NTS Venniehill, Gatehouse of Fleet
Venniehill is a species rich wildflower meadow on a south facing slope overlooking Gatehouse of Fleet and the surrounding countryside. Situated in the Fleet Valley National Scenic Area this small property has a footpath which takes visitors to a viewpoint near the top of the hill where the the stunning Galloway landscape can be enjoyed.
- The meadows are alive with butterflies, bumblebees and other invertebrates during the summer months. Badgers visit after dark to forage for earthworms, berries and small mammals and fallow and roe deer come out of the woods to graze on the species rich grasslands.
- Drifts of common spotted orchids are a spectacle in early summer followed by stunning display of knapweed and devil’s-bit scabious in August providing valuable nectar for a range of insects. The flower seed heads which follow are a great food supply for finches and other small birds.
Best in
The summer months for the rich variety of flowers and insect life.
Location
At the west end of Fleet Street, Gatehouse of Fleet's main street
Postcode: DG7 2EG
Grid reference: NX594559
How to get there
By car: Take the Gatehouse of Fleet B796 turning off the A75. The wooden-gated entrance to Venniehill is less than a mile further along the road, just before entering Gatehouse's main street.
By bus service: Bus number 500/x75 from Dumfries to Stranraer stops at Gatehouse of Fleet.
By cycle/on foot: Sustrans route 7
Facilities
- Car parking for a small number of cars is available along single track road at bottom of Venniehill.
- A short foot path round the meadow takes visitors to a viewpoint with an information panel.
- Public toilets and teashops are a short walk away in gatehouse.
Contact
The National Trust for Scotland
Countryside Team
Ranger Office Number: 0844 4932244
Email: threave@nts.org.uk
Website: www.nts.org.uk