Galloway Activity Centre
Galloway Activity Centre
5
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 7:30 PM
Full view
About
Welcome to the Galloway Activity Centre. We are situated on the banks of Loch Ken in south west Scotland and have an exciting range of activities for families, individuals and groups alike. Here you will find details of our services & facilities including activities, courses, equipment hire, accommodation and holiday packages. Choose from: Sailing, Windsurfing, Powerboating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Outdoor Laser Tag, Archery, Mountain Biking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Giant Water Slide, Climbing and more...Our aim is to give you a memorable holiday in a safe and friendly family atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming you.
Castle Douglas, Scotland
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2023
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Galloway Activity Centre
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5.0
666 reviews
Excellent
586
Very good
61
Average
13
Poor
3
Terrible
3
TerriandBen
Bolton, UK2 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
We spent the afternoon on the Inflatable water park.
Good quality Wet suits, boyance aids and helmets provided.
The inflatables were great fun! Some tough to climb but once you get the hang of it, it's great.
Experience made by instructor Tom. He was fun, encouraging and really made the experience amazing.
Would definitely recommend for couples and families.
We will definitely return to try other activities.
Good quality Wet suits, boyance aids and helmets provided.
The inflatables were great fun! Some tough to climb but once you get the hang of it, it's great.
Experience made by instructor Tom. He was fun, encouraging and really made the experience amazing.
Would definitely recommend for couples and families.
We will definitely return to try other activities.
Written 17 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are thrilled to know that you had a great time on your wobbly waterpark session! We value your feedback and we would love to welcome you back in the future :)
Written 24 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ian C
27 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Just back from a week at the otter
First time in this part of Scotland and wow simply stunning place beautiful scenery
The lodge we stayed in was the otter
One big circular room with shower room bed kitchen all in one
Remarkably spacious inside
No hanging space for clothes and there is room if they dispose of the silly egg chair ! The drawers under the bed were both broken the handles were off both and exposed very sharp screw !
There is 3 USB ports so you can charge phones etc but there are no conventional sockets as advertised
Outside big decking with table and chairs and a wood fired hot tub ( more about that later )
There was actually a little barbecue as well even though that wasn't anywhere in the description
It is advertised as your "own private access to the loch " which is a bit of a stretch as it's an off shoot of the loch and is basically a weedy shallow pond albeit large but it's surrounded by trees so you can't see anything of the main loch
Downsides -there is constant traffic noise and you can clearly hear screams and whoops from anyone enjoying the on-site activity centre so not entirely peaceful and the otter is on the track down to the other bovvies so there is cars up and down most days
Big downside is there are zero walks around the main loch that's not their fault obviously but still was disappointing
The hot tub is hard to get right either a boiling cauldron or not hot enough it's a massive downside of this type of tub
I'd suggest lighting it 3 hours before you want to use it and make sure you stir it up with the giant paddle ( provided )!!
Plenty of wild birds and we even had a visit from a red squirrel which came within a couple of feet of us as we were on the decking !
Bring your own lanterns they provide lots of candles though if you forget
First time in this part of Scotland and wow simply stunning place beautiful scenery
The lodge we stayed in was the otter
One big circular room with shower room bed kitchen all in one
Remarkably spacious inside
No hanging space for clothes and there is room if they dispose of the silly egg chair ! The drawers under the bed were both broken the handles were off both and exposed very sharp screw !
There is 3 USB ports so you can charge phones etc but there are no conventional sockets as advertised
Outside big decking with table and chairs and a wood fired hot tub ( more about that later )
There was actually a little barbecue as well even though that wasn't anywhere in the description
It is advertised as your "own private access to the loch " which is a bit of a stretch as it's an off shoot of the loch and is basically a weedy shallow pond albeit large but it's surrounded by trees so you can't see anything of the main loch
Downsides -there is constant traffic noise and you can clearly hear screams and whoops from anyone enjoying the on-site activity centre so not entirely peaceful and the otter is on the track down to the other bovvies so there is cars up and down most days
Big downside is there are zero walks around the main loch that's not their fault obviously but still was disappointing
The hot tub is hard to get right either a boiling cauldron or not hot enough it's a massive downside of this type of tub
I'd suggest lighting it 3 hours before you want to use it and make sure you stir it up with the giant paddle ( provided )!!
Plenty of wild birds and we even had a visit from a red squirrel which came within a couple of feet of us as we were on the decking !
Bring your own lanterns they provide lots of candles though if you forget
Written 24 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind words! We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay in one of our Eco Bothies :) We aim to make our guests feel welcome and relaxed! We appreciate your feedback, it will help us to improve our services. Thank you for choosing Galloway Activity Centre and Loch Ken Eco Bothies!
Written 24 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Allie R
Yorkshire, UK28 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
If you are an adventurous person then this is the place for you. The centre does a whole host of water based activities as well as land based. Everything from laser tag to sailing. We did the water park which was great fun. There are obstacles in the Loch which you climb, scramble over and slide down. You are in the water for a good hour and it is exhausting! But you can come ashore and leave the session if need be. You need to be a strong swimmer, the obstacles are quite far apart and you need to be able to swim to each one. You will be provided with a wet suit but the water is freezing! You will have an instructor with you at all times which is comforting when it's just your children going in the water. There is a little cafe that has windows so you can look out over the loch. It sells basic food and it is in my opinion expensive. £6 for a very basic cheese toastie. £2 for a mug of tea. The staff are really pleasant and helpful for me as I walk with crutches and they were quite happy to carry my tea over to my table. There are homemade cakes available and canned drinks too. The water park was £30 a person which included the wet suit hire, helmet and shoes if required. I think it is well worth the money.
Written 14 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Martin M
Johnstone, UK3 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We are just back from a great couple of days at GAC. The last time we visited was 12 years ago, we returned with the same group again staying in the bunkhouse. The kids are a lot bigger now and thoroughly enjoyed all the activities, they just want to stay longer next time.
A special shout out to out instructor Andy who was extra patient with out son while doing the climbing activity, a fantastic instructor who made our trip even better. We actually remembered Andy from 12 years ago as he helped us a lot with sailing back then so it was great to see he was still there.
We won't leave it so long for our next visit.
A special shout out to out instructor Andy who was extra patient with out son while doing the climbing activity, a fantastic instructor who made our trip even better. We actually remembered Andy from 12 years ago as he helped us a lot with sailing back then so it was great to see he was still there.
We won't leave it so long for our next visit.
Written 11 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for such a lovely feedback! It's always great to hear that customers are coming back to us and enjoy the time! We'll pass your review to Andy, he's indeed a great instructor! :) Many thanks for that and hope to see you here again soon!
Written 19 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
clairemcc76
Wishaw, UK8 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Had a lovely couple of days here, Archery and Paddle boarding. Tom took us for archery, great sense of humour, so positive and went through everything very well. This morning we had a lovely morning of learning how to Paddleboard with Jenna, smashing girl. Had us standing and moving in no time at all. Very helpful and made us feel at ease. Both of these instructors are a huge asset to the Galloway Activity Centre.
Our accommodation....weeelll the Lochside cabins are in need of some TLC and maybe a.little thought to a new layout or renovation, the location is great but they could be so much more with a little care and thought. We were initially in Cabin 5 but had to move and the girl on reception was both understanding and fantastic she had us moved into cabin 4 in a few minutes, which was the same layout but much, much better. As far as staff and activities go this would be a 5 star we had a lovely time but the accommodation just let us down a little (it wasn't expensive given the location - if there was a bit of a revamp done I'd definitely pay the extra to stay here). However if you are only doing a night or two then I guess it would be ok.
We will return to the centre in future though and would recommend it for those looking for a day or two out.
Our accommodation....weeelll the Lochside cabins are in need of some TLC and maybe a.little thought to a new layout or renovation, the location is great but they could be so much more with a little care and thought. We were initially in Cabin 5 but had to move and the girl on reception was both understanding and fantastic she had us moved into cabin 4 in a few minutes, which was the same layout but much, much better. As far as staff and activities go this would be a 5 star we had a lovely time but the accommodation just let us down a little (it wasn't expensive given the location - if there was a bit of a revamp done I'd definitely pay the extra to stay here). However if you are only doing a night or two then I guess it would be ok.
We will return to the centre in future though and would recommend it for those looking for a day or two out.
Written 6 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Guide25369055608
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Family
Great day had by all! We went as three adults and three children 11-15. The adults did laser tag and the children did the water slide. We did the sessions at the same time so didn't see them but the children said they loved the water slide! The instructors sounded great and made them do all sorts of games and challenges as they went down. I was concerned we'd feel a bit of of place doing laser tag with a load of other people's children but it was amazing! There were 16 in the group in total, split into two teams of 8. Ages ranged from about 7 to 45 and all ages seemed to get really into it and have a great time. The 1.5 hour session absolutely flew by! The set up was great in the woods with lots of things to try to hide behind, the equipment was great and the guns are really accurate, the instructor was brilliant. So much fun! Would definitely recommend.
Written 31 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
O wow! That's amazing to hear you had a great time at Galloway Activity Centre :) Thank you so much for a lovely feedback! We'll pass it to all the instructors that were with you on that day and they'll be more than happy to hear you had a great fun with them! Thanks again and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Written 19 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Laura M
5 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
I went with our two teenage children (18 and 15) to do a high ropes afternoon, which includes the giant swing. I think our instructor was called Andy - he was originally from York, I remember that! We had a fabulous afternoon - hard to choose the best bit but for me probably the 'Leap of Faith' and crate climb at the end - I think both my son and I got much higher than we ever thought we would! The giant swing was quite nausea inducing, I have to admit, but scary/fun in the way that roller coasters at Alton Towers are, lol! I felt that safety was extremely good, I didn't have a moment's anxiety, and Andy was a great instructor - very calm, friendly and encouraging.
Written 21 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That's great to hear you had an exciting day at Galloway Activity Centre! We'll pass your lovely feedback to Andy :)
Thank you for your positive review and hope to see you again soon 😊
Written 16 July 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robert S
Dumfries and Galloway, UK3 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
I spent a weekend there as part of my sons birthday. A brilliant 2 day's of activities.
I must mention Rob, who looked after us on a few of the activities and in particular the high Ropes and Giant Swing etc. His professionalism was exceptional throughout.
He had an excellent mix of humour and encouragement.
All of the staff we interacted with were also excellent.
Superb few days.
I must mention Rob, who looked after us on a few of the activities and in particular the high Ropes and Giant Swing etc. His professionalism was exceptional throughout.
He had an excellent mix of humour and encouragement.
All of the staff we interacted with were also excellent.
Superb few days.
Written 16 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great to hear you enjoyed your time with us! We will pass your feedback to Rob and all team. Many thanks for taking the time to leave us a positive review :)
Written 19 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
david c
1 contribution
May 2023 • Business
I ran a Scout Camp here last weekend which included 57 children aged from 8 - 18.
The centre was perfect for the different ages with various styles of accommodation available and a medium sized camping field, big enough to use half for tents and the other half for games.
The centre management organised a great mix of activities split between water and land to keep everyone engaged throughout the weekend and were always available for questions or help when required.
What really made the difference though was the fantastic instructors who tailored every activity to the abilities of the age groups in question, they were extremely patient and helpful with the younger owns whilst introducing elements of competition and challenge for the older scouts.
I couldn’t recommend this centre highly enough and look forward to returning in the future.
The centre was perfect for the different ages with various styles of accommodation available and a medium sized camping field, big enough to use half for tents and the other half for games.
The centre management organised a great mix of activities split between water and land to keep everyone engaged throughout the weekend and were always available for questions or help when required.
What really made the difference though was the fantastic instructors who tailored every activity to the abilities of the age groups in question, they were extremely patient and helpful with the younger owns whilst introducing elements of competition and challenge for the older scouts.
I couldn’t recommend this centre highly enough and look forward to returning in the future.
Written 31 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for taking a time and leaving this lovely review for us! That’s wonderful to hear you had a great time with us. It was a pure pleasure to host so well organised and such a lovely group of youngers. Thanks for bringing them down. I'll pass on this feedback to the team and they'll be thrilled.
We'll be more than happy to have you here again and we're looking forward to it!
Written 5 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Leanmeangreen78
Glasgow, UK9 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
We stayed for 4 days over the Easter holidays and everyone, kids and adults, all had the most amazing time. Accommodation was great, can’t get over the space in the yurts and with the log stove it was so cosy for the kids overnight. We were in the water pretty much everyday so having the changing rooms with hot showers and the cafe right next to the lake was brilliant. We booked 15 of us, kids and adults onto laser tag in the woods. With kids ranging from ages 6 to 14 they all loved it and were able to fully join in and enjoy it and special thank you to instructor Rob who ran a great set of games for us and ensured all the kids had the best time. We are already in planning our return trip in the summer.
Written 17 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We’re extremely pleased to hear that you had an amazing time with us! All our staff are always delighted to read such a positive review, thank you for taking a time and leaving it for us!
We look forward to see you back here in the summer 😊
Written 30 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Scottish-Hidden-Gems🏴💎
Ayrshire, UK6,717 contributions
What is the toilet/shower facilties for the accommodations such as dome/yurts?
Cant see any info on website.
Monica M
United Kingdom
Is there a shop on site for bread & milk?
Ashleigh E
3 contributions
There is a cafe but no shop. I presume if you called and asked them if they could provide this from the cafe to avoid having to come to town or the local village both a mile or so either side of the Loch. Hope this helps enjoy Scotland, the views are amazing!! Living around here a different story! Pretty safe as traveller to visit though xo
Nicola M
Gloucester, UK2 contributions
Hi - I am thinking of coming to the centre with my family - I'm wondering what activities would be suitable for a 4 year old? Thanks in advance
gac_lochken
Castle Douglas, UK7 contributions
Hi Nicola,
Many thanks for getting in touch!
Most of our activities are suitable for a 4 year old - the only ones i wouldn't recommend are the Wobbly Water Park, Mountain Biking and Windsurfing. You can find more info about the activities we have on offer on our website
Many thanks and we hope to see you here soon!
01556 502011
Steven H
Northallerton, UK1 contribution
Are dogs allowed
gac_lochken
Castle Douglas, UK7 contributions
Hi there, yes we are a dog friendly centre! However, we prefer people to keep dogs on leads and clean up after them. There is a small charge for dogs staying in accommodation, £3.50 per night or £12.50 for the week :)
Hi we are coming tho stay at the campsite and were wondering if it's possible to have campfire?
Thanks
Justine
gac_lochken
Castle Douglas, UK7 contributions
Hi
WE have a communal fire pit at the front of the centre on the decking which you are welcome to use. We do not allow fires on the grass by the tents unless they are on a raised fire pit (ie so the grass does not burn).
Hope this helps.
Richard
leejane b
Reading, UK14 contributions
How long is the zip wire? Is there a weight restriction?
vbm1461
Leeds, UK
Is there wood burning stove or cooking facility in 4 people yurt please ?
gac_lochken
Castle Douglas, UK7 contributions
Hi, unfortunately there is no wood burning stove in the Hill Yurt but there is a small camping gas stove you can use for cooking.
Victoria
vbm1461
Leeds, UK
Is there wood burning stove or cooking facility in 4 people yurt please ?
vbm1461
Leeds, UK
Will it be okay to have bbq in hill yurts area if it's raining please ?
any shelter for raining weather ?
gac_lochken
Castle Douglas, UK7 contributions
Hi, thanks for getting in touch. I'm afraid although the Hill Yurt has the best views in the centre the flip side of that is that it's quite exposed in bad weather and there is no covered BBQ area. The 6 berth Yurts are slightly more sheltered but again there is no roofed area for cooking outside.
Hope this helps and please let us know if you have any other questions
tangpo
Leeds, UK
Is there private bbq area on Hill yurts please?
Richard H
Macclesfield, UK10 contributions
Hi Richard
Yes there is a private BBQ for the hill yurt. If it is not there for any reason please ask at reception and we will take care of it for you. Hope this helps and please do come back to us if you need anymore answers. Please note you will need to bring your own charcoal.
Richard