Garlieston to Cruggleton Castle
Date: 01 October 2025
Leader: Idris
Grade: C+
Number on walk: 17
Length 10.2 km. Ascent 120 m.
Hills climbed: None.
Click here for GPX track of the walk
We set off along the coast in drizzly rain for Cruggleton Castle
A well-placed swing provided entertainment
Our morning tea break was on the shore of Rigg or Cruggleton Bay
(This bay was used to test three different designs of Mulberry Harbour. Mulberries were temporary, artificial ports which allowed the Allies to retake mainland Europe during the 2nd World War. They were manufactured in Britain and towed across the English Channel before being assembled by the Royal Engineers to allow heavy machinery to be unloaded from ships)
Approaching Cruggleton Castle
Cruggleton Castle
(Cruggleton Castle, dating from the Iron Age to the 17th century, served as a stronghold for the Lords of Galloway and Earls of Buchan, enduring sieges and ecclesiastical rule before falling into ruin. Today, only a large arch from the barrel-vaulted ceiling remains visible).
The view looking south from Cruggleton Castle
Our group trying to shelter from the wind and rain
Our return route took us past Galloway House
(Galloway House, built in 1740 for Lord Garlies has been expanded over time and served as both a wartime hospital and boarding school. Its acclaimed gardens are now managed by the Galloway House Gardens Trust and remain open to the public.)