Monday, 27 June 2022
Rachel Orchard is one of our Trees and Timber Apprentices working from our base in Durris, Aberdeenshire. As a newcomer to the forestry sector she has hit the ground running by win...
All deer tours are cancelled until further notice. The viewing hide is closed, though the deer can still be observed from the outdoor viewing area.
The Red Deer Range was established in 1977 to give our visitors the chance to see these beautiful creatures up close in a natural environment. Around 25 red deer live here today – watch for them from the viewing area and hide. Whatever the weather, you can enjoy spotting deer and other wildlife from the shelter of the hide.
Wander through the deciduous woods along the Bush Burn to a 12th century stronghold at Cally Motte.
Firm gravel surface throughout with some slightly uneven sections. Includes some short steep slopes and two bridges 0.9m wide.
Allow ½ hours
Back in the 1100s, there was an Angle-Norman stronghold on the Motte. There are several mounds like this across Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders: they would have had a fortified tower on top, probably with enough space inside to shelter local villagers in times of trouble.
An enjoyable exploration of the Bush Burn and the varied woodland of the Cally Estate. Ash, oak, beech and sycamore all shelter a carpet of wonderful wild flowers.
Firm gravel surface throughout. Occasional section may be uneven or muddy. Includes several short steep slopes and two bridges.
Allow ¾ hours
The Bush Burn once drove a water-powered sawmill in the village in the 19th century.
You can watch the deer from the viewing area and hide at Red Deer Range every day, all year round. Entry is free!
As you savour this wild place and watch for red deer, you're likely to spot other amazing wildlife too. Keep an eye on the skies for buzzards and other birds of prey who haunt these hills. The hide is also a great place to see a variety of moorland and woodland birds that gather at the feeding station at the hide.
If seeing red deer up close isn't exciting enough already, this is also a fantastic place to stargaze. Because it's so dark, the 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. You can find out more online at Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park.
All tours are cancelled until further notice due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
You'll find public toilets (including accessible facilities), a café and a shop at Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre or Kirroughtree Visitor Centre at each end of the Queen's Way.
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.
Red Deer Range is on the north side of A712 (also known as The Queen's Way) between Newton Stewart and New Galloway.
The larger, lower car park is a short but steep walk from the viewing area and hide. The entrance to the upper car park is 250 yards west of the lower car park - This one provides direct access to the viewing area and hide.
DG8 7BL is the nearest postcode.
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
View the starts at the heart of Galloway Dark Sky Park.
Have a close encounter with Galloway's wild goats
The best of Galloway Forest Park from the comfort of your car