Castle of St John in Stranraer

During your stay at Coorie Retreats, we recommend a visit to the Castle of St John. This fantastic visitor experience is only a 15-minute drive or bus ride from our glamping site. Standing tall in the centre of Stranraer, it is a 16th-century tower house. Discover its fascinating story through exhibitions, displays, videos and family activities. You can also enjoy amazing views from the castle, over the town and beyond.

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Castle of St John history

The Castle of St John is an L-plan tower house, built for the Adairs of Kilhilt family in around 1510. Originally a grand home for a rich and powerful family, over the centuries it became a courthouse, police station, military base, Victorian jail and World War II ARP base. Today it is a museum and visitor attraction, where you can explore the castle and learn about its rich history. The museum is open during the summer months or by special arrangement.

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Visiting the castle and Stranraer town

You can’t miss the castle in Stranraer town centre. It is easy to get there from your base at Coorie Retreats, by car, taxi or bus in around 15 minutes. Please check the seasonal opening times for the castle museum before visiting, as it is only open at selected times, mainly over the summer months. Admission is free. There is plenty more to enjoy around Stranraer, with places to shop, eat and drink in the town centre, and nearby attractions such as Stranraer Museum and Agnew Park.

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Book your break in Dumfries and Galloway today

So, book your glamping holiday at Coorie Retreats and get ready to explore the wonders of Portpatrick, Stranraer and the Rhins of Galloway. Find more amazing things to do during your stay with our Things To Do Guide.

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Testimonials

Lovely welcome hamper

Came in January with my partner for a nights stay in Bonnie Brae Lodge. Received check in details in plenty time. Arrived and everything was set up lovely, room and hot tub was warm for us arriving. Lodge came fully furnished very comfortable and homely. Comes with a fully fitted kitchen with coffee makers. Lovely welcome hamper along with bottle of Prosecco chilling in fridge. Also comes with an Amazon Alexa which was fab. Two TV’s with great signal also. Overall this stay was excellent and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Coorie retreats is an excellent establishment with beautiful lodges and views. Only thing we would change is earlier check in time and later check out time to enjoy for longer!

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