best places to visit dumfries and galloway

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15 places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

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There are so many gorgeous places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway, from cute towns and villages to good old National Trust places to stunning beaches. I’ve put some into a list here to share my favourites with my readers: I know a lot of you love this area as much as I do. I may be biased, because all my childhood holidays were there so I know it really well, but Scotland’s most southerly area really is an underrated part of bonny Scotland. Dumfries and Galloway is often overlooked and I don’t know many people who have visited. Yeah, it might not have the dramatic landscape of the Highlands or the bustle of the big Scottish cities, but it has some of the prettiest towns and coastlines I’ve ever seen.

Obvs I’m only including places I know well and can definitely recommend personally in this list, but there are loads more if you want to do some research – try Visit Scotland  or Visit South West Scotland . In fact, writing about all my favourite Dumfries and Galloway places that I know so well has only made me realise how much other stuff there is in the area that I’ve never even been to. Plenty for next time I suppose.

Anyway, pour yourself a wee dram and read on for some fantastic places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway…

Please note that this post is from 2017 and needs deleting and rewriting as it’s from before I knew how to blog/write. I’m in the process of rewriting and republishing all my older posts for 2022. I’d really like to re-do this one to become 30 places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway …. Watch this space!

Lovely places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

1. kirkcudbright: for a longer visit to the artists’ town.

Kirkcudbright is my personal favourite place in Dumfries and Galloway. It’s got everything you could ask for in a town: a harbour, a ridiculous amount of art and art galleries, loads of amazing places to eat and drink, and most importantly, so many cute cottages and hidden alleyways bursting with flowers. Known as the artists’ town of Scotland, it’s the perfect place to stay in the area and also a brilliant base for day trips everywhere else. You can’t really do it all in a day, so if you don’t stay over in Kirkcudbright, make sure you plan plenty of time there or multiple days out there. You’ll need it, if only to fit in all the eating potentials.

Read more: Here’s my absolutely HUGE Kirkcudbright travel guide for more on this absolute gem. I’d like to say I’m a bit of a Kirkcudbright connoisseur so there are lots of restaurant/pub and shop tips in there…

Where to stay: For hotels ,  The Selkirk Arms or the Kirkcudbright Bay Hotel . For self-catering , it’s tricky to find something the right size just for two, but for a larger group there’s The Yellow Door  or  3 Mews Lane .

2. Kippford and Rockcliffe: for the best coastal walk in Scotland

The two lovely villages of Kippford and Rockcliffe are joined by what can only be described as the best coastal walk in Scotland . Since I first blogged about this, I’ve not had a single person disagree with that statement. So it must be true, right?! And even if you don’t like walking, you’ll like this walk because it has a whole stretch of road where you can spot little beasts made of driftwood and stones with eyes. And if that isn’t your idea of a good day out, we can’t be friends.

Read more: Intrigued? Read my post on a coastal walk from Rockcliffe to Kippford for more. I’m planning on updating it soon as I recently did the walk when all the autumnal foliage was out and my photos are glorious.

Where to stay: Rockcliffe and Kippford are very small, so might not be the best places to base yourself for a visit in the area. However, Kirkcudbright, Castle Douglas and Gatehouse of Fleet are all within easy reach and have more eating/staying options.

3. Castle Douglas: for a day of eating and drinking in the foodie town of Dumfries and Galloway

The whole point of a holiday is to overeat, right? Right. Well, the food capital of Dumfries and Galloway is this little number, Castle Douglas . Not just local food either, but also local beer. You can have a freshly brewed pint at the local brewery after stuffing your face at one of the many eateries. Oh and spending all your holiday spends on beautiful homewares in all the local independent boutiques. Because shopping is the second most important thing after food.

Read more: Thirsty and/or hungry? Read my post on Castle Douglas for a full guide to the town.

Where to stay: For a hotel , have a look at The Market Inn Hotel. For a B&B , check out  Douglas House . And i f you’re travelling in a group/family and want a holiday home , I like the look of  The Coop .

4. Gatehouse of Fleet: for a relaxing day in a tranquil mill town

If you’re the kind of person who likes a nice sit down at a beautiful old mill with some cake and a cup of tea (aka anyone over 60, or me), a visit to the former mill town of Gatehouse of Fleet is going to be right up your street. It has an award-winning visitor centre (yes, that is a thing) that has a cafe looking out onto this view. And it serves amazing cakes.

Read more: If you like the sound of mills and cakes, read my post on Gatehouse of Fleet  for more.

Where to stay:  If you want a  hotel , there’s the Ship Inn . If you want  self-catering for a group, there’s  79 Laurel Bank , or a bit further out (only 10 mins by car), the Sea View Snugs at Laggan is great for couples.

5. Carrick Bay: for discovering a secret, deserted beach

There are so many good beaches around Dumfries and Galloway. My personal favourites are Rockcliffe and Kippford because they’re my childhood memories and I’m all about living in the past.

However, from an unbiased perspective, you’re not going to be able to beat Carrick Bay. Not only is it an absolute beaut, it’s also usually completely deserted so you can have the whole place to yourself.

What’s better than a beautiful beach? A beautiful beach with no other people on it. Other people are horrendous.

Read more: Fancy escaping people on this dream beach? Read my post on Carrick Bay: a hidden beach for more.

Where to stay: Gatehouse of Fleet is your best bet for a hotel/B&B near Carrick Shore.

6. Portpatrick: for clifftop walks

Portpatrick is a charming coastal village on the Rhins of Galloway peninsula in South West Scotland. It’s full of lovely pastel-coloured buildings and has a picture-perfect bay, set against a backdrop of rugged scenery and stunning views. It has its own lighthouse and it’s only a 40-minute drive from the big daddy of Scottish lighthouses, the Mull of Galloway. It’s also t’s right on the famous Southern Upland Way, meaning it’s great for clifftop walks before heading for a cosy pub meal in the harbour and a mooch around the town. Bliss. 

Read more: If this sounds up your street, read my full guide to Portpatrick .

Where to stay: For a hotel , the Mount Stewart Hotel  or the Harbour House Hotel . If you’re after self-catering accommodation , the Fairways Apartment .

7. Logan Botanic Gardens – a treat for anyone into plants and gardening

I tend to visit botanic gardens in every city I go to in Europe, and this is up there with the best. If you visit in summer, look out for all the newts in the ponds. Very cute. They also have the BEST scones in the café (and I am a seasoned pro at eating scones). Check their official site  for opening times; it’s £8 to get in.

8. Sweetheart Abbey, New Abbey: for some macabre romantic history

Have you heard the one about the 13th-century woman who carried her dead husband’s embalmed heart around with her in a small box and then took gothic romance to a whole new level by building an actual abbey in his memory?

If you go to Sweetheart Abbey, you’ll be able to say you’ve not only heard about that extreme behaviour, but you’ve witnessed the result of it. You can do this while eating a 10/10 scone and looking at the very beautiful red ruin set in a stunning landscape.

Read more: Fancy seeing the beautiful ruin? Read my post on Sweetheart Abbey for more.

9. Threave Gardens: for straddling a Belted Galloway cow, obviously

Did you read that title? You can straddle a local Belted Galloway cow model. There’s me doing it as proof. I mean, I’ll just leave it at that because what more could you possibly want to know? You’re probably already booking your trip as we speak. There are also lovely gardens for when you’ve finished with the cows.

Read more: I cover Threave more fully in my post on Castle Douglas .

Where to stay: Castle Douglas is a great base to get to Threave Gardens from. If you want a hotel , have a look at The Market Inn Hotel. For a B&B , check out  Douglas House . And i f you’re travelling in a group/family and want a holiday home , I like the look of  The Coop .

10. Mossyard beach: for more beautiful beach scenery

Another beach? Oh go on then. You can never have too many beaches, especially when they’re as good as the beaches in Dumfries and Galloway are. Mossyard is an absolute stunner and quite literally off the beaten track.

Read more: My post on Gatehouse of Fleet covers more about Mossyard.

Where to stay: Gatehouse of Fleet is handy for Mossyard. If you want a hotel , there’s the Ship Inn . If you want  self-catering for a group, there’s  79 Laurel Bank , or a bit further out (only 10 mins by car), the Sea View Snugs at Laggan is great for couples.

11. Wigtown: one for the book lovers

As book lovers will know, Wigtown is Scotland’s official National Book Town. Most visitors to Wigtown are (naturally!) book lovers, many of whom flock to its annual book festival. But Wigtown is also known for being the gateway to The Machars, a peninsula full of pretty villages and excellent coastal scenery, and is worth a visit even when the festival isn’t on. 

Read more: I have a full guide to wonderful wee Wigtown .

Where to stay: For a hotel/guesthouse ,  Hillcrest House . For a B&B , have a look at Craigmount. And if you’re after self-catering , the aptly named  Readers Retreat .

12. The Mull of Galloway and its famous lighthouse – the ultimate Scottish lighthouse!

The views are undeniably spectacular and you can spot lots of seabirds while you’re at it (there’s an RSPB Centre there). Make sure you leave room for a cake from Gallie Craig, Scotland`s most southerly café, right on the cliff’s edge. Apparently, the lighthouse now has the only working foghorn on mainland Scotland. Toot toot.

13. The Isle of Whithorn

The Isle of Whithorn is a little village with a pretty harbour where you can see some fantastic sunsets. The harbour in the village is surrounded by colourful Georgian houses. Just around the corner on the headland, you’ll find the small white chapel of St Ninian. This dates back to the 1300s and was built for all the pilgrims who used to land in the village on their way to St Ninian’s shrine at Whithorn. They were definitely also drawn in by the lovely local pub.. .

Read more: Intrigued? I cover the Isle of Whithorn and its gorgeous pub more fully in my guide to wonderful wee Wigtown .

Where to stay: Wigtown would be a good base nearby.

14. Castle Kennedy Gardens 

This is an old castle with a walled garden and lots of beautiful forests, lochs and land you can walk around. You can spend a good half a day here and there’s also a good tearoom. It’s £6.50 to get in; check the official website  for opening times. I visited in August and it was lovely but apparently spring is the time to go because they have a whopping display of rhododendrons. 

15. Garlieston: one for military history buffs

Garlieston is a tiny, planned village with a small but picturesque harbour, a pretty garden along its waterfront, and a cosy pub to hunker down in with a pint. The village is very small and will only take you 10 minutes to wander through, but it’s a nice place to stop off if you’re in the area. It’s also known for some interesting military history…

Read more: Intrigued? I cover Garlieston more fully in my guide to wonderful wee Wigtown .

Places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland: useful information

How to get there.

Sadly, I break my no-driving rule when it comes to a trip to Dumfries and Galloway. It can be done by train to Dumfries, but to get the most out of it, you’ll be best off with a car. Especially if you want to whiz around all these places with ease.

As I’ve said in my other posts in my little Dumfries and Galloway series, nowhere gets too heaving with tourists. You can have entire beaches to yourself sometimes. But if you want a bit more hustle and bustle, there are the towns of Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas where you can have food and drink with an acceptable number of other people around.

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31 comments.

Wonderful photos and I’m looking forward to visiting some of the places you’ve mentioned that I’ve yet to see.

Thanks very much. Hope you enjoy your stay!

I think you have covered the Solway pretty well but what about the Rhines of Galloway?

Castle Kennedy gardens; Port Logan gardens and fish pond; Port Patrick for food and shopping; Sandhead beach; the Mull of Galloway RSPB reserve and most southerly point in Scotland. Knockingham lodge. Port William. etc etc.

Just my thoughts on what I agree with you is an much over looked part of Scotland.

I think I did pretty well for 4 days there! But yes there’s loads of places I need to see – it’s too big to cover in one go. Especially want to go to the Mull of Galloway because you can see it from the Isle of Man which is somewhere else we know well and I like the connection!

Please come east in Dumfries and Galloway next time you are here. Experience the beautiful countryside, arty shops and galleries, Common Riding or Muckle Toon Adventure Festival in Langholm, have a spiritual visit to Samye Ling or wander round the lovely park and shops in Moffat. We have lots to offer too.

I know Moffat! Yes there’s loads to the east and west that you need to do multiple holidays for. Cheers for the tips!

Love this post! I went to Dumfries & Galloway for the first time in August to hike Grey Mare’s Tail (highly recommended) but definitely want to explore more! Thanks for sharing!!

Thanks Kathi!

Wonderful photos! Once my hubby paases his driving test we are planning a Scotland road trip (all part of my dastardly plan to get him to agree to move there!) So I’m saving this for future reference!

Brilliant! I want to move there too.

Spotting little beasts made of driftwood and stones with eyes is totally my idea of a good day out! In fact I have numerous pet rocks at home that I’ve found on various beaches around the world 🙂

Do your pet rocks have eyes? I really want to make some!

I love Scotland so much <3

Hi Caroline,

Each spot looks so darn cool. I’d have to stop by each of these places to genuinely enjoy the region.

So awesome you vacationed there as a child. I vacationed at the less prestigious and charming NJ shore but made up for it over the past 6 years.

I still need to get to Scotland, or Europe for that matter. For the authentic feel of the place and for these brilliant sites.

Thanks for sharing.

Hello, thanks for the comment! I’m not sure anyone has ever described D&G as ‘darn cool’! Hope you get to visit Scotland one day.

You should call it Galloway not Dumfries and Galloway as once again the East of the region has been forgotten about. I live in Langholm and we feel so neglected as every guide that comes about on D & G stops at Dumfries. This area has its own attractions but we really should be in The Borders region as the A75 route from Gretna to Stranraer is promoted for tourism and Eskdale is of no interest.

This isn’t a ‘guide’. It’s a summary of four days I spent staying in Kirkcudbright. I didn’t have time to go anywhere else, East or West. It’s rather a large area.

I mention that these are the places I know well and visited this time and that there are loads of other places I’ve been before and haven’t mentioned and even more that I’ve not visited yet – but I’m sure you didn’t bother to read that before venting your bitchy comment eh? 😀

Funny isn’t it that those of us who live in the west of the region think that the east gets all the promotion and everything is Dumfries-centric, but that really is an issue to take up elsewhere isn’t it?! Great blog – thanks for highlighting the area – I have live in Wigtown for 15 years now and I love it here, so much to see and do and the region as a whole is so often overlooked in the mad rush north!

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.

My wife and I loved dalbeattie (where we had a static) we actually packed up our suitcases and everything else and moved from Leyland Lancashire and are now living permanently in Ecclefechan which is another place to visit for your followers which is Carlyles birth place and famous for its “ECCLEFECHAN TARTS” I’ll leave that to your imagination.

Cinnamon and raisins are not for me. But I assume there’s more going on there than just the tarts!

it’s my dream tour and very soon it would be in reality. My husband planning for us to go Scotland together. the experiencing you mentioned that would be very helpful for us.

I’m quite impressed that Galloway is anyone’s dream tour haha! It is a lovely area though. Hope you have a good time!

We are planning to go to Dumfries & Galloway for the first time in September so it was great to stumble across your blog on the internet. Lovely photos and really helpful for putting together an itinerary – especially the tips about cafes, always my priority! Thank you

Oh brilliant, so glad it was helpful. Let me know how your trip goes and enjoy all the cafés – always a priority for me too! x

Just booked a weeks holiday in Port O’Warren after reading your blog. Hoping to visit all your recommendations. Great blog. x

Thank you Helen, that’s so exciting to hear. Hope you have a good time! x

Really helpful, thanks, but no mention of Stranraer as a base. What’s it like?

I wouldn’t recommend Stranraer – it’s not somewhere I’d want to stay. And it wouldn’t work well as a base for seeing many of the places listed here. Kirkcudbright is my usual choice to stay.

Oh beautiful blog! I came first on your circus lane post by searching for it and from there i am here now. Both the posts are very informative and helpful. I love Edinburgh! Please can you tell me the exact location of the first picture of this post on google map as you did for circus lane in that post? Kind regards, kasana.

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13 Towns and Villages in Dumfries and Galloway To Visit

Dumfries and Galloway have charming towns and villages. This post lists the best 13 towns and villages in Dumfries and Galloway to visit. 

The southwest region of Scotland is often described as ‘Scotland in Miniature’. The region is rich in cultural heritage, outstanding scenery, rolling farmland and a stunning coastline. 

Also, a part of Dumfries and Galloway has been designated by UNESCO as a “biosphere reserve”. The landscape in Dumfries and Galloway inspired Robert Burns, who lived in the area more than 200 years ago. 

The area has mild climates, luxurious estates, sailing villages, quaint cottages and RSPB reserves. Visiting one of the towns and villages in Dumfries and Galloway is a great way to spend a day. 

Dumfries is a historic medieval town located on the River Nith with flows southwards to the Solway Firth. Long ago, in the 12th century, this was the main centre for the Dumfries and Galloway region. 

There is a variety of colourful houses to look at in the town which dates back to the 15th century. There is a mid steeple in the centre of town, which dates back to the 18th century and was used as a courtroom and prison. 

The town is well known for being where Robert Burns lived in the last few years of his life. There is a statue of Robert Burns overlooking the town’s High Street.

Robert Burns is now a fascinating museum . Also, there is a mausoleum that marks where the grave is, and at the Globe Inn, you can sit in his favourite chair by the fireplace.

For history buffs and curious minds head to Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura where you can learn about the history of the area. The museum is set in an 18th-century windmill and there are stunning views on offer across the countryside. 

You can learn about aircraft history at the Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum. The museum is based inside an old World War II airfield and has an impressive collection of civil and military aircraft.

Make sure to visit the red sandstone castle ruin called Caerlaverock Castle. The stunning fortress is set on a moat and you can learn about the castle’s turbulent history. 

In addition, you can visit the ruined 13th-century abbey called Sweetheart Abbey. Lady Devorgilla founded the abbey as a tribute to her beloved husband, John Balliol.

Moreover, you can visit the ruins of Lincluden Collegiate Church. Crichton Memorial Church is a great example of ecclesiastical architecture in Southern Scotland.

Things to do in Dumfries

• Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura
• Robert Burns House
• Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum
• Caerlaverock Castle
• Sweetheart Abbey
• Deverogilla Bridge
• Crichton Memorial Church
• Burns Mausoleum 
• Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust

Stranraer 

Stranraer is an old settlement which dates back to the 16th century. The town is located at the head of Loch Ryan and the main industry in the 18th and 19th centuries was shipbuilding.

Nowadays, Stranraer is the gateway to the Rhinns of Galloway and is a busy ferry departure service to Northern Ireland. Stranraer is known as ‘The Toon’ and is Dumfries and Galloway’s second-largest town. 

In the old town hall is Stranraer Museum. On the main street is one of Stranraer’s main attractions – the 16th-century Castle of St John. 

The Castle Kennedy Gardens are located three miles east of Stranraer. Castle Kennedy is one of the most gorgeous castles in Dumfries and Galloway .

Also, you can pay a visit to Logan Botanic Garden which is located 13 miles from Stranraer. The gardens have some lovely exotic ferns, palms and a wonderful walled garden. 

Things to do in Stranraer

• Stranraer Garden
• Castle Kennedy Gardens 
• Logan Botanic Garden

Dalbeatie is a small village which contains solid houses built of grey granite. The settlement is known as ‘ Granite Town ’ and sits in the Urr Valley, approximately 15 miles from Dumfries. 

Dalbeatie has been exporting grey granite since the 19th century. Nowadays, its quarry only produces granite chips for roads.

The town is a lovely place to base yourself for exploring the Colvend Coast. There is a good selection of castles, gardens, nature walks and places to go for fishing, golfing and biking.

Dalbeatie Forest is located on the outskirts of Dalbeatie. This is where you will find the internationally famous 7stanes Mountain Bike Trail which is great for adrenaline seekers.

Things to do in Dalbeatie

• Dalbeatie Forest
• Buittle Castle
• 7stanes Mountain Bike Trail

Kirkcudbright

Kirkcudbright has a picturesque harbour and is a haven for small fishing boats. Medieval, Georgian, and Victorian buildings, pastel-coloured houses and numerous flowerbeds line the streets in Kirkcudbright. 

In the centre of town, you will find the forbidding ruins of the 16th-century tower house MacLellan’s Castle. Nearby is Broughton House, an impressive Georgian townhouse with some lovely Japanese Gardens.

Kirkcudbright is known as a centre for craft workers and artists. Tolbooth Art Centre tells stories of Kirkcubright’s artists’ colony.

The Stewarty Museum is a 19th-century museum filled with local social artefacts and natural history exhibits.

Dundrennan Abbey is a 12th-century ruin located southwest of Kirkcudbright. This is believed to be where Mary Queen of Scots spent her last night in Scotland.

Things to do in Kirkcudbright

• MacLellan’s Castle
• Tolbooth Art Centre
• Stewarty Museum
• Harbour Cottage Gallery
• Dundrennan Abbey

Annan is located on the east side of River Annan and was first established as a riverport in the 14th century. In the 19th century, shipbuilding, engineering and whisky distilling were the main industries. 

Later in the 20th century, the knitwear and pharmaceutical industry began to grow. Visitors can wander through the town and view the large red sandstone buildings that line the main street.

Devil’s Porridge is a museum located a 10-minute drive from Annan. The story of how Devil’s Porridge, an explosive is made in the HM Factory Gretna, the greatest munitions factory on earth in World War I.

Things to do in Annan

• Devils Porridge
• Annan Museum

Castle Douglas

Castle Douglas is a planned late 18th century located in the Glenkens in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway. It is well known for the good quality food and drink that is enjoyed here.

Nearby, Carlingwark Loch is dotted with islands. This is the perfect place to enjoy boating and picnicking. 

Threave Castle is a ruined 14th-century castle located on an island on the River Dee. Threave House and Gardens is a lovely garden cared for by the National Trust for Scotland.

Finally, visitors can head to Threave Wildfowl Refuge which is nearby. This is an important place for wintering wildfowl, where visitors may watch the birds from hides during the winter months.

Things to do in Castle Douglas

• Carlingwark Loch
• Threave Castle
• Threave House & Gardens
• Threave Wildfowl Refuge

The town of Sanquhar is known for producing knitwear. Sanquhar is located in Nith Valley and is surrounded by wonderful scenery. 

Visitors can learn more about the knitwear history at the Tolbooth Museum. The Tolbooth Museum is set in a Georgian townhouse which was previously a courthouse and 18th-century gaol. 

Sanquhar Castle is a 13th-century castle which is located on the edge of town. It is believed that the oldest post office in the world is located in Sanquhar. The post office opened in 1712.

Crawick Multiverse is a land art project which is nearby to Sanquhar. Previously the site was a coal mine and it was transformed into an incredible art space.

Things to do in Sanquhar

• Tolbooth Museum
• Sanquhar Castle
• Crawick Multiverse

Newton Stewart

Newton Stewart is a lovely destination and is not far from the coast, forest and mountains. The small market town is located on the banks of the River Cree, surrounded by the Galloway Hills. 

Previously, the town thrived on the cotton and carpet industries. Nowadays, the River Cree is a bonus for the salmon and trout fishing industry.

Newton Stewart is a great place to base yourself for a hike to walk in nature. The Galloway Forest Park has some great biking trails and some dramatic scenery. 

Cairnsmore of Fleet is located to the east and rises steeply to 711 metres. 

To the north of Newton Stewart is Merrick which stands at 843 metres. Merrick is the highest mountain in southern Scotland . 

Things to do in Newton Stewart

• Cairnsmore of Fleet
• Galloway Forest Park

The town of Moffat has a range of historic architecture. At the start of the 17th century, Moffat was a wool trade town before becoming a spa town in the 19th century.

It is believed the oldest hostelry in Scotland, Black Bull Inn, was built in 1568 and stands in Moffat. The inventor of the ‘macadamisation’ process of laying roads – John McAdam’s grave stands in the Old Churchyard in Moffat.

Moffat is a great place to base yourself for walking and hiking. There is a section of the long-distance walking path Southern Upland Way near Moffat. 

Moffat is the nearest town to Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve. This area encompasses beautiful walking opportunities including Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall , Loch Skeen and Mid Craig.

Things to do in Moffat

• Southern Upland Way
• Grey Mares Tail Nature Reserve

Wigtown 

Wigtown was the medieval capital of the region, there was a bust harbour, castle and a priory. Nowadays, it is known as Scotland’s National Book Town and is the gateway to the Machar Peninsula.

There is a large square in the centre of town. Also, you can find two market crosses and houses painted in different colours. The town has a wide range of bookshops and places to eat. 

Bladnoch Distillery and visitor centre have been a working distillery since 2002. Torhouse Stone Circle is a bronze-age stone circle consisting of 19 boulders.

Wigtown Bay Visitor Centre has live TV images of the Galloway Ospreys and the wetlands at Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve.

Things to do in Wigtown

• Bladnoch Distillery
• Torhouse Stone Circle
• Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve

Thornhill is a village located between Dumfries and Sanquhar. People have lived in the Thornhill area since Roman times.

Just north of Thornhill is the 17th-century Drumlanrig Estate. The turreted mansion is now home to the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry.

Things to do in Thornhill

• Drumlanrig Castle

Portpatrick

Located on the western shore of the Rhins of Galloway peninsula is a lovely seaside town . Also, it is a gorgeous holiday resort. 

Portpatrick was the main port for travellers who were coming to and from Ireland on steam packet boats. This town was the ‘Gretna Green’ in Ireland where underage people from Ireland would come to tie the knot.

Portpatrick has the most picturesque old harbour with a rocky entrance. Today, it is still busy with small trawlers, yachts and boats.

One of the other options includes walking along the cliffs to Dunskey Castle. The picturesque ruins of 16th-century Dunskey Castle are located on a rocky outcrop which pokes out into the Irish Sea.

Things to do in Portpatrick

• Dunskey Castle

Gretna Green is well known for where a being who was underage to marry in England would come to Scotland to get married. England’s marriage rules were a lot stricter than Scotland, where you can get married without parental consent when you are 16 or older.

Gretna is a modern village a short distance away from Gretna Green. This village is an example of 20th-century town planning and was built to house munition workers during the First World War. 

The houses are spaciously laid out, have a large green and follow a simple neo-Georgian style.

Things to do in Gretna

• Devil’s Porridge

Wanlockhead

Wanlockhead is known for being Scotland’s highest village located in the Lowther Hills. This town is a former mining village located near the Mennock Pass and on the Southern Upland Way walking trail.

The Museum of Lead Mining explores the past of the industry and visitors can go down a former working mine. Detailed records of mining operations are in the Miner’s Library.

Straitsteps Cottages allows visitors to see how people in Wanlockhead lived and worked.

A segment of Britain’s highest railway lies between Wanlockhead and Leadhills. Trips are available for visitors during the summer at the weekends.

Things to do in Wanlockhead

• Museum of Lead Mining
• Straithsteps Cottage
• Leadhills and Wanlockhead Light Railway

Langholm is located on the River Esk. The River Esk is well known for Salmon fishing and there are great scenic walking opportunities. 

In the centre of town, you will find the Buccleuch Centre. The Buccleuch Centre is a venue which brings performers from across the globe to the town.

What are the main towns in Dumfries & Galloway?

Dumfries is the main town in Dumfries and Galloway with a population of 46,500 people. 

Stranraer is the second biggest town in Dumfries and Galloway with a population of approximately 10,100 people. 

Annan is the third largest settlement with a population of approximately 9,000 people.

How Many towns are in Dumfries & Galloway?

There are 17 towns in Dumfries and Galloway.

What is the biggest town in Dumfries and Galloway?

The biggest town in Dumfries and Galloway is Dumfries. Dumfries has a population of 46,500 people.

This post lists the best towns and villages in Dumfries and Galloway to visit. There are plenty of attractions to enjoy including museums, ruined castles, lochs, distilleries and hills.

There are some unique villages in Dumfries and Galloway. Some are traditional market towns and others are surrounded by breath taking scenery. 

There are lovely seaside towns and harbours in Dumfries and Galloway. Also, there is a book town, a  town known for artists and Scotland’s highest village .

The South West Coastal 300 is a long-distance tourist route which showcases the best attractions in the towns and villages in Dumfries and Galloway.

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Dumfries & Galloway

Some of southern Scotland's finest attractions lie in the gentle hills and lush valleys of Dumfries and Galloway. It's an ideal destination for families, as there's plenty on offer for the kids. Galloway Forest – with its sublime views, mountain-biking and walking trails, red deer, kites and other wildlife – is a highlight, as are the dream-like ruins of Caerlaverock Castle. Adding to the appeal of this enticing region is a string of southern Scotland's most idyllic towns, which are charming when the sun shines. And shine it does. This is the mildest region in Scotland and is warmed by the Gulf Stream, a phenomenon that has allowed the development of some famous gardens.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum of Lead Mining

‘Lead mining’: even the phrase has a sort of dulling effect on the brain, and you’d think it’d be a tough ask to make the subject interesting. But this…

Caerlaverock Castle

The ruins of Caerlaverock Castle, by Glencaple on a beautiful stretch of the Solway coast, are among the loveliest in Britain. Surrounded by a moat, lawns…

Whithorn Timescape

Ruined Whithorn Priory (Scotland's earliest recorded church) is part of this excellent complex, which introduces you to the history of the place with a…

Mull of Galloway

Scotland's southernmost point is a spectacular spot, with windswept green grass and views of Scotland, England, the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland. The…

Ruthwell Cross

Seven miles east of Caerlaverock Castle, in tiny Ruthwell, a church holds one of Europe’s most important early Christian monuments. The 6m-high 7th…

Burns House

This is a place of pilgrimage for Burns enthusiasts. It's here that the poet spent the last years of his life, and there are various possessions of his in…

Castle Kennedy Gardens

Three miles east of Stranraer, these magnificent gardens are among Scotland's most renowned. They cover 30 hectares and are set on an isthmus between two…

Stretching for 9 miles northwest of Castle Douglas between the A713 and A762, Loch Ken is a popular outdoor recreational area. The range of water sports…

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Latest stories from Dumfries & Galloway

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Jan 31, 2024 • 5 min read

Travel to Dumfries and Galloway off-season and you'll experience the hikes, drives and bike rides through its near-empty trails and roads.

Sep 1, 2020 • 2 min read

11 Things to do in Dumfries and Galloway You Won’t Want to Miss

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

Dumfries and Galloway is the least visited area of Scotland – I have no idea why. The region is absolutely stunning, tends much more towards good weather relative to the rest of Scotland and there are some fantastic things to do in Dumfries and Galloway .

From the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse to Wigtown Scotland to Drumlanrig Castle the West Coast Scotland has so much to offer.

11 Things to do in Dumfries and Galloway

1. stay at knockinaam lodge.

I fell in love with Knockinaam Lodge . It is located very near the most southwestern tip of Scotland (see below) and has a very magical, hidden away feel. This Scotland luxury hotel is tucked away behind a cliff next to the sea.

The small cove and beach at Knockinaam Lodge Scotland are absolutely gorgeous. And then there are the 30 acres of gorgeous gardens – and a walking path to super cute Portpatrick.

Knockinaam Lodge has 10 gorgeous bedrooms and half have sea views. I had a lovely big comfortable bed tucked under the eaves and a great sea view.

The main house of this hotel in Scotland is extremely welcoming with a great big living area and bar on the ground floor. And the food.

The menu at Knockinaam Lodge Scotland features fresh, local produce such as Ayrshire Tubot and Galloway Lamb on the night I ate there.

Knockinaam breakfast was another highlight. Go the full Scottish with sausage, black pudding, haggis and all the rest or go modern with salmon and a poached egg on brioche with Hollandaise.

When it comes to fun things to do in Dumfries and Galloway enjoying over the top Scottish breakfasts has to be high on the list.

⇒ If you enjoy some luxury on your travels don’t miss my post on 9 Fantastic Spa Breaks Scotland.  

Knockinaam Lodge is steeped in history. Sir Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower met here during the Second World War. John Buchan visited Knockinaam Lodge and based some of his famous novel The 39 Steps around the area.

This Scottish hotel is a well-known spot for artists and writers to be able to escape and explore their creativity. I can completely see why. There is something very peaceful yet magical about this special area on the West Coast Scotland.

Top Tip : A car will be a huge help to find and explore around Knockinaam Lodge.

⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

2. Visit the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse

The Mull of Galloway is the most southerly point of Scotland’s mainland and one of the best things to do in Dumfries and Galloway. The Mull of Galloway Scotland Lighthouse was built by Robert Stevenson in 1830 and stands 99 metres above sea level.

It is possible to climb to the top of this Scotttish lighthouse and see the view from the balcony. There is also an exhibition on the ground floor of the Mull of Galloway.

It is possible to do a nice almost circular walk around this Scotland lighthouse from the parking area. Don’t miss the view from the Lagvag viewpoint – this was my favourite.

There is also a cute coffee house Gallie Craig which sits right on the cliff and provides stunning views. The easiest way to get to the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse is by car along the A716 – follow the brown tourist signs from Drummore.

If you are taking the train the closest station is Stranraer which is 35km away. The nearest bus stop is at Drummore which is 8km away. A car is definitely the best option.

3. Have lunch at Campbells Portpatrick

Portpatrick Scotland is a picture-perfect town set on a small bay on the west coast of Scotland. Pastel coloured houses and buildings line the bay. Once a port, Portpatrick is now a seaside resort.

There are some great options when it comes to Portpatrick restaurant choices. I chose to have a delicious seafood lunch at Campbells Portpatrick and can highly recommend their seafood tempura.

The Crown Hotel and the Port Pantry in Portpatrick also come with good reviews. Don’t miss visiting this lovely little town in Scotland – it is extremely photogenic.

There are some fantastic UK City and Sightseeing passes which offer free entry to all must-see attractions & great deals.

4. Buy a book in Wigtown

One of the more unusual things to do in Dumfries and Galloway is to buy a book. Wigtown was declared Scotland’s National Book Town in 1998.

This very cute Scottish town is now filled with bookshops and all businesses book related. Many of them sit around Wigtown’s charming main square.

Every year in September the town hosts the Wigtown Book Festival . This festival is one of the key events in Dumfries and Galloway. The Wigtown Book Festival runs for 10 days and features more than 200 events.

Wigtown is absolutely worth a visit outside of Festival time. It is very photogenic and in addition to books, you can buy prints, cards and paintings as well.

5. Drive through the Galloway Forest Park

I stumbled upon Galloway Forest Park by accident. I was working my way down to Wigtown and didn’t even realise I was taking a particularly scenic inner route.

If you are tight on time I highly recommend driving through this beautiful Scottish park. If you do have more time Galloway Forest Park is filled with walking and cycling trails.

6. Visit Logan Botanic Gardens

The wonderful microclimate of this area of Scotland means that plants can be grown here that would not thrive in other areas of Scotland. Logan Botanic Garden is known as Scotland’s Most Exotic Garden and is one of the key attractions in Dumfries and Galloway.

Logan Botanic Garden features plants from South and Central America, Southern africa and Australasia that are rarely seen in the United Kingdom.

⇒ Heading to London? Check out my posts on 13 Unusual Experiences in London , the best London Food Tours , my virtual London Travel Blog , some great Earlsfield restaurants , 14 Things to do in Notting Hill , restaurants near Clapham Junction and Victoria Station restaurants , 16 Famous Landmarks in Europe , a mad hatter afternoon tea party and a day trip to Brighton , 67 Fascinating Facts about London , 18 Landmarks of London from a local, 15 Places to see Sunsets in London , 9 Places to watch the Sunrise in London , 10 Bridges in London Not to Miss and Cotswolds tour from London options.

There are some lovely walks, a Walled Garden, fish pond and the award-winning Potting Shed Bistro for some lunch. If you’re heading to Logan Botanic Gardens in west Scotland in May have a look at this post about Visiting the Garden of Cosmic Speculation – it is only open one day of the year.

7. Eat seafood

Dumfries and Galloway are full of fabulous seafood. Enjoy seafood at Knockinaam Lodge or head at several Portpatrick Restaurants – perhaps the centre of great seafood eating in Dumfries and Galloway.

Moores Fish and Chip shop at Castle Douglas also comes with good reviews.

8. Take the Southwest coastal drive 300 route

Any stories about driving around Scotland normally focus on the justifiably wonderful North Coast 500 road which runs through the jaw-droppingly beautiful Scottish Highlands

The Southwest Coast Drive 300 Scotland route is considerably less well known – but in many ways just as beautiful.

The route is just over 300 miles and is circular so you can start it in many different spots. A good place to start the South West Coast Drive 300 is Lockerbie.

The South West Scotland 300 can then be followed to Dumfries and then all along the coast to the Mull of Galloway and back up through Girvan.

9. New Galloway Tea Rooms

On the edge of Galloway Forest Park and Loch Ken is the very cute town of New Galloway. The town dates back to 1633 and is the perfect spot to explore Loch Ken and Galloway Forest Park.

New Galloway Scotland is known for having great tea rooms. 

10. Drive Loch Ken and visit Threave Gardens

Threave has a stunning garden filled with water sculptures and heathers. Threave Garden also brags that it has the UK’s only bat reserve.

There is a cafe, shop, picnic area etc etc and Threave Castle is also nearby but a boat is needed to gain access. Loch Ken runs for 9 miles with the village of Glenlochar at the south end.

⇒ If you’re a fan of Robert Burns don’t miss my post on Things to do in Ayrshire.

11. Drumlanrig Castle

It goes to show how many amazing Scottish castles there are that I had never heard of Drumlanrig Castle . Anywhere else in the world this castle in Scotland would be a major tourist attraction.

Drumlanrig is an absolutely stunning Castle – its pinky-red bricks look amazing in the sunlight. This 17th-century Scottish castle sits on the 120,000 acres Queensberry Estate.

There are several trails around Drumlanrig Castle – from 1.5 to 7km. They can be explored on foot or by bike. The Drumlanrig estate also has a tea room and gift shop for snacks and browsing.

Getting to Dumfries and Galloway and Getting around

The closest airports are Glasgow and Prestwick . It is also possible to fly into Edinburgh Airport – especially if you are more interested in the eastern side of Dumfries and Galloway.

Once you have arrived in South West Scotland the easiest way to get around is to hire a car . I would highly recommend doing this.

Not only is driving the most convenient option the weather changes frequently in Scotland so it is great to be able to rearrange your day as you need it.

There are local bus services and trains between Gretna Green through Annan, Dumfries, Sanquhar and Kirkconnell or Stranraer from Glasgow.

⇒ If you’re flying into Glasgow don’t miss my post on the 19 Best Glasgow Tours & Day Trips

When to Visit Dumfries and Galloway

The Dumfries and Galloway region has a maritime climate so it never gets extremely hot or cold. July is the warmest month of the year and January the coldest. Snow is rare. Rainfall is quite even throughout the year.

However, there are plenty of things to do on a rainy day in Dumfries and Galloway as you will read. Dumfries and Galloway is a good destination to visit all year round. Summer is peak time.

Personally, I think Spring and Autumn are the best times to visit south west Scotland (I visited in May) as there are fewer people but quite long days. Autumn is also good for colourful leaves.

Like the rest of the UK, the weather changes often during the day no matter what time of year you visit.

What to Pack for a Visit to Dumfries and Galloway

As the weather does vary quite a bit no matter what time of year you visit pack layers and bring some waterproofs if you have lots of days out in Dumfries and Galloway planned. This part of Scotland does not tend to be terribly fancy.

However, the high-end hotels in the area (like Knockinaam Lodge and Trump Turnberry – more on them later) do have a bit of a dress for dinner thing going on so good to pack one more dressed up option.

⇒ Looking for an adventure while you’re in Scotland? Check out my post on Climbing Ben Nevis.

And here’s a Dumfries and Galloway map with everywhere I have mentioned to help you plan your trip.

Don’t miss Dumfries Castle – I couldn’t get there so if you hit Dumfries UK and get to the castle please drop me an email and tell me what it is like.

Who Paid for What in this Post?

Thanks to Luxury Scotland for hosting my stay at Knockinaam Lodge and covering the cost of my car hire. I covered the cost of my flights to Scotland and of the attractions that I visited. As always, my opinions are my own.

This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click through on the links and end up making a purchase I will receive small commission. Just wanted to make sure that you knew this.

READ NEXT: TOP 12 THINGS TO DO IN AYRSHIRE SCOTLAND FOR ADULTS

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Julie Sykes

Wednesday 20th of June 2018

Dumfries and Galloway is such a beautiful part of the world. I loved the little museum at Sanquhar which shows off traditional knitting techniques. As well as the landscapes (rain permitting!) of course :)

The Boutique Adventurer

Thursday 21st of June 2018

thanks Julie - I didn't get to that museum - I will next time! and yes such stunning landscapes if the weather allows!

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Places to visit in Tomsk Oblast

• About Seversk

Seversk is a closed metropolis in Tomsk Oblast, Russia, placed 15 kilometers northwest of Tomsk at the right financial institution of the Tom River. The Fifth Postal till 1954 and as Tomsk-7 until 1992. City reputation changed into granted to it in 1956. Seversk is the web site of the Siberian Chemical Combine, based in 1954. It incorporates numerous nuclear reactors and chemical flora for separation, enrichment, and reprocessing of uranium and plutonium.

Following an settlement in March 2003 among Russia and the US to shut down Russia's 3 closing plutonium-producing reactors, two of the three plutonium generating reactors the 2 that are sited at Seversk have now been close down. Nuclear warheads are produced and stored on the premises. One of the most critical nuclear accidents at SGCE passed off on April 6, 1993, when a tank containing a quite radioactive answer exploded Seversk turned into a secret metropolis in the Soviet Union until President Boris Yeltsin decreed in 1992 that such cities ought to use their historic names.

The metropolis regarded on no professional maps till then. As was the subculture with Soviet towns containing mystery facilities, the designation Tomsk-7 like its predecessor "Pyaty Pochtovy" is actually a postal code which means that the vicinity is positioned close to the city of Tomsk. For a few years, residents had restrictions to go into or depart the town. Upon leaving Seversk, residents had to give up their unique entry passes on the checkpoint and have been forbidden from discussing wherein they worked or lived. In 1987 a few restrictions were lifted due to the huge variety of residents who labored or studied in Tomsk.

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