Newton Stewart Riverside
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 1.5 kms | 00:45 (hrs:mins) | 0 metres | Explorer 319: Galloway Forest Park South |
Description
From the riverside car park cross the footbridge over the River Cree, turning right at the end. Known as the Sparling Bridge, this was part of a series of improvements to the riverside walk completed in 1998. It is named after the sparling, a rare fish breeding only in the River Cree and two other sites in Scotland. Continue along the riverside path to a carved granite waymarker. Granite boulders inscribed with poems and great chunks of beech carved into sturdy benches provide added interest throughout the walk. Cross two fields, passing a small patch of riverside woodland. This provides a haven for wildlife with blue tit and chaffinch being common sights. At the end of the field, cross a stile then follow the track up to the road. Turn right, cross the A75 bridge, then turn right again at the signpost and rejoin the path. The path returns to the car park along the riverside. Depending on the time of year, you may see mute swans, mallard or goosander. Upstream from the car park is the Bridge of Cree, built in 1813 of local granite from the Minnigaff Hills. The original wooden bridge, built in 1745, was washed away. Before this, the river had to be forded or crossed by ferry further downstream. Having the bridge made Newton Stewart the busy place it is today, bringing traffic, people and trade in the town.
Access Info
Leave the A75 as signposted for Newton Stewart, in the centre of town turn into the riverside car park.
Additional Info
Check out the Walking in and around Newton Stewart and Creetown booklet for more information, available from any Tourist Information Centre in Dumfries and Galloway.
