The South Rhins covers the parishes of Stoneykirk and Kirkmaiden, which form the southern half of the Rhins of Galloway. The parishes are on the extreme Southwest corner of Scotland with the southernmost point being the Mull of Galloway.

The area starts a few miles south of Stranraer, which is approached from the north and east by two main routes which are links to the ferry terminals at Stranraer and Cairnryan.

It is a coastal area with a variety of coastal features – comprising many large sandy beaches on the east of the peninsula, while the west is predominantly cliffs with some sandy bays.

The delightful coastline boasts many pretty little ports like Port Logan and Drummore, with stunning cliff top views from the nearby Mull of Galloway, across to the Isle of Man and the Irish coast.

Land rises from sea level to 180 metres.

There are five villages: Stoneykirk, Sandhead and Ardwell in Stoneykirk parish and Drummore and Port Logan in the Kirkmaiden parish to the south.

Agriculture is the major provider of employment, but changes in the last 60 years have led to a decline in numbers employed which has also been mirrored in an overall population decline in the two parishes.

Tourism is now a significant part of the economy and is the other main employer. The rest of the economy is mainly made up of small businesses in the service and retail sector with small retail outlets in most of the villages.

Many other residents of the area travel to work in and around Stranrae.

The lack of industry and manufacturing has kept the area unspoilt and unpolluted, which adds to its attraction for both wildlife and visitor alike. It is an area steeped in history – the Kirkmadrine stones are among the oldest Christian artifacts in Scotland and it has a rich environment, which benefits from the warmth of the passing Gulf Stream. Cabbage palms, tree fern and other fascinating plants from the South Seas grow abundantly in the gardens of Ardwell and Port Logan.