unique family-run café with all food prepared and baked in-house.
Also, the food is locally sourced where possible. In addition, they serve delicious mouth-watering cakes.
Also, you can try the tasty fresh farm milk made by the Corton Coos. There is a new vending machine to check out at the Milk Hoose.
The Milk Hoose is one of the furthest north stops and is located just outside the town of Ayr.
Dumfries House
Dumfries House was reopened in 2008 after a long restoration which was led by His Royal Highness Prince of Wales.
Inside, there is a magnificent collection of some 50 pieces of Chippendale’s work, preserved examples of Britain’s finest ever craftsmanship which have been saved for the nation and for visitors who come to Scotland for centuries to come.
The house was built in the 1750s for William Crichton Dalrymple, the 5th Earl of Dumfries. In a quiet corner of the estate, you can find a stunning walled garden which is full of terraces and greenhouses.
Also, the estate’s Woodlands Restaurant includes vegetables which have been harvested onsite.
Dumfries House is a northern point on the South West Coastal 300. The house is located near Auchinleck.
Dalcairney Falls
The walk is roughly a 45-minute walk from Doon Bridge. There is a steep incline in the last 10 minutes or so.
The descent down to the waterfall is also very steep but it is worth the trek as the falls are beautiful. Parking is available at Cathcartson where signs for the trail that lead to the waterfall are located.
Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is located on a fantastic hilltop site on the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Border.
A Dark Sky site is a perfect place for looking at the stars on a clear night as there is limited light pollution. The site has a massive telescope and helpful staff which makes it an interesting night out.
Loch Doon Castle
Loch Doon Castle was built in the late 1200s by an earl of Carrick. The castle originally stood on an island in Loch Doon.
In 1935, the entire castle was taken down and re-erected on its present spot. This was due to the rising water levels due to the local hydroelectric scheme which was affecting the castle’s curtain wall.
The castle is small, but it is located in a very peaceful setting. Also, the area is a lovely area for a walk.
There is a car park at the castle. Moreover, it is an excellent base for a walk around Loch Doon.
Galloway Forest Park
Galloway Forest Park is a central component of the South West Coastal 300. It is the main focal point of Dumfries and Galloway, and the park can be accessed by many routes.
Galloway Forest Park is home to Scotland’s first Dark Sky Park and it is one of the best places to stargaze in Europe. However, you can visit Galloway Forest Park at any time of the year or any time of the day.
There are two scenic drives to choose from, where you can see red deer and wild goats. Moreover, you can follow the footsteps of Robert the Bruce or relax with friends near a scenic loch.
Is the SWC300 suitable for motorhomes?
Yes, the South West Coastal Route can be completed in a motorhome or camper van. There are plenty of campsites and places to stop to relax.
Driving a motorhome gives you the freedom to make your trip as short or as long as you wish. Also, you can complete the route by car or bike.
What is the SWC300?
The South West Coastal is a new circular 300-mile driving route which showcases the best places in the southwest of Scotland.
The route takes you to the most southerly part of Scotland and covers Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway.
Is South West Scotland worth visiting?
There is so much to see and do in the southwest of Scotland. You can explore charming historical castles, admire the rolling landscapes or relax at the enchanting coastlines. Also, this area is not as popular with tourists therefore, it is an ideal trip.
Final Note
This is a guide for everyone who is wanting to explore the southwest of Scotland. The guide has the best attractions in the area, with the route going clockwise around the Galloway Forest Park.
There is so much to see so it would be exciting if anyone wanted to share extra stops from their itinerary. The South West Coastal 300 takes you to some of the best towns and villages in Dumfries and Galloway.
Other road trips in Scotland, showcase the well-known landmarks and famous sights from different areas. These routes are called Heart 200, North East 250 and the famous North Coast 500.