Clatteringshaws

Watch for wildlife or gaze at the stars

Look out over tranquil Clatteringshaws Loch, a haven for waterbirds in summer, and beyond to the rolling Galloway Hills. There are several pull-ins beside the road where you can park and enjoy the view.

On a clear day, look out for the mighty Merrick, highest hill in the Southern Uplands. Soak up the stunning views or meander beside the loch to the historic Bruce's Stone, one of two stones dedicated to the Scottish king in the Forest Park.

This is also one of the best places to enjoy the night sky – overlooking the darkest part of the Forest Park, which ensures a particularly dramatic stellar show. 

Activities

Dark Sky Park

Scotland has some of the darkest skies in Europe, and Galloway Forest Park is one of the darkest places in Scotland – which is why it’s the UK’s first Dark Sky Park. Clatteringshaws is a brilliant place to enjoy the night sky.

Red Kite Trail

The Galloway Kite Trail is an exciting way to view spectacular red kites in lovely scenery. During the summer, the route includes Clatteringshaws and Raiders’ Road Forest Drive. Join the trail at Clatteringshaws and look out for these magnificent birds soaring overhead on a scenic route around Loch Ken. There are viewing points, walking trails, viewing hides and a feeding station along the way.

Long distance cycle route

National Cycle Route 7 (Glasgow to Carlisle via Dumfries and Glen Trool) also winds through the Forest Park, linking Clatteringshaws with the two visitor centres here. You might not want to tackle the whole 200 miles, but get a taste of the experience on scenic stretches of the route.

Facilities and access

Car parking information

Park in one of several pull-ins beside the road overlooking Clatteringshaws Loch.

Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.

Getting here

Clatteringshaws is on the Queen's Way (A712) between New Galloway and Newton Stewart, on the shore of Clatteringshaws Loch.

Using SatNav?

DG7 3SQ is the nearest postcode.

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