Things to do in Gatehouse of Fleet

Gatehouse of Fleet is a pretty village set by the Water of Fleet, about ten miles west of Kirkcudbright. Back in the late 1700s and early 1800s, it was a busy little industrial hub, home to cotton mills, shipbuilding, a brewery and even its own port. Locals used to call it the ‘Glasgow of the South’.

Today, Gatehouse is known for its warm community, beautiful surroundings and wealth of things to see and do. As a recognised UNESCO Biosphere Community, locals and businesses have proudly committed to celebrating and protecting the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

From peaceful walks and historic sites to family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, there’s something here for everyone. Below is an array of activities and attractions to enjoy in Gatehouse of Fleet.

Explore Gatehouse of Fleet Walks

Gatehouse is a brilliant place for a walk, whether you fancy a short stroll through the woods, a wander along the river, or a proper hike with cracking views. It’s got a bit of everything: peaceful trails, loads of wildlife, and plenty of local history along the way. You’ll find some of my favourite local walks listed below:

Cally Woods and Gardens

The Cally Woods and Gardens offer a peaceful and scenic place to walk, with a mix of woodland, open spaces, and historic features.The paths are well looked after and take you through lovely woodland, past the old walled garden, and around the little lake with its stone bridges and plenty of wildlife. It’s great for all ages and abilities, whether you’re out for a gentle stroll or just want a bit of quiet time in nature.

Roon the Watter – Castramon Wood Nature Reserve

This 6-mile walk or cycle takes you up one side of the Fleet valley and back down the other. The full name of the river is the Water of Fleet, which is where the walk gets its name. It’s also the route of a popular fun run held every year during Gatehouse Gala Week.

Gatehouse of Fleet to Sandgreen Beach

This 8-mile circular walk takes you through woodland, countryside, and along the coast. Stop off at Sandgreen Beach for a well-earned rest halfway through. A lovely way to spend the day.

Trusty’s Hill and Rutherford’s Monument Walk

This 3½-mile circular walk takes you through woodland and farmland on the western edge of Gatehouse of Fleet. It climbs through a rugged area of little hills and is full of interest, with Pictish stone carvings, superb views, an impressive monument, and the romantic ruins of an old church. Walking boots are advised.

Historical and Cultural Attractions in Gatehouse of Fleet

Gatehouse of Fleet has a rich and fascinating history for a town of its size, with stories stretching from ancient times to its days as a thriving centre of industry. Whether you’re interested in Pictish stones, Georgian architecture, or the town’s connections to poets and writers, there’s plenty to explore. Below you’ll find some of the historical and cultural highlights that make Gatehouse such an interesting place to visit.

Rutherford’s Monument

For a walk with history and great views, head up to Rutherford’s Monument, which overlooks Gatehouse of Fleet. It was built in memory of Rev Samuel Rutherford, who served as minister in Anwoth from 1627 to 1639 before becoming Professor of Divinity at the University of St Andrews. A major figure in 17th-century Scotland, Rutherford’s influence is still recognised today. The monument was funded by public subscription and completed in 1842.

While you’re in the area, it’s well worth visiting the ruins of Old Anwoth Church nearby. The atmospheric graveyard, complete with Covenanter graves, adds to the sense of history that runs through the whole site.

Big Water of Fleet Viaduct/Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve

Big Water of Fleet Viaduct is a striking 20-arch granite viaduct once carried the Portpatrick Railway and still makes an impressive sight today. It’s a peaceful spot with a real sense of history, just a short trip from Gatehouse. Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve is one of the wildest but most accessible spots in the area, Cairnsmore is perfect for walkers and wildlife lovers. Enjoy sweeping views, look out for birds of prey, or take a gentle stroll around the farm and pond near the visitor centre.

Cairn Holy Chambered Cairn

Just up the hill from the Isles of Fleet Retreat, these two Neolithic burial cairns are full of atmosphere and mystery. Cairn Holy I is especially striking, with its tall standing stones and views over Wigtown Bay. Built over 5,000 years ago, the cairns are open to the sky today and well worth a visit – especially if you’re drawn to ancient history and dramatic landscapes. One is even said to be the resting place of the mythical Scottish King Galdus.

Discover Bike Hire and Guided Tours

If you don’t have a bike or fancy exploring with a bit of local insight, it’s worth visiting the team at Wheels of Fleet. They offer bike hire and can point you towards some great local routes.

For something more adventurous, try riding the route of The Gralloch – a one-day gravel race that’s part of the TREK UCI Gravel World Series. The course is tough and varied, almost entirely off-road, and takes in some of the best gravel trails through Galloway Forest Park.

Golf Courses in and around Gatehouse

Gatehouse is home to two scenic golf courses. The Gatehouse of Fleet Golf Club offers a charming 9-hole course right in the heart of town, with lovely views over the countryside and Galloway Hills. Just outside the town, the Cally Palace Golf Course is a more challenging 18-hole course set in the grounds of the Cally Estate, with a mix of parkland and woodland to test your game.

Local Beaches to explore

Gatehouse of Fleet is lucky to have several beautiful sandy beaches just a short drive away – Sandgreen, Carrick, and Mossyard are all well worth a visit. Mossyard in particular has a mix of sandy coves, rock pools, and even a millennium labyrinth. It’s also home to 1 Little Farm Shop, where you’ll find their own produce alongside locally made treats, home baking, and great coffee. Even better, it’s less than a mile from the Isles of Fleet Retreat!

Places to Eat & Drink

Gatehouse of Fleet is full of lovely spots to eat, drink and unwind – whether you’re after a great coffee, a slice of cake or a cosy pub lunch. There are plenty of cute cafés and coffee shops to explore, and if you’re looking for somewhere to settle in for dinner, check out our other blog post with some of our favourite restaurants in Gatehouse.

The Iron Brew

“The Laundry Cafe” – is an informal and friendly spot to meet, eat and even get your dry cleaning done! With it’s free Wi-fi / Dog friendly ethos it’s a great place to stop off after a walk or exploring the sights of the town.  All day breakfasts, lunch, delicious coffee and takeaway’s served 7 days a week.

Galloway Lodge Coffee Shop

Located in the centre of the High Street, beside the main car park Galloway Lodge is a great place to visit. Whether you are looking for a heart warming bowl of soup, sandwiches, melts, burgers or simply to  have a delicious Matthew Algie triple certified Tiki coffee and home baking – it’s well worth a visit. You can even pick up some of Galloway Lodge’s award wining Preserves to sample back at Isles of Fleet Retreat. 

The Cafe at The Mill of the Fleet

The Mill on the Fleet was built in 1788 as a cotton spinning mill and restored as a visitor and exhibition centre by Dumfries and Galloway Council in the 1980s. It is also houses the Gatehouse Tourist Information Centre. As well as it’s exhibition floor, exibiting displays focusing on the history and heritage of Gatehouse, and exploring the Fleet Valley and surrounding areas, it also has a selection of Regional Arts and Craft, a Bookshop and a Cafe. Located in a particularly beautiful spot on the banks of the River Fleet, you can enjoy delicious home baking, soups and hot drinks soaking in the wildlife from the open air terrace.