Galloway Forest Park

The Largest Forest Park In The UK, About 780 Square Km Of Forest, Lochs And Hills. It Became The UK'S First International Dark Sky Park In 2009. The Merrick, 843 M, Is The Highest Hill In Southern Scotland; Bruce'S Stone Marks A Victory Of Robert The Bruce In 1307. · Newton Stewart, Scotland

Galloway Forest Park is the largest forest park in the UK, about 780 square km of conifer plantation, lochs and open granite hills in the far south-west of Scotland. It is quiet, big and remote. The Merrick, at 843 m, is the highest hill in southern Scotland, and Glen Trool holds Bruce's Stone, which marks a victory of Robert the Bruce in 1307. In 2009 the park became the UK's first International Dark Sky Park, because there are so few lights for miles, and on a clear night the Milky Way is plain to see. There are 7stanes mountain-bike trails at Glentrool, red deer and feral goats on the hills, and long single-track roads between the lochs. It suits walkers, cyclists and stargazers with a car and a free day or two. It does not suit people wanting cafes and sights close together. Midges bite from June to August, rain is common, and mobile signal is patchy, so plan ahead and confirm facilities before you drive in.

Large forest park in south-west Scotland around Glen Trool and Loch Trool, reached from Newton Stewart or Dalmellington, with Bruce's Stone, the Merrick hill and forest drives, Newton Stewart, Scotland, United Kingdom

The forest park is open all year and has no gate, so roads, walks and car parks can be reached day and night. The Glentrool visitor centre, cafe and the Clatteringshaws visitor and observatory facilities keep seasonal and often reduced winter hours, so confirm before a long drive. Dark sky viewing is best on clear nights from autumn to spring, when darkness comes early, and an observatory event may need booking. Forest roads can close for timber lorries or snow, and trails have no lighting. Bring a torch with a red setting for night viewing so you keep your eyes adapted.

Galloway Forest Park on Spottos · Explore more places on Spottos