11 fantastic things to do in Dumfries and Galloway

The variety of brilliant things to do in Dumfries and Galloway makes this a great choice for a holiday destination. Highlighted below are 11 amazing attractions that will appeal to kids and adults so everyone can enjoy a wonderful trip exploring this beautiful part of Scotland.

Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura

Dumfries Museum features an massive range of attractions, from early tools and weapons to stone carvings, skeletons and fun family activities. A highlight is the Camera Obscura situated at the top of the windmill tower that forms part of the museum. The Camera Obscura was installed in 1836 and provides a fantastic panoramic view. The museum has free entry and it is £2.60 for adults to access the Camera Obscura which only operates in good weather.

Broughton House and Garden

The artists’ colony of Kirkcudbright offers a range of amazing arty attractions including Broughton House and Garden. This Georgian house built in the 18th century used to be the residence of the Scottish painter Edward Atkinson Hornel and contains an excellent collection of literature and artwork. The house and garden are open from the end of March to the end of October, with admission for adults costing £6.50 and £5 for children.

The Tolbooth Art Centre

Also situated in Kirkcudbright in what used to be a debtor’s prison, the Tolbooth Art Centre offers insight into Kirkcudbright’s artist colony via an audio-visual presentation and a permanent display of pieces from artists such as Jessie M. King and Edward Hornel. In addition there is a contemporary art and craft gallery in the centre, as well as a café if you’re feeling peckish. The centre is open all year, with free admission.

Wigtown Book Festival

Wigtown is Scotland’s National Book Town and in addition to its numerous second-hand bookshops it hosts an annual book festival. The festival incorporates a multitude of events, from literary workshops to music, theatre and designated children’s activities. The festival runs from the end of September to the first week of October, with prices varying depending on the event.

Gretna Green Blacksmiths Shop

For a dash of romance during a visit to Dumfries and Galloway take flight to the Blacksmiths Shop in Gretna Green. This was the first building that eloping couples reached in Gretna Green and many couples have been married in this building. Other attractions nearby include a children’s playground and the Courtship Maze. This is a fun adventure for families as well as couples, as the maze has two entrances, one on either end, with the objective being to reach a bridge in the centre of the maze. The Blacksmiths Shop is open year round, with £3 entry for adults and £2.75 entry for kids, while children under 12 years old get in free.

Cairnhead

The spectacular natural amphitheatre at Cairnhead Forest doesn’t only offer breathtaking scenery for hill walkers. It is also home to the Striding Arches project which was created by artist Andy Goldsworthy. The project consists of self-supporting arches made of red sandstone which are located around the amphitheatre and represent a union of art and nature.

Galloway Forest Park

Galloway Forest Park is the largest forest park in Britain, encompassing 300 square miles, and also has Dark Sky Park status making it incredible for viewing the night sky. Exploring the park during the day is just as wonderful with the breathtakingly beautiful scenery including hills, valleys, rivers and lochs. You may even spot some of the local wildlife such as red squirrels, deer and otters to name a few.

Sweetheart Abbey

The Cistercian abbey of Dulce Cor (which translates to ‘sweet heart’ from Latin) was founded in the 13th century by Lady Dervorgilla of Galloway as a tribute to her late husband. The widow had her husband’s heart embalmed and carried it with her wherever she went and when she died she was buried next to the abbey’s alter along with her husband’s heart. Only the ruins of the abbey remain but they are picturesque, as is the surrounding landscape. Sweetheart Abbey can be visited year round, with entry costing £4.50 for adults and £2.70 for children.

Caerlaverock Castle

The medieval fortress of Caerlaverock Castle is imposing and impressive. The red sandstone walls feature a distinct triangular shape which is unique amongst British castles. The castle is surrounded by a moat and offers fun for the whole family, from a siege warfare exhibition to a children’s play area as well as a nature trail. The castle is open all year, with children’s tickets costing £3.30 and adults’ tickets costing £5.50.

Mabie Farm Park

Combining farming and family fun, Mabie Farm Park is a delightful day out for all members of the family. There are wonderful animals to view in the paddocks and barn including water buffalo, pygmy goats, sheep, pigs, alpacas, peacocks and cows to name a few. The farm offers the opportunity to feed and handle some of the animals and children can enjoy fantastic donkey rides. Outdoor activities include slides, paddle boats, bouncy castles and go karts and rainy days are catered for as well, with indoor activities including a climbing wall, trampolines, tractor rides and an inflatable slide. The park is open daily and entry is £7 for children aged 2 to 16, while adult tickets cost £7.50.

Dumfries House

The stately home of Dumfries House was built in the 18th century and is equally grand on the inside as it is from the outside. Highlights include the tapestry room and the collection of Chippendale furniture, as well as walks around the grounds of the beautiful estate. The estate can be accessed free of charge, though the house is only accessible via guided tour. Adult tour tickets cost £8.50 and tickets for children aged 5 to 16 cost £4, with free entry for kids under 5 years old.

Varied delights for a superb day out

Perhaps you love getting outdoors, learning about history, viewing animal antics or touring stately homes. Alternatively you may have an avid interest in art or ancient castles. Whatever your interests, Dumfries and Galloway can provide an amazing adventure for both younger and older visitors.