Gelston Castle and Grounds. Kirkcudbrightshire.

A lovely October morning was encouragement enough to get out for a walk before lunch. We enjoyed the peace and quiet of a wee walk, admittedly not very strenuous, around what is still a grand country estate of which once was the home of the gentleman that gave the town of Castle Douglas its name.

Drive to Gelston cross roads and park your transport at the side of its community hall. Then follow the pathway opposite the war memorial, through the woods until you reach a vehicle track and turn left. Follow this until a tall tower comes into view.

This was once the stable block for the estate but has been carefully converted into holiday cottages and homes. While you are here sneak a look to the rear of the block and you will find a beautiful garden area with a tennis court, also there is a swimming pool that paying guests could use in the summer months.

To the left of the road way you should know be able to see the remains of Gelston Castle through the trees.

Not really a castle, more of a toy fort, Sir William Douglas had his large country house built from red sand stone in 1805, just 4 years before his death. The castle has greatly decayed since the roof was removed in the 1950’s for tax purposes.

The estate has belonged to Alexander and Lucinda Scott since 1973 who have been permanent residents since 1989 living in what was the former head gardener’s house.

Take a detour down the main driveway to see what would have been the entrance to the castle before returning to your vehicle along the roadway making a grand circular walk.   

Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 312.