Thursday, 31 Oct 2024
Did you know that Scotland is home to ten of the 17 bat species living and breeding in the UK? …
Discover more about Alexander Murray, one of this area's most famous sons, by climbing to his monument at Talnotry.
Take the Talnotry Trail to reach the monument and find atmospheric sculptures amongst the drystane sheep pens, or simply stroll along to a viewpoint overlooking the impressive Grey Mare's Tail waterfall.
A beautiful exploration of Grey Mare’s Tail Burn and the striking Murray’s Monument on Big Doon. There is a wonderful view from the top.
Narrow and uneven grassy paths with rough, muddy and rocky sections. Includes some long steep slopes.
Allow 1 hour
The trail also takes in the lovely Grey Mare's Tail waterfall and the atmospheric artwork, The Quorum, by Matt Baker – can you spot the silent stone faces staring out from the old sheep pens? You can start this trail from either the Grey Mare's Tail car park or the Talnotry car park.
Galloway Forest Park is one of the best places in the world to enjoy the stars – which is why it has been designated a Dark Sky Park. On a clear night the stars are so bright that you don't need a telescope or even binoculars to enjoy them. There are information panels about stargazing at Talnotry car park.
You'll find parking, toilets (including accessible facilities), a café and a shop at Kirroughtree Forest Café.
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Talnotry is on the north side of the A712 (also known as The Queen's Way) between Newton Stewart and New Galloway. Park at the Grey Mare's Tail car park for the Talnotry Trail and waterfall. Alternatively, you can join the Talnotry Trail from the Talnotry car park a few hundred metres west.
DG8 7BL is the nearest postcode.
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Have a close encounter with Galloway's wild goats
Historic viewpoint at the head of a long tree-clad gully
View the stars at the heart of Galloway Dark Sky Park.