From streams to summits and forests to shores, the landscape in Dumfries & Galloway is naturally inspiring, influencing the region’s history, culture and everyday life. Discover how this region’s beautiful scenery has filled artists and writers with the passion to create great works, and see how it is the perfect backdrop for exciting activities and an abundance of rare wildlife. It’s clear to see that there are so many things to in Dumfries and Galloway.
History and Heritage
Known, like its football club, as the “Queen of the South”, Dumfries is an ancient town with a long and turbulent history. Today it is by far the biggest town in south west Scotland, the administrative centre for Dumfries and Galloway and the focus of a large rural hinterland. Dumfries was founded as a Royal Burgh in 1186 on the east side of the lowest crossing point of the River Nith. The land beyond the Nith, known as Galloway, only securely became part of Scotland during Alexander’s reign in 1234. As a result Dumfries was very much a frontier town during its early years as a Royal Burgh. Partly as a result of this it grew rapidly both as a market town and as a port. With famous monuments all over the region the history of Dumfries and Galloway is deeply embedded in modern day Dumfries and Galloway.
Activities and Attractions
With a wide range of activities and attractions in Dumfries and Galloway there is something to keep everyone busy from historic sites to family days out. If you’re looking to keep active on holiday and experience the Dumfries and Galloway countryside then a trip to either Laggan Outdoor or Galloway Activity Centre must be top of your list. With a huge range of activities from kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, climbing, archery and mountain biking there’s an activity for every member of the family to enjoy.
If the weather has turned and you’re not feeling adventurous in the rain then a visit to Annandale Distillery is the perfect day out for a rainy day. With a range of tours and the chance to learn the history of Scottish whiskey and even try some for yourself.
Looking to visit some magnificent historic buildings? Dumfries and Galloway has you covered. Caerlaverock Castle a great medieval ruin famous for its unique triangle shape provides magnificent viewing as you walk the bridge across the moat. If all this excitement is tiring you out and you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon Threave Garden and Estate provides spectacular gardens to meander around in a tranquil country setting. With a range of walks and cycling routes you will never be lost wondering what to do on a trip to Dumfries and Galloway.
Food and Drink
Dumfries & Galloway is bursting with the very best in Scottish food and drink. Chefs of the region have an abundance of raw and award-winning ingredients at their finger tips including fresh salmon, organic farmhouse cheese, delicious local game and much more. Experience this authentic cuisine for yourself by stopping off at the many restaurants, hotels, cafes and bars across Dumfries & Galloway.
There really is something to suit all tastes and budgets, from Michelin-star dining to cliff-top cafes and bars at the harbour-side bars. If you want to find out more then why not visit one of the regular farmers’ and community markets from Lockerbie to Gatehouse of Fleet where you can pick up excellent produce and talk to the stallholders.
Photo by Michael Cummins on Unsplash
