Stranraer lies on the shores of Loch Ryan in the Wigtownshire region of Dumfries and Galloway, in the far South West of Scotland, and is the second-largest town in Dumfries and Galloway.
Stranraer was formerly a ferry port connecting southwest Scotland with Belfast and Larne in Northern Ireland; the ferry service has since been transferred to nearby Cairnryan (7 miles) but remains one of the main industries in the area along with tourism, farming and associated industries.
This particular part of Wigtownshire has one of Scotland's most picturesque landscapes, home to Scotland's most southerly point at the Mull of Galloway (21 miles) and further east the Galloway Forest National Park (45 miles).
Stranraer itself has a really good museum at the Castle of St. John, in the centre of the town, which you can climb right to the roof to enjoy magnificent views over Stranraer.
Agnew Park, on the shores of Loch Ryan, offers a great day out for children and adults alike. There are pedal boats and a miniature train, adventure playground island and pitch and putt golf.
Stair Park, home to Stranraer Football Club whose pitch is within the park, has tennis courts, a skate/scooter park, band stand, swings and playground as well as relaxing gardens.
When the weather isn't favourable visit the Ryan Centre for a swim in the leisure pool, stay fit in the gym or hire a court or the hall for badminton or football. The Ryan Theatre shows films and hosts live theatre and music events.
You'll find links to local schools, amenities, visitor attractions and related websites below:
Local Council
Dumfries & Galloway Council (www.dumgal.gov.uk)
Primary Schools
Park Primary School
St. Joseph's R C Primary School
Sheuchan Primary School
Belmont Primary School
Secondary School
Stranraer Academy (www.stranraeracademy.co.uk)
Leisure Centre & Cinema
Ryan Centre (www.dumgal.gov.uk)
Dumfries & Galloway Tourist Board
VisitScotland (www.visitscotland.com/destinations-maps/dumfries-galloway/)
