Places to Visit and Attractions in Dumfries and Galloway

 

If you’re heading to south-west Scotland, take a look at the best places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway. You might want to try and negotiate as much time off with the boss as possible – this region is famous for its striking castles, hills and coastline, so it could keep you busy for weeks and weeks. 

Whether you want to pump up your adrenaline on the mountain bike trails or eat your fill of local produce like smoked fish and game, plan a top trip with these places to visit and attractions in Dumfries and Galloway.

Caerlaverock Castle

A ruined medieval fortress

Explore the 13th-century ruins of one of Scotland’s finest medieval fortresses. From the moat, towers and battlements to the narrow passageways that thread through the interior, there’s plenty to see among the ruins.

Caerlaverock’s thick red-sandstone walls look like they could withstand any invaders but, unfortunately, that hasn’t been the case. Learn about the castle’s most turbulent times, including the history that inspired the epic poem The Siege of Caerlaverock, in the on-site exhibition.

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Mull of Galloway

Scotland’s most southerly point

Come to the scenic Mull of Galloway and climb the steps to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views over the Irish Sea and across to the Isle of Man.

The most southerly point in Scotland is at the end of the Rhins of Galloway, a peninsula with quiet countryside and sandy beaches. Most people visit by car, but those who like a challenge can reach the area on foot via the 37-mile Mull of Galloway Trail. Also on the Rhins, the Logan Botanic Garden has an almost subtropical climate, so you can see palm trees, eucalyptus and exotic plants while here. 

Visit the RSPB visitor centre too and learn about the birds and other wildlife on the headland – from gannets to peregrine falcons – before hitting the coffee house for homemade treats.  

Find more places to hike in the best walks in Dumfries and Galloway

Threave Garden & Estate

Wildlife watching outside a large country manor

Wander from one carefully designed garden room to another at Threave. There’s a rockery, a walled garden and glasshouses, as well as cascades and ponds. Threave House is at the centre of the estate on a small island, and you can explore the ruins by taking a tiny ferry across the river.

Looking for some wildlife? Walk further out to the hides at this spot run by Scotland’s National Trust for a chance to see osprey, kingfishers and otters, along with the UK’s only bat reserve. 

To make your visit to Threave a full day out, visit nearby Castle Douglas. It’s a designated Food Town, so arrive with an appetite and try some of the good-quality local produce. 

Want more good places to eat? Read about the best restaurants in Dumfries and Galloway

Dumfries Museum

Local history from the dinosaurs onwards

For an insight into local history, visit the Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura. The timescale runs from prehistoric fossilised footprints to exhibits from a Victorian farm, so you can get an in-depth overview of the long history of the region. 

The museum is inside an 18th-century windmill, and on the top floor is the world’s oldest camera obscura, a room with wide views over Dumfries and the surrounding countryside.  

Discover more places to camp in Scotland with our guide

Galloway Forest Park

Walking, biking and wildlife spotting

Take a day trip to Galloway Forest Park for wildlife sightings, scenic drives and outdoor activities. Start at one of the three visitor centres to learn about the Galloway forests you’re about to check out. 

The Kirroughtree and Glentrool areas have two of the 7stanes mountain bike trails and several others that vary in difficulty. If you’re hoping for something gentler, there are family-friendly cycling paths and lots of hiking routes. 

One of the highlights is the Raiders’ Road Forest Drive. It runs for 10 miles and has several stopping places like the Otter Pool area where you can walk down to the river with a picnic. Make sure to pause at Stroan Loch too for views over the water and a stone viaduct. 

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Cream o’ Galloway

Some of Scotland’s best ice cream

It’s best to visit Cream o’ Galloway with a rumbling stomach. With ice-cream-making workshops, a make-your-own-cheese course, tours of the on-site dairy farm and crazy golf courses among the attractions, there’s probably something for everyone here. 

There are also four miles of signposted nature trails with wildlife hides and acres of woodland to explore. When you’re done with the active part of your visit, head to the ice-cream parlour and try some of the tastiest treats in Scotland.

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Drumlanrig Castle

Extensive gardens and a Renaissance mansion

One of Scotland’s most significant Renaissance buildings, the 17th-century Drumlanrig Castle is set in 120,000 acres of parkland. Enter the home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch to gaze at the richly decorated rooms full of opulent art and furniture collections. 

Outside, meander along easy paths or stride out into the countryside to see wild landscapes of ancient trees and lochs. Dogs are welcome, but you’ll need to keep them on a lead so they don’t disturb the animals. And if you’re after an adrenaline-packed adventure? Take your mountain bike on one of the many trails. 

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If you’re inspired by the green spaces on this list, find more with our guide to the best gardens to visit in Dumfries and Galloway.