Dominated by the ancient Cardoness Castle on the west and scenic farmlands on the east, Gatehouse of Fleet contains Neolithic and Bronze Age cairns and carvings dating it back to prehistoric times. The town itself is relatively young in comparison to these antiquities, having been established in the mid-1700’s. Once known as the "Glasgow of the South" there are still traces of the industrial past here in the street names and the old buildings. The Mill on the Fleet was one of the factories that spurred industrial growth in the town with its water wheel using the waters that flow through the eastern lade. The quay in the harbour is still used by pleasure crafts, but the once large harbour used to receive up to 150 ships a year.
The permanent exhibit at the Mill on the Fleet contains evidence of the industrial efforts of the town and also has a café, gift shop and the largest bookstore outside of Wigtown. Art lovers will delight in the exhibits at Kirkcudbright, also home to a museum and a Wildlife Park, where you will see pygmy goats, llamas, racoons, wallabies and many other animals not usually seen in Scotland. Castles abound in Gatehouse of Fleet. Spend a day or two exploring Cardoness Castle, Carsluith Castle and McLellan Castle. Rusco Castle is a private home, but you can make an appointment for a guided tour. Take a boat ride to Threave Castle, located on an island in the River Dee. Visit the Cairn Holy, with its Neolithic burial chambers. In the hills above, stone circles and carved rocks are visible. There are about 12 iron forts surrounding the town, one of which is Trusty’s Hill. The stone gatehouse at this fort is adorned with Pictish symbols.
Cally Gardens, located within an 18th century wall, is a treasure trove of unusual varieties of plants and is just one of the many exquisite gardens in the area. Avid golfers will surely be thrilled with the greens at the Gatehouse Golf Club. This 9-hole course is listed as one of the most extraordinary golf courses in the United Kingdom. The selection of lodgings is staggering from historic home settings to cottages for two. The Cally Palace is a four star hotel with all kinds of amenities, but if you like being close to nature there are four camping and caravan parks available with full service hook ups. All the hotels in town have restaurants and there are many coffee shops and pubs where you can drop in for a refreshing drink and a light snack. Young and old alike will find a visit to Gatehouse of Fleet one they will remember for a long time to come.
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