History
The village goes back some 700 years and is adjacent to the ruins of Dunskey Castle. The community was founded on fishing, operating from the sandy crescent-shaped harbour, which is still very much the focal point today, complete with small fishing fleet. There's an intriguing ruined church dating from 1629, and this might well be standing on the remains of an earlier church known as St Patrick's Chapel. A very unusual round tower that originally stood on its own might indicate that it was used as a lighthouse for the harbour and there's a noticeable Irish influence on the architecture. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Portpatrick was an important passenger ferry port and for both mail and freight between Scotland and Ireland. The evocative ruin of Dunskey Castle, which you can reach from a steep trail and narrow bridge, is not the first such fortification to stand on this dominating height. Remains date back to the 13th century at least. The romantic remains were used in the 1951 film of Robert Louis Stevenson's ‘Kidnapped'.
Landmarks
The whole charming curve of the harbourside is a landmark in itself, lined with attractive pastel coloured houses and hotels, with the cliffs behind. Beyond the looming profile of Dunskey Castle and the old church round tower, there are plenty more landmarks to explore. Take the footpath to the 19th-century Agnew Monument, and you'll be at the site of a mysterious Iron Age Hillfort known as the Tor of Craigoch. Much of the fortification now nestles amongst gorse and lush rhododendrons, but once they formed two immense ramparts that encircled the hill. The view across Loch Ryan here is wonderful, but also demonstrates the strategic and defensive significance of the place. In contrast, Dunskey Gardens is sheltered and lush, with a beautiful, recently restored Walled Garden and fine displays throughout the year, from late winter snowdrops to spring bluebells, to the exotic species that come to life in the glasshouses during autumn.
Restaurants
From Portpatrick hotels you will only be a short stroll from somewhere good to eat. The Waterfront Hotel has an intimate and friendly ambiance with stunning views over the harbour to the open sea. Menus change regularly and are complemented by an excellent selection of wines. If you fancy a high-end gastronomic treat, the Knockinaam Lodge Restaurant is the only Michelin Star restaurant in Dumfries and Galloway. A combination of sublime food and a stunning location will probably be enough to temp you.
