New Galloway

About New Galloway

The smallest royal burgh in Scotland, New Galloway was originally named ‘Newton of Galloway’ by its founder John Gordon in 1633. John was once the viscount at Kenmure Castle, the ruins of which still stand to the south of the village despite having burned down three times. The burgh became a popular stopover for pilgrims heading to St Ninian’s Shrine at Whithorn, and also became central to the cattle trade, having its own cattle market and hosting the earliest agricultural shows of the Glenkens.

Traces of its rich history can still be seen around the village and include the 1820s Ken Bridge, built by the great John Rennie who’s other works include the second London Bridge; Kells Parish Church which features some of the area’s best examples of gravestone carvings; the Aunchencloy Monument erected at the spot where four Covenanters were killed by government troops in 1684 and the striking 140-year-old Town Hall which stands as a reminder of the village’s civic heyday.

Nowadays New Galloway is a bustling wee village with a beautiful High Street and a thriving community spirit. Despite its small size, it has the CatStrand, a vibrant Arts Centre, the historic Town Hall, a delightful community-owned village shop, a post office and some great cafes. It’s a fantastic place to break your tour around the beautiful Glenkens in, and is the gateway to the Queen’s Way and the Galloway Forest Park.