Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(55 George St; 10am-5pm Mon-Fri, 10am-1pm & 1.30-4.30pm Sat)
This museum
houses exhibits on local history and you can learn about Stranraer's polar explorers. The
highlight is the carved stone pipe from Madagascar.
Sleeping & Eating
B&B, HOSTEL
Balyett Farm££
(
01776-703395;
www.balyettbb.co.uk
; Cairnryan Rd; dm/s £20/55, d £65-75; )
A
mile north of town on the A77, Balyett has a super-welcoming host and lovely relaxing
rooms in a tranquil setting; they are light, bright, clean as a whistle and boast lovely views
over the surrounding country. Out the back is a self-catering cabin that sleeps five; it's a
great space for a family but can also be used for beds on a dorm basis.
Ivy House£
(
01776-704176;
www.ivyhouse-ferrylink.co.uk
; 3 Ivy Pl; s/d £30/50, s without bath-
room £25; )
This is a great guesthouse that does Scottish hospitality proud, with excel-
lent facilities, tidy en suite rooms and a smashing breakfast. Nothing is too much trouble
for the genial host, who always has a smile for their guests. The room at the back over-
looking the churchyard is particularly light and quiet.
B&B
North West Castle Hotel££
(
01776-704413;
www.northwestcastle.co.uk
; s/d £80/120; )
Showing its age
but still an enjoyable time-warp experience, this was formerly the home of Arctic explorer
Sir John Ross. Rooms need a wee upgrade, but are comfortable enough: try for sea views.
Service is excellent and here's the real pull: it was the first hotel in the world to have an
indoor curling rink.
HOTEL
L'Aperitif££
(
01776-702991;
www.laperitifstranraer.co.uk
;
London Rd; mains £10-14; Tue-Sat;
)
Purgatory at dinnertime can look uncannily like Stranraer at times, so thank the
powers that be for this cheerful local. It's definitely the town's best restaurant and is close
to being its best pub too. Despite the name, dishes are more Italian than French, with great
pastas alongside roasts, saltimbocca, and delicious appetisers featuring things like smoked
salmon or greenlip mussels.
BISTRO
