The Belted Galloway Viisitor Centre in Dumfries & Galloway

After being seated I asked the bald headed male assistant if the company allowed smoking outside the premises as there was a strong smell of cigarette smoke within the eating area. Yes was the reply with a face that said “Oh here we go” he said the doors were open because of the recent hot weather. Today is not one of the hot days and diners should not be subjected to unwanted passive smoke. Next he arrives at the table with my Wife’s order and says I need to wait as he hadn’t boiled the kettle. What a pathetic excuse because I asked about smoking. Upon leaving there was no trace of anyone having used the 3 outside tables but lo and behold the kitchen door is open immediately beside the smoking area. I leave it for you to decide if it was staff members smoking and polluting the dining area. Next time I will use of the many venues within 100 metres of this location for a tea/coffee or a bite to eat.

Stopped here on route to Edinburgh. Was a bit disappointed that the meat on the menu wasn't from Belted Galloways - would have expected this seeing as it is a centre promoting the breed. Lunch was pleasant enough - burger was a bit greasy so wouldn't recommend that. Staff were very friendly.

What a great cafe this is. Staff are super helpful and friendly. We had a jacket potato with tuna mayo and an extra large prawn cocktail. Both were fresh, tasty and large. The cafe was quite full so we sat in the back room. My only complaint is that the view is of a scruffy unkempt bit of garden. This needs a bit of tlc.

Stumbled across this place after finding out the Riverbank didn't take dogs and we were pleasantly surprised. Food was decent and hot. Nice friendly staff and service was good.

What a hidden gem. We have a caravan nearby and had came to Newton Stewart on a rainy day to visit the cinema. We had went to shops first at Aldi and Sainsbury's and spotted this cafe tucked in corner. They were welcoming and found us a table even though it was busy. We just had coffees n cakes but I spotted people with burgers and they looked amazing. My kids had milkshakes that came in old fashioned milk bottles and tasted amazing for £1.50 each they were a bit. The cakes were to amazing and massive. Definitely would recommend.

A group of friends visited as this restaurant was suggested by others in the party. Food great, service and all staff excellent, dogs accepted - great. Cakes great. Had I not been in a party that this venue was suggested by others,, I wouldn't have got beyond the entrance I'm afraid. The atmosphere and paintwork inside could do with a change to reflect the natural light and superb positioning of the restaurant. It just goes to show - you can't judge a book by it's cover.

Visit regularly when in the area as the cake is unbeatable. Friendly staff, good coffee and a great choice of cakes and tray bakes

Today we decided to go to The Beltie Galloway for our afternoon tea. It was myself and my husband . No special occassion..just because we can 🙂 The food was fantastic as always . The amount of sandwiches sausage rolls ,pancakes,scones and cakes was more than ample for 2 . We even had to get the doggie bag to take home with us. The staff were so friendly and very helpful. Price was to our liking 👍. I would highly recommend visiting here wether it's for a coffee and cake or a full meal (Xmas menus are out now ) you won't be disappointed. The place is dog friendly and accessible for wheelchairs /scooters. Afternoon tea needs 24 hours notice.

A group of four of us descended upon this place at lunchtime. There is a small gift area selling various local items and tourist things, but the main attraction here has got to be the food. Quite an extensive menu with plenty to suit all tastes. Our little group had, Haggis and cheese panini, hot chicken baguette with gravy, mac n cheese, and cheese and onion toastie, all with chips, of course. The drinks were four large latte's. There was not one complaint about the food from anyone, it was hot, tasty, and served by some very helpful, polite and cheery staff members. If you happen to be anywhere near Newton Stewart, I would recommend a visit to this place. Thoroughly enjoyable. By the way, the mac n cheese was probably the cheesiest ever tasted. By that, I mean full of flavour.

This is a must stop when we visit D&G as the coffee and cakes are both excellent with friendly service and a clean and tidy cafe Tray bakes are particularly good

Fantastic place to eat and drink 👍 Has an 'odd' location next to the main Car Park (that's free) but don't let that put you off. Food and drink are very good and the staff are really friendly and helpful - they make lovely Flat Whites 🙂 Inside it is decorated with lots of pictures and paraphernalia that can keep you occupied for hours whilst you eat there 🙂 They also have Maps and lots of info on local walks. You can also buy little souveniers and little gifts Absolutely top place to visit 👍

Lovely lunch which was reasonably priced. However the shop was disappointing. No belted gallowaty souvenirs.

Off the high street, near to Sainsburys, on the banks of the Cree, this cafe is a great place to take a break after shopping. Very dog friendly, good food (not fine dining, but filling and tasty). The only thing stopping me from the 5th star is the slightly tired decor and terrible lighting.

We came here by chance. We were touring in the area. We saw the shop and thought of gifts for the family. Glad we did. We had a great lunch here. The staff were great but the lunch was even better. Go here hungry as the portions are HUGE!!! I had the bacon cheese burger. Amazing. My partner had the fish and chips. Lovely lunch. Highly recommended. We will return.

Thought it was closed on the Sunday morning but open, very friendly, efficient, relaxed and great coffee

We had takeaway Sunday lunch (roast beef) last weekend. It was superb. Beautifully cooked. Huge portions. Lovely and hot. Wished we lived nearer so we could have regularly.

We always stop here for coffee when we are in the area and weren't disappointed. The tray bakes are amazing especially the custard cream one - please don't stop making it!

Came here for a spot of lunch and were pleasantly surprised. Food and service was great and very reasonably priced for what we got. Could not fault it and will definitely be back again.

We had lunch here and the meal and service were excellent. Very reasonable priced. Well worth visiting. In addition to the cafe there is a small shop selling touristy goods. This venue also provides tourist information literature

Took a couple of friends here for a coffee and snacks. Had the cheese burgers. What a size. Lovely onion rings, chips. Lovely burger. Great service. Would highly recommend.

I call in here every week for a take out brew. I have also ate in here with friends. Consistently good service, attentive staff. Good home cooked food. Well priced. Covid precautions in place, always feel comfortable going in.

We stopped in here on our travels and enjoyed some very tasty toasties. The decor is a wee bit tired but the service was quick and friendly and we had no complaints about the food whatsoever

We had a late lunch here after stopping of the visit friends nearby, I thought the service was OK but could have been better. The food was ordered at the table and brought to us. I just had a roll and fried egg and a...

Lovely to be out and about and very well looked after . Felt safe and staff were working very hard . Great service and lovely lunch.

Excellent soup and sandwich, friendly service, good coffee and a lovely walk along the river. We had driven a long way down very twisty roads to this delightful little town and the cafe did not disappoint. Good car parking as well.

My husband and I have recently started to use this cafe because it is dog friendly. On our last visit we had the gluten free lasagne which came with chips and salad.We both enjoyed it and it was reasonably priced.Although the menu doesn't mention it,...

The way the boss speaks to his customers is disgusting waited over 45 minutes for food but yet other customers came in and got their food before us and then to be told there was none of what we ordered and then we said that...

Delicious! Had mushroom soup starter and haggis & cheese panini. Just good honest tasty grub and a decent coffee. Can't ask for much more really. Recommended 👍

Rendezvoused here to meet a friend who’s just moved into the area. It’s all on the level, with its own section of car park outside. Good toilets. It’s a bit dark inside despite the big windows but that’s down to the dark tables and dark...

Food and the service were excellent very helpful and lots of information on area and great gift shop

Love coming here, spacious for the pram, and friendly staff, and excellent coffee and cake. Meet here reagularly with friends

Stopped here when I arrived in Newton Stewart. Very friendly staff welcoming you in. Dog friendly. Fantastic food.

Having parked the car at the riverside we went for a walk up the town. On the way back we noticed the cafe/tourist information in the corner.Good thing is their very dog friendly. As it was a nice day we decided to sit outside. We ordered our drinks and scones. Lovely scones and very reasonable priced. The cafe was quite steady and the public toilets only yards away.

Just had a lovely lunch here with our 2 dogs Had the pensioners 2 course special Very tasty soup and lovely macaroni all homemade Great service very friendly staff and dogs allowed inside on a wet day Just Perfect

Lots of choice. We had the burger deal. It was delicious and great value for money. Locals seem to eat here, which is always a good sign. Staff were lovely and friendly.

Lovely lunch a large selection on the menu all food ordered tasted great. Dogs are allowed in which was a must for us during our family holiday. Definitely be visiting again during our stay. Great value for money. Staff are very friendly, nice well presented restaurant.

Wouldn't recommend. Wasn't the cleanest inside and we waited an absolute age for greasy food. Wouldn't return.

We always pop in here if we are in the area, very reasonable, good food and always lovely staff. Doesn’t look much from outside but don’t be put off it’s worth going in

Excellent service and food great atmosphere my daughters favourite place to eat the burgers are awsome the chipotle burger is the best if you like some heat. Great chips and cakes and so much choice.

Stoped for lunch service is brilliant but when busy be prepared to wait, it’s worth waiting fo. My wife had a veggie burger I had a plain burger, this is not fast food but good food worth waiting for. Been back since for sandwiches and cake. Will be going again.

A very friendly cafe well used by the locals and visitors alike. Very extensive menu of good traditional home cooking. Lots of great deals on drinks, cakes and meals. Staff very friendly and helpful. Coffee really great. Have eaten there in the last ( had taties, heels and mince) and really enjoyed it. Intend to return soon to sample the menu again.

Had a fab coffee (with a free piece of home made fudge) along with a gluten free toastie and salad. Was very tasty and great price.

Beautiful food served in a excellent visitor centre. Gift shop was wonderful. Just watch out for all the ducks when parking.

Good location by the river and the free car park. Alongside a Sainsbury's and an Aldi. Plenty of choice. The meal was good and at a good price. The chap serving the tables (owner?) was a great laugh. Loads of banter. All taken in good spirit. On leaving, I had to buy a slice of fantastic fruit cake. Loads of icing and marzipan. Just as I like it.

We were so glad we decided to pop in and ask if we could have vegetarian breakfast. The staff were very friendly and welcoming and made it a relaxed place to eat. They do great vegetarian food, lovely coffee and tea, and everything is very reasonable. Plus being a very dog friendly centre made it easy for us.

If you are in Newton Stewart don’t pass this place by without trying it. Service is great, scones are wonderful, and coffee and tea are really good. Plain but interesting menu available. Prices are much lower than I expected given the quality of the food. Plus, a major and free car park on (literally) their doorstep. Definitely recommended.

On a day trip out, hungry and cold. Pulled into car park after seeing sign for cafe. Outside the establishment looked poor and we thought not what we wanted. However being disabled we coud not walk much further so took the risk and went inside.

Have tried to eat here a few times before but were always at the wrong time and it was closed. This time we found it open and enjoyed a sandwich, scone and coffees.

Poped in saturday for a drink after house hunting was a really lovely place cant wait to move to the village.

A lovely lunch time meal, and great you can take your dog in. Very helpful staff and a great choice. My husband had a burger , and said it was one of the best he had ever tasted. I had the soup and a sandwich which was delicious.

Cracking food friendly staff a delightful to visit for locals and visitors alike disabled friendly has a gift shop as well

The absolute epitome of Scottish hospitality.

Great deals at lunchtime. Super menu choice and served by froendly happy staff. We visited twice during our week's stay.Try the burgers

Lovely food, coffee brilliant, excellent service. Have been to this café several times previously. It has been a while since we were last there but disappointed on this occasion because there was too much "Scottish heritage" around. I know it's a visitor centre now as well as a café and presumably therefore aimed at the tourist industry... but as an English person who has lived in Scotland for over sixteen years, what appeared to be a lean towards Nationalism made me feel uncomfortable to say the least. This café used to have a relaxed atmosphere... sadly that has now gone. I'm not suggesting that Scottish heritage shouldn't be promoted but there is a time and a place and while people are trying to relax over a meal or even just a coffee and cake is neither the time nor the place; a little more subtlety wouldn't come amiss! I will not be returning. I would have given the place 5 stars but as atmosphere is so important, for the above reason, I have only given them 2 stars.

I had the Spicy Parsnip Soup followed by a Maccy Cheese with chips & garlic bread. Lots of it, really nice and good value. I was very hungry when I went in and I couldn't finish it all, so portion sizes are generous. The dog was allowed in too and she made a few friends whilst there.

We visited the town and in search of lunch and a coffee this was the first place we came to from the main car park.

It is convenient to the car park. Nothing very special. The proprietor or his son seem to be in permanent position at the end of the counter not doing very much, but being off putting.

Just what we wanted - a good all day breakfast for my husband and macaroni cheese for me. It was very cheesy and hot and there was not a drop of fat to be seen on my husband's plate. Great coffee as well and good, friendly service. We were all (westie included) made to feel very welcome by the locals and staff alike. We will be going again very soon.

Very friendly, good food and most importantly, the dog was welcome too. Definitely a place we will be going back to again.

We called in for a bite of lunch and ended up having their obviously freshly baked fruit scones. These were lovely and large too. I requested raspberry jam in place of the strawberry which was served and the waitress found it no trouble to change this for me. We were also given plenty of butter and spread which is not always the case and a complimentary piece of fudge. Good quality tea and coffee too. Lovely lunch lovely staff!

We can always rely on the Belted Galloway for great haggis, neeps and tattles and also the puff pastry topped pie. It’s simple and welll cooked. Yum!

Good food and friendly service. I hope to go back one day. Highly reccomend. I want to try other items on the menu.

What more could you wish for? Superb food, great vibe, music not blaring, plus excellent staff. It was the perfect spot on a damp day. The soup was outstanding.

Visited this center while in Castle Douglas and it was worth the visit. It contains artifacts from the area's history and with tartan on display, it truly is a great Scottish experience. We were met by the smiling Kacie who looked after us so well. Her people skills are very evident. She was always on the go, hoovering, taking orders and being a great ambassador for the company. She was assisted by Holly who was always smiling.It is a great place to visit. Will be back for sure.

Stopped here for coffees while visiting the area. Were made very welcome by staff, coffee was good and we were able to sit outside in the sunshine.

This is the second year we have visited and the scones were just as good. They made us and the dog very welcome and with friendly staff it was a pleasure to visit.

We stopped here for lunch a couple of days ago. First impressions weren't great as we walked towards it. When we got in it was pretty busy, which is always a good sign.

Food good and moderately priced, the setting is fine but perhaps in need of a spruce up. But what makes this place special is the staff. Been here a few times in last year - all days and hours - and receive a consistently warm and genuine welcome. Service really excellent and food always piping hot. Thanks.

We have visited Newton Stewart twice and both times have had a great lunch at the Belted Galloway. The scones are home made and delicious. The staff are very friendly and helpful. One of the reasons we sourced this place you are allowed to bring in your dogs and our cocker spaniel goes everywhere with us. Cannot fault this place and will definitely be returning.

We called here as we arrived in Newton Stewart to go to the Supermarket, but saw this place and decided to visit. Food was tasty and well presented and reasonably priced. We liked it as we have 2dogs and they were immediately made welcome. The staff were friendly and attentive without being overbearing. A nice little gift shop as well.

Situated on the main car park beside the river Cree the building used to be the old health centre there are several facilities and this is a place where local groups meet

We had lunch there while visiting the area. Great choice of food even for me on a gluten free diet. Food was cooked to order so was very fresh. Service was excellent the waitress very knowledgeable about what was in the food. Would recommend

We often break our journey along the Solway at the Belted Galloway. The staff are always welcoming and friendly and the tea/coffee delicious. A reliable refreshment stop.

Had a couple of visits here while on holiday the scones are excellent staff friendly and helpful.the prices are great to excellent value for the money. Will definitely be back when we holiday in the area again

Excellent food as had two lunches there whilst on our break. Staff very friendly and we were able to take our dog which was great.

The Beltie galloway is my favourite place in Newton Stewart to eat. The service is very fast and delivered with a smile! The food is your average food but very tasty . The scones are highly recommended . Lovely flavours, orange and chocolate, raspberry and cranberry to name a few. The atmoshere is always a nice one. You can bring your children, pram, scooter if disabled , and is very dog friendly . Really a place for everyone. The beltie also has rooms to book for groups etc. You won’t be disappointed .

Whilst on holiday in Galloway we stumbled upon this place whilst looking for a supermarket. We popped in for lunch and the place really exceeded expectations. The staff were very welcoming and warm and the food was lovely. Couldn't have asked for more. So nice in fact that we stopped in again before we returned home.

Knew the car park from previous visits, but the centre, mostly a cafe and shop, was new to us. Called in for lunch and was pleased with friendly welcome and service. Appears to be used by locals as well as visitors,

Called in for a warm drink after a visit to Newton Stewart during storm Ophelia, friendly welcome and a good menu if wanted we just settled for the scones which came with jam a piece of fudge, lovely. Also contained a small shop selling Scottish and local gifts. Cannot miss as next to Riverside carpark

Was a great little find on our recent holiday in Newton Stewart with the dog. Makes life so much easier when you find dog friendly establishments. We visited there twice. The staff were excellent. Food choice was great as there was something for everybody. Comfortable...

Visited several times during our stay in the area. Well recommended to anyone especially dog owners as it's very canine friendly! Good range of tasty meals available at sensible prices. Staff extremely friendly.

Stopped for a flat white and a sandwich. Lovely welcoming place, traditional Scottish music playing and very friendly people. Dog...

8 of us and our dog visited for lunch, the food was excellent and great choice of meals or snacks, very dog friendly and the staff were very attentive and friendly. This is the second time we have been and wouldn't hesitate to go again.

Greeted with friendly staff,good menu and pleasant surroundings.Food was very good as was the service.Seemed popular with both locals and tourists.

The staff in this visitor center were very friendly and we were made to feel very welcome. Food was great and reasonably priced too, no frills just honest food in a cafe style.

Excellent on every account I could not fault the food or staff .I couldn't believe how cheap it was for 4 of us

Visited here a few times during our holiday. Always a warm welcome excellent food and dog friendly. Doesn't look too exciting from the outside but don't be put off. Popular with locals and visitors.

Stopped here for some lunch. Very welcoming and pet friendly. Food was fantastic nice sizes and reasonably priced.

You're always guaranteed a friendly welcome at the Belted Galloway as is your 4 legged friend, the food is always cooked fresh to order, they have an extensive range of tasty, cafe staples, cakes, scones etc. There are a number of food deals the Starter & Main Course (served between 12&2) for £10.95 being excellent value for money, portion sizes are huge & the food is delicious. They have a lovely gift shop & a number of tourist pamphlets.

A great Cafe style place. Lovely fish and chips. Also great scones! Can't understand the query about where's the beef lol!

Popped in a couple of times with our dog for a much needed rest after long walks. Friendly staff and lovely coffee served with fudge.

plenty of parking once you know where to find it, good food, good service and decent prices. Highly recommended for a nice lunch.

I go there with my sister in law most Friday's and I find the food is great only yo be surpassed by the service.

We came across this cafe a while ago but didn't try it because of other good places to eat close bye. A hot sunny day forced us to look for somewhere that is dog friendly and this certainly is. We walked in, took a seat and were greeted by a friendly smile and a treat for our dog. Initial chatter over we browsed the menu which whilst not too exhaustive provides plenty of selection for a quick cuppa, light bite or full meal. Waiting time was reasonable even though it was fairly busy, when the meals arrived we were pleased with our choices and soon had empty plates. After we had eaten we browsed the information, historical and topical then browsed the small gift shop. Overall a pleasant experience and wholesome food. I am sure the dog didn't want to leave either!!

In Newton Stewart on Sunday, went to the shop just to see what time that were opening tomorrow, just to meet one of their staff in the car park, just getting out of their van. I asked if I could buy Belted Galloway beef there, and he said no it's just a cafe. Asked him where I could buy it and he recommended a butcher in Castle Douglas.Want to this butcher on Tuesday and they do not sell Belted Galloway Beef, sold lovely meat but definitely not Belted Galloway. Not impressed, why on earth would he give us bum information like that ?

I wasn't very enthusiastic about eating here, although it got two ticks for a good name and being dog friendly. It looks like a run of the mill tourist cafe, but it was great. It was very busy but the service was slick and friendly, the food came fast and was really good. My husband had a huge pie and i had a very nice veg soup. Would definitely recommend.

Great centre for all your tourist information needs, has cafe/restaurant & shop,toiletsStaff extremely helpful & friendly.Dog friendly & has disabled access with sufficient parking outside.Also free wifi available.Closed on Sundays.

We visited the cafe, at The Belted Galloway Visitor Centre, as it had easy access, for my father, who is disabled. From the outside, the building didn't look very inspiring, but we decided to give it a try. Having ordered coffee's and cakes all round, we found that the lady who was serving, was exceptionally friendly, and helpful. When our food and drinks arrived, they were absolutely delicious.I couldn't recommend this place more, and we will make a point of returning, when we are next in the area.

Not much time because it was at the end of the day but the person in a shop was very nice and helpful very friendly towards his dog you give him some treats have got a fridge magnet but I do think that the shop should be set out a bit better so you can see the goods to their advantage

This is a lovely gem tucked at the bottom of a hill near the river. Quite big inside and tables outside, staff very pleasant order at counter they bring food to you and you pay at the end. We had cake and coffee which was very well presented and the cake was lovely and moist. The menu is good and it looked like they were good portions and there is a separate price sheet for pensioners with a good range of food on it. This is a licensed restaraunt with a nice selection of wines and beers. It is also a dog friendly establishment. While you are waiting for your food there is plenty to look at on the walls with pictures of things to see and do in the surrounding area.