Introduction

This evening, I am reporting on Wigtown (pop 900) in Dumfries & Galloway, southern Scotland.

Information on Wigtown

Wigtown has a long history dating back at least to the 13th century when a castle existed. The town has always been commercially orientated. It had a busy port (which still exists) and more recently a creamery and railway connection. The latter two no longer function although the bed of the railway line is still visible.

Location is about ninety miles south of Glasgow and close to the border with England.

The name is probably of Anglo-Saxon origin which translates as ‘farm stead’.

The nearest major town is Newton Stewart, some seven miles to the north.

Following commercial decline in the 20th century a decision was made to re-invent Wigtown as a ‘book town’. This initiative was to mirror Hay-on-Wye in Wales and has proved a notable success. Whilst there are shops catering for basic items such as pharmacy and groceries most of the others are dedicated to books.

In addition to the bibliophile market visitors can explore the bay area, which is within walking distance of the town.

Wigtown Bay is an important Bay estuary for wildlife. Freshwater from the rivers Cree and Bladnoch mixes with seawater, creating large areas of mud flats and salt marshes. The animals and plants living here can often be found in no other habitat.

The Bay is the largest Local Nature Reserve in Britain. Traditional activities include wildfowling and fishing. The latter are managed to ensure economic benefits to the local community and a long-term future for the Bay’s wildlife.

MORE INFORMATION FOR THE VISITOR

The publication, Visitors’ Guide to Scotland extends to some 800 pages. This book is heavily illustrated and contains a wealth of information. The ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.