Loch Patrick Shepherds Hut

Ideal for couples or solo travellers looking to explore the Galloway Hills and Solway Coast, this unique hut is set on a working farm on the outskirts of the small village of Kirkpatrick Durham, about 6 miles from the foodie town of Castle Douglas. Galloway is renowned for its remoteness and wild scenery, alongside being a Dark Sky Reserve – on a clear night, look out for thousands of stars and planets, including the dramatic sweep of the Milky Way.

Opportunities for outdoor activities abound, including hill walking, cycling, bird watching, golf, fishing (sea, coarse or game) and wildlife spotting. At the Galloway Activity Centre by Loch Ken (11 miles), you can enjoy climbing, laser tag, archery and a wide variety of water sports.

Feed the red kites at Laurieston, 9.5 miles, or head to sheltered Sandyhills Beach, 13.5 miles. Experience a complete change of pace in this delightful hut, with no distractions from the outside world.

Clad in corrugated iron and with a traditional, barrel-shaped roof, it offers the chance to sit back and relax, enjoying a simple way of life. Take five wooden steps up to the raised sitting area and enter the open-plan interior.

This cosy, timber-lined space features a small wood burner in one corner, ensuring warmth whatever the weather. The wood burner can be used for boiling water for hot drinks.

Traditional, comfortable seating is set near the wood burner, while a custom-made, king-size bed takes up one end of the hut, boasting a comfortable mattress, British wool quilt, pillows, and cosy blankets. Completing the interior is a 1950s cabinet which holds everything you’ll need for your stay, including champagne flutes.

Set separate from the hut, is the off-grid shower (with hot and cold running water) and a composting WC (no smell and full instructions provided). The main cooking and washing-up area for the hut is the outside kitchen, where you’ll find essential utensils, a small gas stove and a charcoal BBQ.