Gardens and Local Shows
This relatively small area of 'undiscovered Scotland' is surrounded by sea on three sides. The Gulf Stream flows close by, creating a 'mini climate' in which many exotic and unusual plants and flowers are able to flourish. Within easy travelling distance from the cottages are a number of beautiful gardens in which to spend half or full days during your stay with us.
Logan Botanic Gardens are situated at the south western tip of Scotland and are undoubtedly Scotland's most exotic garden. An usual assortment of plants which cannot be found elsewhere are grown here. The gardens also offer an award-winning salad bar, a botanics gift shop selling local crafts, guided tours taking in the woodland and walled gardens and also a discovery centre.
Created from waste land, Glenwhan Gardens has 12 acres of gardens located on a hillside overlooking Luce Bay. Quiet paths meander through the beds where seating can be found in many secluded corners allowing you to sit and enjoy the views whilst taking in the sweet aroma of the flowers. A 17 acre 'wilderness walk', coffee shop and plant centre make for a thoroughly enjoyable and interesting day.
Ardwell House Gardens:
Ardwell House Gardens are located alongside Luce Bay. There are pond walks, plants for sale, picnic areas and seasonal fruit is available for picking.
The gardens form part of Stair Estates which along with Lochinsch Castle are home to the Earl and Countess of Stair. The history of Castle Kennedy travels as far back as the 14th Century; over the years many new plants were brought to Britain from around the world with many being sent to Castle Kennedy Gardens. There is a plant centre and refreshments are available which are provided on a daily basis from the castle kitchens.
Whilst the native woodland gardens are set around a loch, the walled gardens with their restored greenhouses produce many exotic plants, shrubs and fruits. Located by the Irish Sea, the gardens offer views across to Ireland and the Mountains of Mourne. The Seasons tea room has specially commissioned murals depicting the four seasons of the year. Ranger-led walks through the woods and down to the sea are available together with garden tours with one of the gardeners taking place each Wednesday.
Stranraer Show:
The Stranraer Show takes place each summer within the grounds of Stranraer's Rugby Club located on the town's London Road. Attractions include refreshment and craft marquees, children's rides, sheep shearing competitions, sheep and cattle classes and horse classes.
International Carriage Driving Championships
The Championships are held annually just outside the village of Castle Kennedy. Unlike the Stranraer Show the Championships are a three day event incoporating various classes of carriage driving, showjumping and horse showing classes, dog agility, birds of prey and classic cars. Clothing and craft stalls are set around the showing area together with children's rides, agricultural vehicle sales and food retailers. A thoroughly enjoyable day out for all the family.