South West Scotland Dry Stone Walling Association

Welcome to the website of the South West Scotland Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain.

Whether you are interested in learning how to build a drystane dyke (dry stone wall), trying to find a professional dyker or are just interested in conserving these vital features of our landscape, we hope you will find what you are looking for. If not, please let us know, as we are always trying to improve our site.

Our 2-day courses are ideal for anyone who would like to 'have a go', either because they have a wall that needs rebuilding or because they are considering walling as a hobby or a new career option.

If, after the course, you decide that the subject is of interest to you, you may wish to join the group and attend practice meets where you can expand your knowledge. Practice Meets are free of charge to members of the Branch.

As part of the DSWA celebrations for its 40th birthday in 2008, the branch was involved in a project at the Mill on the Fleet, Gatehouse of Fleet. The aim was to construct a wall depicting the various styles to be found in the area - Double, Single and Galloway. The wall was constructed with whinstone and granite boulders and was curved with a lunky near one end and incorporated a seat at the other.

The branch also held an open dyking competition, later in the year, as part of the birthday celebrations and photos from that event are in the Gallery.