Does anyone know the roads from Gretna across to Newton Stewart/Wigtown? I guess the A75/712.
I wonder how long to allow for that treck on a Saturday in August.
What about the Wigtown bay coast. Has anyone lived/visited there?
David
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Kind of similar query, I know some of the readers of the backroom have spent some time in South America. Has anybody spent any length of time in Bolivia, preferably Santa Cruz ?
I'd appreciate a mail if you have.
M.
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This road has improved over the years with a couple of new bypasses but has heavy traffic going to Stranraer ferry terminal allow 1 and half hours
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Via Michelin says 96 miles and 2 hours 4 min from Gretna Services to Stranraer and I am inclined to agree. I haven't driven it all but the bit I have from Galloway Forest Park area is slow with not many overtaking opportunities if you are stuck behind a truck or two.
Keep the family out of the Gretna factory outlets centre unless you want to see the price of a couple of BXs disappear in less than an hour. I recommend the chippy/sweet shop in Gretna village although it isn't quite as good as the one in Lockerbie 20 minutes up the M74.
David
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It's a long time ago, but I'd guess a couple of hours, + rather than - .
The country was fine forty years ago.
Give my regards to Chapelcross in passing. Only salt mine I ever really liked (I don't glow in the dark, either!).
Cheers, Tomo
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David,
My folks live in Newton Stewart so I travel this route a lot. The A75 is, I believe, a Euroroute and so is maintained to a high standard. It usually runs pretty fast and the only limiting factor is the Stranraer traffic as Andy noted, and (of course) caravans. Although I can't remember any Gatsos, do look out for mobile speed traps - I was nabbed a few years ago. Gatehouse of Fleet is a nice place to stop for a cuppa.
The A712 passes through some very picturesque scenery, though is very much slower than the A75.
Have fun,
Phil
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David W,
Be very careful of the lorries heading for the ferries to Ireland along the A75 they stop for no-one, I have frequently seen them side by side at 70 mph as they race along. This is not another anti lorry driver message but a statement of fact! Allow 2 hrs from Gretna and you should be there in time. I'll give you a wave as you pass Penrith on the M6!
I'm sure PDP will back me up on this!
Rob S
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Rob, I've heard a rumour that the truckers put money in a hat for the race between the Stranraer and the south coast ports!
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Phil,
We haven't confirmed a final location yet but it is likely to be on the Wigtown Bay Coast.
What is your view of the area from local experience?
David
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David, I'll put something in an e-mail to you
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