Stranraer Walks - Loch Ryan Coastal Path
This walk follows the Loch Ryan Coastal Path in Stranraer in Dumfries and Galloway.
The waymarked route runs for about 12 miles along the eastern side of the loch.
At the northern end the route links with the Ayrshire Coastal Path at the Water of App near Glenapp Castle.
Along the way there are handy information boards detailing the history of the area. You can also enjoy some fine views across the water to the surrounding hills, countryside and forestry. The trail is part of the longer Mull Of Galloway Trail which starts from the southernmost point of Scotland and heads north to the loch.
Loch Ryan Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Loch Ryan Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Loch Ryan OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Loch Ryan Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
To continue your walking in the area head east to visit Galloway Forest Park where there are miles of walking paths and some popular mountain bike trails to try.
Head west to Portpatrick and you could visit the Dunskey Glen where there's an historic estate with woodland, wildlife, beautiful gardens, lakes and a picturesque waterfall. The cliff top ruins of Dunskey Castle can also be visited in this area.
In nearby Glenluce you can pick up the Portpatrick Railway Walk along a section of the old Portpatrick and Wigtownshire Railway. The railway has an interesting history and there's also a visit to the impressive Luce Viaduct on the walk.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Loch Ryan is a sea loch located in the southwest of Scotland, known for its strategic significance as a natural harbour. It serves as a key point for ferry services between Scotland and Northern Ireland due to its calm and sheltered waters. Historically, the loch has played a vital role in both civilian and military maritime activities, offering a safe harbour in what can otherwise be a treacherous area for sea travel. The largest settlement along Loch Ryan is the town of Stranraer, which traditionally operated as a major ferry port. However, in more recent times, ferry operations have shifted to Cairnryan, a smaller village located further north on the loch.
Loch Ryan Coastal Path at Cairnryan. Cairnryan now hosts two ferry terminals that provide regular services to Northern Ireland, linking Scotland with the ports of Belfast and Larne. These ferry routes are crucial for both passenger and freight transport between the two regions. Loch Ryan's geography, with its deep and sheltered waters, has made it an ideal location for these operations, supporting the continued economic link between Scotland and Northern Ireland.
On The Loch Ryan Coastal Path. In addition to its modern use, Loch Ryan has historical significance dating back to World War II when it served as a base for naval operations. The loch's sheltered conditions made it a safe haven for military ships during the war. Today, while its primary function is for commercial ferry traffic, Loch Ryan remains a site of both historical and strategic maritime importance.
