Travel: How to spend 48 hours in Stranraer

Stay

The former ferry port has become a favourite destination of visitors to south-west Scotland thanks to its beautiful position on the coast.

There is an eclectic mix of quality accommodation in and around the town, including luxury B&Bs, self-catering properties, campsites and caravans and more.

For top-notch accommodation, check out Knockinaam Lodge, used by Winston Churchill and Dwight D Eisenhower as a secret meeting place during the Second World War, or book a stay at nearby Corsewall Lighthouse Hotel.

Eat

The town and surrounding area is home to a number of award-winning bars, restaurants, cafés and food outlets that specialise in high-quality, locally-caught seafood, along with farm produce.

Stranraer Oyster Festival, now in its third year, takes place from September 13 to 15 and offers a programme packed with fun, festivities and flavour.

Look out for top chefs, inspiring speakers, amazing entertainers and some of the world’s leading oyster experts in this seafood celebration on the shores of Loch Ryan.

Drink

Why not try some tasty craft beers from Portpatrick Brewery? Alternatively, enjoy a refreshing Hills & Harbour gin from Crafty Distillery, based along the A75 in Newton Stewart.

See

Learn about life in times gone by at the medieval Castle of St John, a tower house at the heart of Stranraer’s town centre, before taking a stroll along the pretty promenade, enjoying stunning views over the water.

Further afield, take a road trip along the South West Coastal 300, visiting the harbour village of Portpatrick and the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse at Scotland’s southernmost point.

Nearby, the magnificent Logan Botanic Garden features a walled garden where you’ll find exotic plants and a fish pond adorned with water lilies.

Similarly, Castle Kennedy Gardens are well worth a visit to see the beautiful plants and landscaped grounds.