Overview
Wigtownshire, also called the County of Wigtown, is a historic county in the southwest of Scotland. It occupies the western half of the traditional district of Galloway and faces the Irish Sea. The small burgh of Wigtown gives the area its name, while Stranraer has long been the largest town and principal port.
Landscape and geography
The county includes two characteristic peninsulas — the Rhins of Galloway and the Machars — and a deeply indented coast of bays, headlands and sandy beaches. The landscape is a mix of rough pasture, arable farmland and coastal habitats; its seascapes have shaped a history of fishing, small ports and ferry links to Ireland.
History and administration
Wigtownshire grew out of the medieval lordship of Galloway and shows Norse, Gaelic and Anglo-Norman influences in place‑names and archaeology. It remained an administrative county until local government reorganisation in 1975, when it became part of the Dumfries and Galloway region; the name persists as a registration and ceremonial area.
Places of interest and culture
- Wigtown: known as Scotland's National Book Town and host of an annual book festival.
- Whithorn: site of an early Christian centre and medieval priory associated with Saint Ninian.
- Stranraer: historic ferry port linking Scotland and Northern Ireland (services later moved to nearby ports).
- Coastal villages such as Portpatrick and Glenluce, and market towns like Newton Stewart, provide local hubs.
For practical information and further reading about local heritage and visitor attractions see local resources.
