Explore: Dumfries & Galloway

Natural Wonders

Glorious Gardens

Outdoor Adventures

www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk

What to See & Do 2013-14

Explore: Dumfries & Galloway

Natural Wonders

Glorious Gardens

Outdoor Adventures

Over 150 attractions to choose from, inspiring ideas for great days out

Enjoy thrilling activities, from 7stanes mountain biking to the longest zip wire in the UK

Disclaimer VisitScotland has published this guide in good faith to reflect information submitted to it by the proprietor/managers of the premises listed who have paid for their entries to be included. Although VisitScotland has taken reasonable steps to confirm the information contained in the guide at the time of going to press, it cannot guarantee that the information published is and remains accurate. Accordingly, VisitScotland recommends that all information is checked with the proprietor/manager of the business to ensure that the facilities, cost and all other aspects of the premises are satisfactory. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation contained in the guide and excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the information contained in the guide. VisitScotland also cannot accept any liability for loss caused by the bankruptcy, or liquidation, or insolvency, or cessation of trade of any company, firm or individual contained in this guide. Quality Assurance awards are correct as of December 2012.

Dumfries & Galloway

Exotic gardens blessed by the warm Gulf Stream

Five 7stanes mountain biking centres

Robert Burns once lived in Dumfries

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Welcome to...

For further information on accommodation and exploring Scotland, go to www.visitscotland.com

02 From coast to country

04 Great days out

06 Gardens and nurseries

08 A wildlife haven

10 Discover a land rich in history

12 Where legends come to life

14 Naturally inspired creativity

16 VisitScotland Information Centres

17 Quality Assurance

18 How to read the listings

19 Great days out – Places to Visit

33 Great days out – Events & Festivals

34 Great outdoor adventures

36 Your Gateway to Golf

38 Great days out – Leisure Activities

44 Savour the fl avours

46 Great days out – Food & Drink

50 Great days out – Shopping

52 Travel tips

53 Great days out – Tours

53 Great days out – Local Services

54 What’s on

56 Great days out – Family Fun

70 Dumfries & Galloway area map

72 An A-Z quick reference to all the listings in this guide

Contents

CreditsPhotography: Big Burns Supper, Day of the Region, Destination Dumfries & Galloway/Colin Tennant, Disney•Pixar, Forestry Commission Image Library, Jen Langridge, Scotland’s Gardens/Val Corbett, Juha Soininen, Spring Fling, Scottish Viewpoint/Andy Bennetts/Allan Devlin/Mark Hicken/Keith Kirk/Chris Robson/Allan Wright, Paul Tompkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint.

Design: APS Group Scotland | www.theapsgroup.com, Shaw Marketing and Design | www.shaw-online.com and THK Design | www.thkdesign.com

This brochure is printed on recycled content paper. VisitScotland is committed to ensuring that our environment, upon which our tourismis so dependent, is safeguarded for future generations to enjoy.

Cover Threave Castle, on the River Dee, Castle Douglas.01 Exotic Logan Botanic Garden, Port Logan.02 Larch route, Ae 7stanes mountain biking centre.03 Yachts moored at Kippford.04 Burns Statue, Dumfries town centre.05 Striding Arch at The Byre, near Moniaive.06 Medicine Tara Statue, Kagyu Samye Ling, Eskdalemuir.

Prepare for an adventure in Dumfries & Galloway, where the hills, coastline and forest park provide the ideal setting for you to explore by foot, bike or boat.

Delve into the fascinating history with a visit to the museums and visitor centres which tell of inventors, poets and pioneers. Enjoy the culture of this naturally inspiring region in the art galleries and bookshops tucked away in the heart of the towns. Take a trip to Kirkcudbright, the Artists’ Town, and see masterpieces based on the inspiring setting of the beautiful, contrasting landscape.

Explore some of the 200 miles of coastline and you can wander along any of the region’s tranquil beaches and gaze out on to many lands across the sparkling Solway Firth. Follow the Solway Coast Heritage Trail, a charming 190 mile route which

will take you through the quaint streets of the region’s coastal villages or savour the tranquillity of a woodland walk through the vast forests.

The Galloway Forest Park is a fabulous green space big enough to spend a week exploring, filled with activities, rare wildlife and the opportunity for stargazing – as these 300 square miles have been designated an International Dark Sky Association approved Dark Sky Park.

Enjoy the fun and fascination of Dumfries & Galloway, a region of inspiring landscapes, enthralling culture and curious wildlife.

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The Galloway Red Kite Trail 08

The Striding Arches, three arch sculptures 14

Over 30 golf courses for all abilities 36


To find out more about Dumfries & Galloway go to www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk 01

Discover pretty towns and villages along a 200 mile stretch of coastline or head inland to find hills, forests and peaceful rivers.

Follow quiet roads through this picturesque region, such as the A712 Queen’s Way in the Galloway Forest Park. Stop off in the towns and villages, which make great bases for exploring the countryside and enjoying hillwalking and mountain biking.

Gretna Green is a famous location for weddings – discover the stories of the couples who eloped at the fascinating Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop before heading up to Langholm, on a section of the Borders Reiver Trail, and stop in the ‘Muckle Toon’s’ Clan Armstrong Trust Museum.

The town of Lockerbie has an ice rink which hosts top-class curling events, an architecturally interesting Town Hall and is also a great base to explore the nearby hills and coast. The Lockerbie Jazz Festival takes place in the town in September and attracts artists from across the world.

The historic county town of Dumfries sits on the banks of the River Nith, and is famed for its connection with the National Bard, Robert Burns. There are a number of fascinating places and attractions to visit which tell of the history.

North, through striking scenery in the Nith Valley, you’ll find the pretty villages of Moniaive and Penpont.

From coast to country

The charming villages and friendly communities of Dumfries & Galloway delight all who visit them, with their stunning buildings and streets filled with independent stores, visitor centres and museums.

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Check out the artworks in

Castle Square, Stranraer

Kirkcudbright – the Artists’ Town

Wigtown – the Book Town

Castle Douglas – the Food Town

Dumfries & Galloway

02 For further information on accommodation and exploring Scotland, go to www.visitscotland.com

• Head to Thornhill with the stunning Drumlanrig Castle and then on to Sanquhar, home to the Tolbooth Museum, a handsome Georgian town house with a square clock tower, and the oldest working post office in Britain, dating back to 1712.

• Take the Solway Coast Heritage Trail for sublime vistas which run past picture-perfect villages including Kippford and the attractive seaside village of Rockcliffe.

• The pleasant 18th century market town of Castle Douglas is a thriving centre for the prosperous local farming area.

• Kirkcudbright is known as the Artists’ Town and is still the home of many artists and writers. You can discover the history of the area at Tolbooth Arts Centre, MacLellan’s Castle, Broughton House and the Stewartry Museum.

Down on the coast is Wigtown Bay where there is a Local Nature Reserve, home to the Galloway ospreys, which you can watch on CCTV at Wigtown County Buildings.

Newton Stewart, the gateway to the Galloway Hills, is a small market town named after its founder William Stewart, son of the Earl of Galloway. Right next to the Galloway Forest Park, the town is a great base for hillwalking, mountain biking and spotting the wealth of wildlife. You can also head into the forest park at night for stargazing, as it is a designated Dark Sky Park.

Discover Stranraer in the south west, beside Loch Ryan. Attractions include Castle of St John and the town museum, and just 3 miles outside, Castle Kennedy Gardens.

South west of Stranraer is Portpatrick, a beautiful village which sits around a harbour with a history stretching back 500 years. This area is great for walking and is the starting point of the Southern Upland Way, a long distance route through the region and into the Scottish Borders.

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Discover more... Take a wander around Threave

Gardens, or 2 miles away, you can catch a boat to Threave Castle.

Explore the unspoiled Glenkens area and tour up to New Galloway via the Galloway Kite Trail to see these graceful, impressive birds.

Moffat has a beautiful, wide tree-lined high street and was the first Scottish town to be awarded Walkers are Welcome status in 2008.

Dumfries & Galloway has three touring routes: the Burns Heritage Trail, the Galloway Tourist Route and the Solway Coast Heritage Trail.

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Did youknow?

From the Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s most southerly

point, views of four kingdoms can be seen.

01 Port Logan Harbour.02 The Man, by Andrew Brown, the harbour at Port William.03 Main Street, New Galloway.04 Drumlanrig Castle, by Thornhill.05 Colvin Memorial Fountain (Moffat Ram), Moffat.06 Stargazing in the Dark Sky Park, Galloway Forest.


From coast to country

Great days out

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Experience adventure and family fun every day in Dumfries & Galloway and choose from fascinating tales of history in the museums and castles, or hours of activity along the many walking paths and cycle trails.

Spend a day tracing the last few years of Robert Burns’ life, beginning at Ellisland Farm, once home to the famous Scots poet. His former home is now a popular museum and you can see his original writing and possessions and take a stroll along the idyllic Burns Walk where he composed Tam o’ Shanter. Take a guided tour of the farmhouse to see the rooms where the poet and his wife, Jean Armour, lived and worked.

Robert Burns’ House, his former home in Burns Street, Dumfries, now serves as a dedicated museum where you can see the desk and chair where he sat to write, more than 200 years ago.

You can finish your day at the Burns’ Mausoleum in St Michael’s Churchyard, Dumfries, which was completed in 1817. The mausoleum was renovated in 2012 with a new copper cupola roof, restoring it to its former condition. Every year on Burns’ birthday, 25 January, wreaths are laid at the mausoleum as part of the celebrations of his life.

There are many ways to spend a day in Dumfries & Galloway with a great choice of visitor centres and museums displaying everything from crystals and ancient stones to famous poems.

Did youknow?

Dumfries has a Camera Obscura above the museum

where you can see a moving panoramic

view of the town.

• Enjoy a family day out at the Cocoa Bean Factory at Twynholm where you can watch delicious chocolates being handmade from scratch by the experts. The factory also provides children’s workshops, where kids can get busy creating their own unique chocolates.

• Visit the Scottish Cycle Museum at Drumlanrig Castle to learn more about the man who invented the pedal cycle, Kirkpatrick Macmillan, who was born nearby in Keir Mill in 1812.

• Spend an afternoon at Dalscone Farm Fun and see animals such as llamas, donkeys and pigs in their ‘Farmari’. After meeting various species, enjoy the great outdoors with a round of crazy golf or get the whole family onto one of the pedal karts for a look around the rest of the farm.

Drummuir Farm Ice Cream

Gold panning at Wanlockhead

Victorian gardens at Drumlanrig Castle

Dumfries & Galloway


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01 The Observatory Room, Dumfries Museum & Camera Obscura.02 The Scottish Cycle Museum, Drumlanrig Castle.03 Dalscone Farm Fun, Dumfries.04 The Globe Inn, frequented by Robert Burns. 05 The Savings Banks Museum, Ruthwell.

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Look out for a great range of events at Cream o’ Galloway, from ice cream experiences to pond dipping.

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Discover what goes on behind the scenes by taking a farm tour of Cream o’ Galloway, which finishes with a free scoop of ice cream. There are also two indoor play areas, an adventure playground and pedal karts.

See the finest private collection of gemstones, crystals, minerals, rocks and fossils in the UK at the Gem Rock Museum in Creetown. Enjoy the fully interactive experience where you can see the ‘Maverick’ gold nugget, one of the largest gold specimens on display, and a set of exquisitely cut replicas of the world’s largest diamonds.

Spend a day meeting and feeding the friendly animals at Mabie Farm Park including Highland cattle, Vietnamese potbellied pigs and pygmy goats. There’s also an aviary full of beautiful birds as well as a pet corner where children have the opportunity to handle and feed friendly rabbits, mice and guinea pigs. From paddle boats to the astroslide, grass sledging, quad bikes and more, there’s lots of fun for the whole family to enjoy.

Discover Devil’s Porridge

Travel on Leadhills & Wanlockhead Railway

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Great days out

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Due to the wonderfully warm climate, Dumfries & Galloway boasts a large number of fabulous gardens and nurseries, where you can see exotic plants and trees.

Gardens and nurseries

Did youknow?

Charles Jencks’ Garden of Cosmic Speculation

opens for one day a year under Scotland’s Garden Scheme.

Dumfries & Galloway


Fascinating facts A trip to Japan inspired Scottish

artist EA Hornel to develop part of Broughton House Garden in Kirkcudbright in a Japanese style, with a mix of formal and relaxed and a profusion of colourful plants.

During spring and early summer, a collection of over 500 rhododendrons and azaleas come into bloom in Drumlanrig Castle Gardens, by Thornhill.

Britain’s oldest Douglas fir and largest sycamore can also be found in the 40 acres of beautiful Victorian gardens at the castle.

Overlooked by the ruined 16th century Castle Kennedy and Lochinch Castle, the Castle Kennedy Gardens are also flanked by two natural lochs.

Enjoy the 75 acre garden with its beautiful avenues and landscaped terraces alongside the striking Round Pond in the centre, covered in waterlilies.

Cally Gardens, Gatehouse of Fleet, is a large walled garden built in the 1770s to provide fruit and vegetables for Cally House. The garden has been replanted with a unique labelled collection of 3,500 varieties, including rare perennials and grasses.

Thanks to its rich soil and location on the glorious south west coast of Scotland, which is blessed by the Gulf Stream, this region has a vast array of different gardens boasting a variety of plants.

Every walk through one of these gardens will be a breathtaking experience, full of colour and splendour.

This region is the perfect place for exotic plants, such as the Cabbage Palm and other southern hemisphere plants, and for flora that’s more recognisably Scottish.

The mixture of climates in the region has attracted a host of imaginative gardeners and plant-hunters whose work in different periods and styles can still be seen today.

Make sure to visit the specialist nurseries, such as Buckland Plants, near Kirkcudbright, after touring these beautiful gardens to pick up some plants to take home to your own garden. This nursery supplies many large gardens including the National Trust for Scotland and the Royal Horticultural Society.

Visit one of the country’s largest family-run garden centres, Garden Wise, in Dumfries, to browse plants and gifts, and visit the café.

Elmlea Plants in Old Minnigaff offers an interesting selection of herbaceous perennials, grasses, and a wide range of particularly unusual plants.

Must-see Threave Garden has over 200 varieties

of daffodil in spring.

Glenwhan Garden was created over 30 years.

Hetland Garden Centre has a 73 ft wooden bridge.

Craigieburn Garden once entranced Robert Burns.

Ardwell Gardens is a formal arrangement around Ardwell House.

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01 Ardwell Gardens, by Stranraer.02 Glenwhan Garden, Dunragit.03 The fishpond, Logan Botanic Garden.04 Water feature, Threave Garden, Castle Douglas.05 Logan House Gardens, Port Logan.

• Spend a relaxing few hours in the exotic paradise of Logan Botanic Garden, Port Logan, where the warm air provides the right climate for an amazing collection of southern hemisphere plants.

• See the focal point of the garden, the fishpond, which is adorned with water lilies before taking a stroll to the highest point of the Botanic Garden, for views out across the Rhins to the Galloway Hills and beyond.

• The seasonally inspiring gardens at Threave House and Estate, near Castle Douglas, have been created over the years by students of the National Trust for Scotland’s School of Practical Gardening. Constantly evolving, the gardens provide spectacular colour all year round, including stunning red and orange leaved trees in the autumn.

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Dalswinton House www.scotlandsgardens.org – opens for charity


Gardens and nurseries

Head out into the great outdoors of Dumfries & Galloway at any time of year and take a walk. Soak up the impressive scenery and look out for wildlife in the water and on the land at National Nature Reserves and in National Scenic Areas.

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A wildlife haven

You might be lucky enough to see ospreys, red deer, barnacle geese and common lizards – the longer you spend looking, the more you are likely to see.

A walk through the Galloway Forest Park could reward you with a sighting of the stunning red deer. Take a guided walk with one of the expert wildlife rangers between June and September, while in October you can be part of the Roaring Stags event – when you’ll see them looking handsome but determined, in a bid to become top deer.

Keep your eyes peeled for the wild goat park along the A712 Queen’s Way. Continue your journey around the park and you could see red squirrels, black grouse, otters and nightjars.

Travel out to the far south west point of the region to visit the Mull of Galloway RSPB Reserve which offers not only fascinating wildlife but breathtaking views. Gaze out to the west and you’ll see the Solway Firth and Irish Sea with the Isle of Man in the distance. You’ll also see the frantic activity of a large cliff colony of seabirds from guillemots to razorbills and kittiwakes.

• You can watch ospreys at three Dumfries & Galloway locations – Wigtown Bay, Threave and Caerlaverock.

• The unspoilt countryside of the region protects a wide range of rare and endangered species including a fifth of the Scottish population of red squirrels. Deep in the Dalbeattie Forest follow the waymarked Red Squirrel Walk and look out for the curious creatures bounding through the trees.

• The natterjack toad, the rarest amphibian in Britain, is a star of the Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve. From May to September, ask a warden if they can show you one of these nocturnal creatures as they rest up for the day.

Visit the red kite feeding station at Bellymack Hill Farm, Laurieston, at 2pm each day.

Enjoy four Wild Seasons festivals during the year.

Spot the elusive purple hairstreak butterfly at Lochwood Oaks, near Moffat.

Dumfries & Galloway


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A wildlife haven

See the majestic red kites with their distinctive forked tails on the Galloway Kite Trail around the beautiful Loch Ken and follow the footpaths to viewpoints to find out more.

Visit the Galloway Wildlife Conservation Park, Kirkcudbright to see their fantastic collection of native and exotic animals amongst 27 acres of mixed woodland. Look out for 150 animals from all over the world in a peaceful and natural setting including Asian small clawed otters, meerkats and Scottish wildcats.

See the spectacular 1,400 acre wild reserve of Caerlaverock Wetland Centre and in the open landscape and wide skies you can see many exciting varieties of birds and creatures. The cooler months see vast flocks of barnacle geese living on the Solway’s saltflats and merses, while in spring you can watch ospreys and in summer, see barn owls in and around their nests via CCTV.

01 Red squirrel at Kirroughtree.02 Clatteringshaws Loch, in Galloway Forest Park.03 Red Kite Trail signpost, Parton.04 Osprey in flight at Caerlaverock.05 Barn owl at Caerlaverock NNR.

RSPB Mersehead has thousands of geese arriving during the autumn season.

Follow the Butterfly Walk at Kirkconnell Flow National Nature Reserve.

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Did youknow?

Kirroughtree Visitor Centre has live CCTV

of red squirrels.

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You can order our brochure 12 Wildlife Walks at www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk


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Spend a few days exploring the castles and museums of Dumfries & Galloway to gain a great insight into how people lived in the past, from the food created at the mill, to the mines where they worked and the castles they defended.

Discover a land rich in history

Dumfries & Galloway


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You can still hear the sounds of the waterwheel moving and operating the machinery at New Abbey Corn Mill, which remains as it was left by the last miller over 50 years ago.

Discover a land rich in history

01 Threave Castle, River Dee near Castle Douglas.02 Cairn Holy Chambered Cairns, near Creetown.03 Dumfries Camera Obscura.04 Caerlaverock Castle, near Dumfries.

The region is home to many striking stone castles including Caerlaverock Castle, a medieval fortress with a turbulent history. Look around the moat, twin-towered gatehouse and imposing battlements and visit the siege warfare exhibition to discover its important role in the defence of the realm. The triangular shape of the castle is unique and a walk around it gives you a full sense of the strength, form and pleasing geometry.

Find out the region’s most fascinating tales in a selection of museums. At the Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura you can learn all about the land and people of the region. See the fossil footprints left by prehistoric animals and gaze at the tools and weapons of the earliest people. Find out about the wildlife of the Solway and look at the stone carvings made by Scotland’s first Christians.

Spend the afternoon at the Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum and see the restored control tower of the former WWII airfield. Wander around the displays and ever-expanding collection of aircraft, aero engines and personal histories and see a mock up of a WWII living room and a mixed assortment of memorabilia.

• Sweetheart Abbey, New Abbey, is a splendid ruin of a late 13th century abbey which was built by Lady Devorgilla in memory of her husband and is thought to have inspired the creation of the word sweetheart.

• In Dumfries’ 18th century watermill, you can find the Robert Burns Centre, which brings his story to life with original manuscripts and personal belongings. There is also a brilliant scale model of Dumfries in the 1790s and a haunting audio-visual presentation.

• You can enjoy a drink in the Globe Inn in Dumfries, which was established in 1610 and frequented regularly by Robert Burns.

Other key historic sites across Dumfries & Galloway include several stone circles, such as the Twelve Apostles just north of Dumfries, believed to be one of the largest stone circles on mainland Britain.

Follow in the footsteps of thousands of couples and make your way to Gretna Green, where you can visit the Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop. Enter the ancient cottage and workshop from the days when people crossed the border to take advantage of Scotland’s lenient marriage laws. See letters, telegrams and marriage certificates of people from all ages who defied their friends and family, and stand in the actual room where they were married.

Get a fascinating insight into what life was like for the people of Dumfries & Galloway during the World Wars at the Devil’s Porridge Exhibition. Over 30,000 people were employed in a munitions factory which stretched 9 miles from Dornock to Longtown with an output greater than all other British factories combined. The exhibition tells the story of this remarkable venture and the secret cities which were created to accommodate its workers.

Did youknow?

Threave Castle can only be reached by boat. Ring the bell for the

custodian.

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Scotland has many stunning landscapes, striking castles and culture which may have inspired the creators of Disney•Pixar’s Brave and you’ll find plenty of these attractions and tales in Dumfries & Galloway.

The country has a rich history of clan identity, and Clan Douglas has called Dumfries & Galloway home for hundreds of years. Threave Castle fortress is a former stronghold of the Black Douglases, while Drumlanrig Castle was built by William Douglas, first Duke of Queensberry, in the 17th century.

The region’s fascinating history is also evident at abbeys such as Dundrennan and Glenluce, which both have ties to Mary Queen of Scots.

The former home of a community of Cistercian monks, Dundrennan Abbey has north and south transepts which are well preserved examples of Cistercian architecture from the late 12th century.

You can see several stone circles in the region and the Cairn Holy Chambered Cairns, which is near the route of the Solway Coast Heritage Trail.

The ancient Ruthwell Cross stands some 18 ft high and is the focal point inside the beautiful Ruthwell church, near Dumfries. Featuring intricate inscriptions in both Latin and, more unusually for a Christian monument, the runic alphabet, the Ruthwell Cross is inscribed with one of the largest figurative inscriptions found on any surviving Anglo-Saxon cross.

Research your own clan

history at Dumfries &

Galloway Libraries

Dumfries & Galloway


The Robert the Bruce Trail takes you back 700 years covering where he grew up, how he was influenced by people and where he forged his skills. The main trail is split into three, with an eastern, central and western section, while there is also a Dumfries Town Trail.

Where legends come to life

Believed to date from the fifth or early sixth century, the Kirkmadrine Early Christian Stones are on display in the porch of the Kirkmadrine Burial Chapel. The oldest stone is a pillar stone erected around AD 500 to mark the graves of priests serving a Christian community close to Kirkmadrine.

01 Dundrennan Abbey.02 Red kites at Laurieston.03 Ruthwell Cross, within Ruthwell Church.04 Bruce’s Stone, Loch Trool.05 Kirkmadrine Church, near Sandhead.

• The region is home to Galloway Forest Park, the largest of its kind in Britain and the UK’s first Dark Sky Park. During the day visitors can discover a rich variety of wildlife including red squirrels. Look out for the wild goat park and see majestic stags in the red deer range.

• The red kite is one of the most beautiful birds of prey, which was once almost extinct in Scotland. You can spot the birds along the Galloway Red Kite Trail.

• Visit the hides and observation towers at WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre and the migrating geese and ospreys at Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve.

See the cave in Kirkpatrick Fleming, where legend says that around 1307, after suffering defeat, Robert the Bruce went into hiding for three months but was inspired back into battle by a spider’s relentless effort to spin its web.

The small town of Whithorn in the west of the region has many connections with the beginning of Christianity in Scotland. Bishop and missionary St Ninian is believed to have trained in Rome before founding the first Christian church in Whithorn in the fifth century. Thousands of pilgrims journeyed to the town to pay their respects to him long after he had died in 431 and are believed to have left carvings on the walls of St Ninian’s Cave, dating back to the eighth century.

Some walkers take the time to visit the cascading Grey Mare’s Tail near Moffat, a spectacular natural waterfall that you can see from the main road, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb carefully up to get close to its source, Loch Skene. The dramatic sheer drop along the sides of the fall makes caution essential, but it is well worth the effort.

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Merida was an expert archer, try it yourself at Galloway Activity Centre

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Naturally inspired creativity

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The beautiful landscape of Dumfries & Galloway has been inspiring artists, writers, inventors and craftsmen for hundreds of years and there are many galleries and venues where you can see their work.

Experience the culture of Dumfries & Galloway in the Artists’ Town of Kirkcudbright, which was the home of an established artists’ colony in the 19th and 20th centuries. Visit the Tolbooth Art Centre to discover the story of the town’s artists and see their work on display, including paintings of the Tolbooth itself, by the famous Scottish colourist SJ Peploe and David Gauld, one of the Glasgow Boys.

Visit the 18th century town house, Broughton House, where another of the Glasgow Boys used to live. EA Hornel used the building as his home and studio for over 30 years and many of his paintings are on display.

On the top of the hills at Cairnhead above Moniaive, you’ll find a series of red sandstone arches, known as the Striding Arches, created by local artist Andy Goldsworthy. In the heart of the glen, one arch springs up from a disused farm building, the Byre, where you can take a seat and soak up the beautiful landscape which surrounds you. The arches signify a powerful and sensitive meeting of art and nature which has gone on to inspire other artists to create art in wonderful locations.

• Famous Scottish poet Hugh MacDiarmid grew up in the town of Langholm and on nearby Whita Hill you can find a monument in his honour, in the form of a large, cast-iron open book depicting images from his works.

• Enjoy the annual art exhibition organised by Kirkcudbright 2000 in the town hall. The group has been running exhibitions of national significance for 13 years.

• See hand-thrown ceramics created by the ‘singing potter’ at Moffat Pottery. Browse a range of beautifully made pots and pick up a CD of gospel music.

Dumfries & Galloway


Highlights Each of the 7stanes has a sculpture

which depicts a local myth or legend.

The Castle Douglas Art Gallery showcases a varied programme of contemporary art exhibitions and craft work.

In May, the Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival sees a number of activities happening in venues across the region – enjoy classical, jazz or folk music, dance, theatre and children’s events.

The Spring Fling event involves around 80 arts and craft studios opening their doors to the public in May with special events, workshops and tours taking place from studio to studio.

Naturally inspired creativity

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Don’t miss... Dalton Pottery Art Café, Dalton,

near Lockerbie.

Harbour Cottage Gallery, Kirkcudbright.

Kirkcudbright Art & Crafts Trail in August.

Mode and Designs Galleries in Castle Douglas.

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Did youknow?

You can order a brochure with details of 12 Walks...with an arty twist. See our

website for details.

Admire Erratic, Hush, Heart, Ocean and Scene Shifter – five sculptures by Matt Baker which are dotted across Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve. Each piece is created around a word and accompanied by a poem by Mary Smith.

Throughout the Galloway Forest Park, you can discover art if you look for it. Many pieces can be found on the main routes, while some are hidden away. Starting from Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre, see if you can find the earthwork labyrinth, Journey, on the Raider’s Road, and Eye, the spire beside the Black Loch.

Art isn’t just found in the countryside – in the middle of Creetown, in Adamson Square, you can see the result of a project to bring culture and heritage together in the heart of the town with internationally renowned sculptor Hideo Furuta’s giant sphere.

01 Couch installation by Alice Francis, Spring Fling 2012.02 Former home of celebrated artists in Kirkcudbright.03 Gem Stane at Kirroughtree 7stanes.04 Gerald Lyons, the ‘singing potter’.05 Matt Baker’s Hush sculpture, Cairnsmore of Fleet NNR.


visitscotland.com/wheretofindusInformation Centres

Open All Year

Open April until October

Information Point in Partnership with VisitScotland. Plotted on the relevant area maps see pages 70 and 71

Some Centres may not offer all services listed

Find all you want to do in Dumfries & Gallowayin one place.

For inspiration and ideas on how to make the most of your time in Dumfries & Galloway call in to a VisitScotland Information Centre. Our friendly experts can offer advice on all things local as well as sharing their wider knowledge of Scotland. Ask and you’ll find all the hidden gems, from cultural to culinary. We don’t just advise either. We can sort out your accommodation and all your travel needs, as well as tickets for events across Scotland. So if you’re looking to get the most from your visit, call in and see us - we’ll point you in the right direction.

Castle Douglas Market Hill Car Park, Castle Douglas DG7 1AE - 01556 502611

Dumfries 64 Whitesands, Dumfries DG1 2RS - 01387 253862

Gretna Unit 38, Gateway Outlet Village DG16 5GG - 01461 337834

Kirkcudbright Harbour Square, Kirkcudbright DG6 4HY - 01557 330494

Newton Stewart Dashwood Square, Newton Stewart DG8 6EQ - 01671 402431

Stranraer 28 Harbour Street, Stranraer DG9 7RA - 01776 702595

THE SIGN

OF QUALITY

Caerlaverock Castle, 5-star Castle, near Dumfries

For more information on Quality Assurance or comments on star awarded properties please contact us: VisitScotland, Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3BJ. Email. [email protected] or [email protected] or visit www.visitscotland.com/qa

Call into any VisitScotland Information Centre for further information www.visitscotland.com/wheretofindus

o it is clean, tidy and an acceptable standard

oo it is a good, all round standard

ooo it is a very good standard, with attention to detail in every area

oooo it is excellent – furnished using high quality materials, superb food where provided and friendly, professional service

ooooo an exceptional standard where presentation, ambience, food where provided and service are hard to fault

It should be noted that establishments that fail to meet our minimum standards will not be awarded a star rating.

Establishments awarded gold stars have consistently achieved the highest levels of excellence within their star grading.

Access all areas – The following symbols will help visitors with physical disabilities assess if businesses are suitable:

$ Unassisted wheelchair access % Assisted wheelchair access & Access for visitors with mobility difficulties

Because we care – www.green-business.co.uk

Businesses that work in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way are graded:

Bronze , Silver ß or Gold ©

The very best of food and drink – www.visitscotland.com/foodanddrinkWe assess the presentation, quality and service of food in every kind of eating establishment in Scotland from fish and chip shops to pubs, takeaways and top class restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly bar or a romantic restaurant, EatScotland gives a reliable, authoritative and comprehensive guide to eating out in Scotland.

Only those operators who meet the EatScotland quality standards are accredited to the scheme so look out for the logo ‰ to ensure you visit some of Scotland’s best, quality eating establishments.

Those with extra special standards of food are awarded EatScotland Silver Í or Gold Ì.

You’ll be surprised where our search for quality takes usQuite simply, it takes us the length and breadth of Scotland to visit thousands of different properties every year and grade them on the things we know matter to you. Things like the standard of hospitality, service, and customer care to help you make a more informed choice. VisitScotland Quality Assurance. Quality you can trust.

How to read the listings

The listings within this guide have been split into the following sections:

• Places to Visit • Shopping• Events & Festivals • Tours• Leisure Activities • Local Services• Food & Drink • Family Fun

Businesses within these sections are listed in alphabetical order by business location, then by business name. Each entry has a map reference (see example) relating to the map which appears on pages 70-71 of this guide. The map is helpful if you don’t know where a particular location is in relation to the area that interests you. The majority of entries will have a postcode which can be used to pin point exact location. Where businesses are listed as being ‘By’ a town or village it is wise to check the exact location with the operator before making your journey. Some listings have a distance beside the location; this indicates the approximate road distance in miles from the main location. These mileages are voluntarily provided by the businesses themselves.

PricingWhere prices of admission, services and facilities are included in entries, these are based on information received from the relevant advertisers. Please note that prices include VAT where applicable and are for your guidance only (VAT as at December 2012).

SmokingThe majority of Scotland’s indoor public places, including pubs, restaurants and cafés, are smoke-free by law, creating a healthier and fresher environment for residents and visitors to our beautiful country. For further information, visitwww.clearingtheairscotland.com

ƒ Family FunThere is a wealth of things to see and do that will keep smiles on faces all day and boredom at bay. Attractions which are particularly suitable for children have been highlighted within this guide. Please note this icon is not verified by VisitScotland Quality and Standards Department.

E Assistance DogsThe new Equality Act 2010 protects anybodywho has or has had a disability and peoplewho experience discrimination because theyare linked or associated with a disabled person. In respect of assistance dogs the law quite clearly states that to refuse admission to a registered assistance dog is now unlawful and constitutes discrimination under the Equality Act 2012 under three possible categories: 1: discrimination arising from a disability; 2: indirect discrimination and3: disability harassment. VisitScotland is committed to equality of opportunity and is working through its Accessible Tourism Project to educate and inform all our customers about the requirements under the law. We have encouraged all our business customers to use the assistance dog symbol in order to comply with law, or make it clear in a statement that they welcome all assistance dogs. It is always advisable to check with each establishment prior to booking.

v Hearing LoopInduction loop and infrared systems help people with hearing loss hear more clearly by reducing the effect of background noise. When a building has been fitted with a loop or infrared system, you will usually find this mentioned in their adverts, newsletters and at the entrance to the building. Informative signs and symbols should be displayed such as the loop sign above, it is always worth asking if it is not obvious. Please note this icon is not verified by VisitScotland Quality and Standards Department.

, Dogs WelcomeDogs are welcome to this establishment, on the understanding that they are on their leash andare kept under control. You may have to check with each establishment whether there are restricted areas for your dog. Please note this icon is not verified by VisitScotland Quality and Standards Department.

Further informationFor further information go towww.visitscotland.com

The mapTo help you fi nd your way around, a grid reference at the top right hand corner of each listing corresponds to the large map on pages 70-71. This map includes all the numbered listings in the guide, colour coded by interest, as well as handy information such as road numbers, VisitScotland Information Centres and train stations.

Please note each attraction has one number but may appear within more than one section of the guide, depending on the type of attraction. For example, if an attraction is especially good for all the family, they may appear within the ‘Family fun’ pages as well as the section covering ‘Places to visit’ or ‘Leisure activities’. The number remains constant within all entries for this attraction, and the number on the map will be coloured according to the fi rst appearance of the attraction/activity provider within the guide.

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22 ANY LOCATION (4 miles) F3Scott GardensKinross KY22 9YR T: 01599 862655 www.scottgardens.co.ukBeautiful 18th century gardens with café and popular daily events, overlooking one of Scotland’s famous lochs. Plenty to see and do for all the family. 44

444

oooo Visitor Attraction &©‰ƒ

Open: Mar-Jun: Centre open 10am-5pm. Sep-Dec: Centre open 9.30am-4pm. Closed Christmas and New Year.

Admission: Adult £3, Concs £2, Child £0.50, Family £6. Car parking £5 all day.

EXAMPLEgardens.co.ukgardens.co.ukutiful 18th century garutiful 18th century garpopular daily popular daily of Scoof Sco

Contact details

Facilities and symbolsSee page 17 and below for details.

Map referenceTo assist you further in locating each business, this grid reference relates to the map on pages 70-71.

Name of business

Quality AwardWhere a Quality Assurance award has been included on an entry, the business has been graded by VisitScotland and provides assurances on quality and standards. The scheme is explained on page 17 of this guide.

Business description

Opening times andadmission prices

Attraction numberAll places of interest and activity providers are plotted on the map on pages 70-71 and cross refer to this number within the listings.

Location‘By’ designates that a property is within 10 miles of this location. Mileage in brackets after the location indicates the distance from the named location.


Art Galleries

1 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4

Castle Douglas Art GalleryMarket Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1BE(adjacent to Castle Douglas Library) T/F: 01557 331643 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsGallery of widely exhibited artist Angela Lawrence showing frequently changing displays of her contemporary but accessible land and seascape paintings, and more. Commissions, quality prints, calendars and art gifts based on Angela Lawrence’s work also available.

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ƒE

Open: Opening times variable according to the exhibition programme.

Admission: Free.

Join us in the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 as we celebrate Scotland’s natural heritage. Plan your trip and experience it for yourself!

www.visitscotland.com/natural

2 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4

Clience StudioAt the Clock Tower, 212 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DS T: 01556 504318 M: 0790 230 1883 [email protected] www.cliencestudio.co.ukGALLERY of widely exhibited artist ANGELA LAWRENCE showing frequently changing displays of her contemporary but accessible land and seascape paintings, and more. Commissions, quality prints, calendars and art gifts based on Angela Lawrence’s work also available.

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7

Open: All year. Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm (core hours).

Admission: Free.

ƒ

3 DUMFRIES F4

Gracefield Arts Centre28 Edinburgh Road, Dumfries DG1 1JQ T: 01387 262084 F: 01387 255173 [email protected] local, national and international contemporary art and craft exhibitions, plus selected exhibitions from our collection of Scottish Art. Excellent café, craft shop, family activities, spacious grounds and parking makes Gracefield a great all year attraction.

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ooo Arts Venue

Admission: Free.

4 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Kirkcudbright Harbour Cottage Gallery TrustCastle Bank, Kirkcudbright T: 01557 330073Oldest art gallery in the artist town of Kirkcudbright. We specialise in showing original works of local artists working thoughout the year in the town and area.

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Open: Mar-Dec: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-12.30pm, 2-5pm; Sun 2-5pm.

Admission: Adult £1, Child free, Conc 75p.

Arts Attractions

5 CAIRNHEAD FOREST, by MONIAIVE E3Striding ArchesT: 01387 247010 www.stridingarches.comA hugely innovative artist-led project which celebrates and interprets a little-known area of Dumfries & Galloway. Andy Goldsworthy’s red sandstone arches ‘stride’ around the natural amphitheatre that is Cairnhead, deep in the Southern Uplands. In the heart of the glen, another arch springs from a disused farm building, The Byre, creating a place that is both sculpture and shelter. Admission free.

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6 By LANGHOLM H3MacDiarmid MemorialLangholmGigantic metallic “open book” on hillside above town, dedicated to Hugh MacDiarmid poet, joint founder of the SNP, and lover of Scotland.

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For a list of exciting eventstaking place throughoutDumfries & Gallowaysee pages 54-55

Robert Burns

7 DUMFRIES F4

Robert Burns CentreMill Road, Dumfries DG2 7BE T: 01387 264808 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsAward-winning visitor centre telling story of connections between Robert Burns and the town of Dumfries.

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ooo Visitor Attraction ƒE

8 DUMFRIES F4

Robert Burns HouseBurns Street, Dumfries DG1 2PS T: 01387 255297 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsThe simple sandstone house in which Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, spent the last years of his brilliant life.

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ooo Museum ƒE


Great days out – Places to Visit

9 HOLYWOOD, by DUMFRIES E3

Ellisland FarmHolywood, Dumfries DG2 0RP T: 01387 740426 [email protected] www.ellislandfarm.co.ukFarmhouse and steading reflecting the poet’s farming and literary life. Riverside walk, farming exhibits, heritage trail.

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ooo Visitor Attraction ƒ&

Open: All year. Apr-Sep: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun 2-5pm. Oct-Mar: Tues-Sat, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm.

Admission: Adult £4, Child free, Concs/Bus parties £3.

Castles

10 By PORTPATRICK A5Dunskey Castle0.5 miles south of Portpatrick. Impressive early c16th castle ruins on a dramatic cliff top setting. Dunskey Castle is located on the coastal path from Portpatrick. Please note there is no access to the castle interior. Care is needed if visiting as the cliffs here are steep and dangerous and you are advised to stay on the path. For further information contact the curator on T: 01776 705088.Admission free.

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11 STRANRAER A4

Castle of St JohnCharlotte Street, Stranraer, Wigtownshire DG9 7JEJ T: 01776 705088 F: 01776 705835 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsRecently renovated tower-house in the centre of Stranraer which over the years has been used as a family house, a military garrison and a prison. Superb views from the castle’s roof.

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Open: Jun-mid Sep. Tue-Sat: 10am-1pm, 1.30-4.30pm.

Admission: Free.

12 By THORNHILL E2Drumlanrig Castle & Country EstateThornhill DG3 4AQ T: 01848 331555 [email protected] www.drumlanrig.comCastle, gardens, country park, Scottish Bicycle Museum, adventure playground, walking, mountain biking, cycling, wildlife, events. (See display advert on page 64). 23

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ooooo Castle ßª&

Open: Castle: 23 Mar-31 Aug: daily, 11am-4pm (last entry). Gardens & Country Estate: 23 Mar-30 Sep: daily, 10am-5pm.

Admission: Visit website for 2013 charges.

Gardens and Nurseries

13 By CASTLE DOUGLAS E4

Threave Garden, House & Estate (NTS)Off A75, 1 mile west of Castle Douglas DG7 1RX T: 0844 493 2245 www.nts.org.ukMagnificent 64 acre garden for all seasons, with interest all year round. See main rooms of Threave House and explore wider estate with trails, bird hides and wildfowl sanctuary. Visitor centre with shop and restaurant. (See display advert on back cover).

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oooo Garden ß%

Countryside Centre, Restaurant, Shop, Plant Centre

14 CASTLE KENNEDY, STRANRAER A4

Castle Kennedy & GardensCastle Kennedy, Stranraer DG9 8SJ T: 01776 702024 F: 01776 706248 [email protected] www.castlekennedygardens.co.ukHistoric, beautiful landscaped gardens set between two large natural lochs with year-round interest, including snowdrops, banks of spring flowers, magnificent rhododendron and magnolia displays, rare plants, a herbaceous garden and the romantic ruined Castle Kennedy. (See display advert on page 61).

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oooo Garden &ƒ,

Open: 1 Apr-31 Oct: daily, 10am-5pm. Feb-Mar: weekends only, 10am-5pm.

Admission: Adult £5, Child £1.50, Concs £3.50, Family £11.

15 DUNRAGIT, by STRANRAER B4Glenwhan GardensDunragit, by Stranraer DG9 8PH T/F: 01581 400222 M: 0778 799 0702 [email protected] www.glenwhangardens.co.ukSpectacular views in magnificent scenery. A plantsman’s paradise. Moorland walks, varied wildlife, tearoom and plant centre. 28

391

oooo Garden &

Open: 1 Apr-30 Oct: Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm. (Tearooms closed end Sep but entry by honesty box.)

Admission: Adult £5, Child £1.20, Concs £4, Family £12. RHS Members free from 1 Aug-end Oct.

16 GARLIESTON C5Galloway House GardensGarlieston, Newton Stewart DG8 8HF T: 01988 600680 [email protected] www.gallowayhousegardens.co.ukAn outstanding coastal spring garden including many woodland walks leading to a large sandy beach. 27

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Open: All year. 9am-5pm (Walled garden closed for 2013 season).

Admission: Adult £2, Child £1, Concs £1, Family £5. Parking Meter £2/car. Further donations at collection box.

17 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Broughton House & GardenThe National Trust for Scotland 12 High Street, Kirkcudbright T: 0844 493 2246 www.nts.org.ukEnchanting garden with Japanese influences, developed behind Broughton House by EA Hornel. 63

563

oooo Historic House ß

Open: House & Garden: 23 Mar-31 Oct: Mon-Sun, 12noon-5pm. Garden only: 1 Feb-22 Mar, Mon-Fri, 11am-4pm.

Admission: Adult £6.50, Concs £5, Family £16.50.

18 KIRKCUDBRIGHT (1 mile) D5

Elizabeth MacGregor's Nursery at EllenbankEllenbank, Tongland Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4UU T: 01557 330620 M: 0794 154 6228 [email protected] www.elizabethmacgregornursery.co.ukCottage garden plant nursery with a large range of unusual hardy plants for sale, including many bred and introduced on site. Delightful half acre walled garden. Winner of many RHS Gold Medals.

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Other times by arrangement.

19 NEWTONAIRDS, by DUMFRIES E3Newtonairds Lodge Hostas & GardenNewtonairds Lodge, Newtonairds T: 01387 820203 [email protected] Collection within plantsman’s garden, topiary punctuated borders packed with unusual plantings of perennials. Some plant sales.

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Open: Last Sunday in May-end Aug. Sun & Mon only 11am-5pm. Groups and coaches by arrangement.

Admission: Adult £3.

Places to Visit


20 OLD MINNIGAFF, NEWTON STEWART C4

Elmlea PlantsOld Minnigaff, Newton Stewart DG8 6PX T: 01671 402514 [email protected] www.elmleaplants.co.uk Family-run nursery specialising in herbaceous perennials and grasses. We offer a friendly, personal service and are happy to provide advice. Although our nursery is small, we offer a diverse selection of plants.

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Open: Apr-Oct: Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm.Admission: Free.

Pop into a VisitScotland Information Centre and pick up a free copy of

Dumfries & GallowayWhat to See & Do Guide

Montain bikers at Kirroughtree 7stanes

21 PORTPATRICK A5Dunskey Gardens & MazePortpatrick, Wigtownshire DG9 8TJ T: 01776 810905 [email protected] www.dunskey.comCharming 18C plantsmans, walled and woodland gardens and maze; tearoom with terrace shop, plant sales.

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oooo Garden %

Open: Feb/Mar some weekends only. Easter-Oct: daily, 10am-5pm.Admission: Adult £5, Child (under 14) £2, Concs £4.20, Family £12,

Season Ticket £15.

12 By THORNHILL E2Drumlanrig Castle & Country EstateThornhill DG3 4AQ T: 01848 331555 [email protected] www.drumlanrig.com40 acres of gardens – Victorian glasshouse, plant centre, Rhododendron collection, Heather houses and woodland garden. (See display advert on page 64). 23

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ooooo Castle ßª&



22 By WHITHORN C5

Claymoddie Garden & Galloway PlantsClaymoddie, Whithorn DG8 8LX T: 01988 500422 [email protected] www.gallowayplants.co.ukRomantically landscaped all-seasons garden. Wide and exciting variety of meticulously positioned plants, old favourites and exotica from southern hemisphere and elsewhere. Vast range of plants available from Galloway Plants, all propagated from Claymoddie Garden’s stock.

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by appointment.

of 10 or more.

Historic Homesand Attractions

23 CANONBIE H4Scot’s DykeA7, 2 miles south of Canonbie. c16thA trench and dyke, dug to mark the Border between Scotland and England at a time when feuds raged over the “Debatable Lands”. Restricted access. Open all year. Admission free.

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24 By CANONBIE H4Gilnockie TowerHollows, Canonbie DG14 0XD T/F: 01387 371876 M: 0777 625 6970 [email protected]‘First Foot’ moon.Armstrong carpet.Reiver ghost.Guided tour at 2.30pm. 19

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Open: 1 Apr-30 Sep. Other times by appointment. Guided tour daily at 2.30pm.

Admission: Adult £5, Child £2.50, OAP £2.50.

25 CARSLUITH C5Cairn Holy Chambered Cairns, Historic Scotland6.5 miles south east of Creetown T: 0131 668 8600 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesDating back to about 2000 BC. Impressive remains of two chambered cairns. Open all year. Admission free.

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26 By CASTLE DOUGLAS D4Threave Castle, Historic ScotlandA75 3 miles W of Castle Douglas DG7 1TJ T: 0771 122 3101 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesMassive tower, on an island in the River Dee. Ring the bell and the custodian will ferry you over. 65

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oooo Castle ß

Open: Apr-Oct: 1 Apr-30 Sep, daily, 9.30am-5pm. Last entry 4.30pm. Oct: Daily 9.30am-4pm. Last entry 3.30pm.

Admission: Adult £4.50, Child £2.70, Conc £3.60.

27 DUMFRIES F4King Robert The Bruce PlaqueA plaque on the wall at the bus stops in Burns Square, Dumfries marks the position of Grey Friars Monastery, where Robert the Bruce, in 1306, stabbed John ‘The Red Comyn’, a rival claimant to the throne of Scotland. Open all year.

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28 DUMFRIES F4Lincluden Collegiate Church, Historic ScotlandOn the western outskirts of Dumfries in Abbey Lane on the A76. T: 0131 668 8600 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesRemains of a collegiate church and accommodation for its canons. Founded 1389 by Archibald the Grim, 3rd Earl of Douglas. The splendid chancel, probably added by his son Archibald, the 4th Earl, houses the exquisite monumental tomb of his wife.

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Open: All year. Open site.Admission: Free.

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29 DUMFRIES F4The Mid SteepleDominating the High Street, the Mid Steeple was built in the early c18th and it forms the backdrop for the climax of the annual “Guid Nychburris” festival in June. View from outside only. Open all year.

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30 By DUMFRIES E3Twelve Apostles Situated beside B729, 400m from A76The largest stone circle on the Scottish mainland. Park beside first road on left and walk 100m to waymarker and stile. Open all year. Admission free.

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THROUGHOUT DUMFRIES & GALLOWAYThe Robert The Bruce Commemoration Trust [email protected] www.brucetrust.co.uk26 trail sites commemorating King Robert the Bruce. Leaflets & guide books at tourist outlets.

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Open: All year (outdoors).Admission: No charge for trail. (Charges for properties on the trail, such

these.)

31 DUNDRENNAN E5Dundrennan Abbey, Historic ScotlandDundrennan, A711, 6.5 miles south east of Kirkcudbright DG6 4QH T: 01557 500262 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesMary Queen of Scots spent her last night on Scottish soil in this Cistercian abbey founded by David I. Built in c12th, the abbey stands in a small, secluded valley, its remoteness in keeping with the strict rules of the Cistercian order.

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oooo Historic Attraction ß&

Open: All year. 1 Apr-30 Sept: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm. 1-31 Mar: Sat-Sun, 9.30am-4.30pm.

Admission: Adult £4.50, Conc £3.60, Child £2.70.

32 ECCLEFECHAN G4Thomas Carlyle’s BirthplaceThe National Trust for ScotlandThe Arched House, Ecclefechan DG11 3DG Off M74, 5.5 miles south east of Lockerbie. T: 0844 493 2247Birthplace of the great writer, historian, and one of Britain’s most influential thinkers. Furnished to reflect domestic life around 1795, including a collection of portraits and belongings.

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oooo Visitor Attraction ß

Open: 29 Mar-1 Apr; Fri-Mon, 12noon-4pm. 1 Jun-30 Sep; Fri-Mon, 12noon-4pm.

Admission: Adult £3.50, Concs £2.50, Family £9.



33 By ECCLEFECHAN G4Burnswark T:01671 4024203 miles north of Ecclefechan. From about c6th B.C. A native hilltop earthwork flanked by two Roman siege camps of about c2nd A.D.Open all year. Admission free. 23

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34 By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5Cardoness CastleA75, 1 mile south west of Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EH T: 01557 814427 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesA well-preserved six storey tower house of the McCullochs dating back to the 15th century. Its battlements command excellent views over Fleet Bay. Look out for the splendid fireplaces in the great and upper halls.

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oooo Castle ß

Open: All year. 1 Apr-30 Sep: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm. 1 Oct-31 Mar: Sat-Sun, 9.30am-4.30pm.

Admission: Adult £4.50, Conc £3.60, Child £2.70.

35 By GLENCAPLE, DUMFRIES F4Caerlaverock Castle Historic ScotlandB725 8 miles SE of Dumfries DG1 4RU T: 01387 770244 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesWith its moat and battlements, the epitome of the medieval stronghold. Exhibition, shop, nature trail and more. 65

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ooooo Castle ©&

Open: All year. 1 Apr-30 Sep: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm. 1 Oct-31 Mar: daily, 9.30am-4.30pm.Admission: Adult £5.50, Child £3.30, Conc £4.40.

36 By GLENLUCE B4Glenluce Abbey, Historic Scotland Off A75, 2 miles north west of Glenluce DG8 0AF T: 01581 300541 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesFounded by Roland, Earl of Galloway in 1192, the ruins of this Cistercian house occupy a site of great natural beauty. Visited by Robert the Bruce and James IV. Mary Queen of Scots stayed here during a royal progress. 65

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oooo Historic Attraction ß&

Open: Apr-Sep. 1 Apr-30 Sep: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm.Admission: Adult £4.50, Conc £3.60, Child £2.70.

37 By HAUGH OF URR, DALBEATTIE E4Motte of Urr Off B794, 2.5 mls N of Dalbeattiec12th. Over 5 acres in extent, this motte and bailey earthwork castle is the most extensive in Scotland. Open all year. Admission free. 23

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38 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5MacLellan’s Castle, Historic Scotland A711 Kirkcudbright DG26 4JD T: 01557 331856 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesBuilt in 1577 using stone from an adjoining ruined monastery by the then Provost, Sir Thomas MacLellan, this castellated town house has fine architectural details.

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oooo Castle ß

Open: Apr-Sep. 1 Apr-30 Sep: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm.Admission: Adult £4.50, Conc £3.60, Child £2.70.

39 NEW ABBEY F4New Abbey Corn Mill Historic ScotlandA710 7 miles south of Dumfries DG2 8BX T: 01387 850260 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesThis renovated c18th water-powered mill is in full working order. Demonstrations given in summer months. 65

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oooo Historic Attraction ß

Open: All year. 1 Apr-30 Sep: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm. 1 Oct-31 Mar: Mon-Wed, Sat-Sun, 9.30am-4.30pm.Admission: Adult £4.50, Child £2.70, Conc £3.60.

40 NEW ABBEY F4Sweetheart Abbey Historic ScotlandNew Abbey, 7 miles S of Dumfries DG2 8BU T: 01387 850397 [email protected] www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesSplendid remains of Cistercian abbey founded by Devorgilla, Lady of Galloway, in memory of her husband John Balliol. 65

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ooo Historic Attraction ß

Open: All year. 1 Apr-30 Sep, daily, 9.30am-5.30pm. 1 Oct-31 Mar, Mon-Wed, Sat-Sun, 9.30am-4.30pm.Admission: Adult £4.50, Conc £3.60, Child £2.70.

Looking for glorious gardens?

www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk/gardens

Glenwhan Gardens, Dunragit

41 NEW GALLOWAY D3Bruce’s Stone The National Trust for ScotlandA712, 6 miles west of New Galloway T: 0844 493 2244 (Ranger Service)[email protected] granite boulder on Moss Rapploch marks the spot where Bruce defeated the English in 1307. It is said that Bruce rested against this stone after the battle. Open all year.

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42 RUTHWELL F4The Ruthwell CrossRuthwell Church www.ruthwellkirk.org.ukMagnificent 18ft stone Anglo-Saxon preaching cross; a major monument of early medieval Europe, featuring detailed figurative carvings. Open: All year, daily. 23

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43 SANQUHAR E2Sanquhar Church T: 01659 50596Historic items in this c19th church include a medieval stone effigy of a monk, an early medieval cross slab and an effigy of St Nicholas, recovered from a site south of the town. Key available from session clerk. Admission free. 23

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44 SANQUHAR E2Sanquhar – The Historic Walk T: 01659 50596Meander through the town, following the historic plaques, taking in the c18th Tolbooth designed by William Adam, the world’s oldest working post office, Cameron Monument and Sanquhar Castle.

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45 By THORNHILL E2Durisdeer Church A702, 6 mls NE of Thornhill.1699. Houses the “Queensberry Marbles” which represents the recumbent figures of the second Duke and Duchess of Queensberry (1711).In the vault below lie 29 lead coffins containing ancient remains of the Clan Douglas. The Well Path was part of a medieval pilgrimage route to Whithorn.Open all year.Admission free.

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46 TORTHORWOLD, by DUMFRIES F3Cruck Cottage Shieldhill Road, Torthorwold DG1 3PS A709 from Dumfries, turn left just inside village T: 01387 247543Fascinating example of early c19th thatched “but and ben” cottage, lived in until the 1960s. Carefully restored in 1990 by Solway Heritage using traditional skills and local materials.Open all year – a list of local key holders is displayed in the window of the cottage. Admission free.

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47 WHITHORN C5Whithorn Priory & Museum, Historic Scotland At Whithorn on the A746. DG8 8PY. T: 01988 500508 [email protected] www.whithornpriorymuseum.gov.ukFounded by St Ninian in the 5th century, Whithorn is the site of Scotland’s first Christian church. A display of outstanding carved stones is housed in the refurbished museum.

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Open: Summer only, Apr-Oct, 10.30am-5pm.Admission: Adult £4.50, Child £2.25, Concs £3.

48 By WHITHORN C6St Ninian’s Cave Historic Scotland3 miles south of Whithorn T: 0131 668 8600 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/placesTraditionally associated with St Ninian. Early crosses found here are housed at Whithorn Museum, but weathered crosses carved on the walls of the cave are still visible. Open all year. Admission free.

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49 WIGTOWN C5Wigtown Martyrs’ MonumentHilltop monument to c17th Covenanters who died for their beliefs. Their gravestones are in the churchyard, and a stone shaft on the shore marks the spot where two women were drowned at the stake in 1685. Open all year.

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For more information onDumfries & Galloway


Indoor Play

50 DUMFRIES F4The Farmer’s Den33 Glasgow Street, Dumfries DG2 9AG also at Lady Street, Annan DG12 5DA T: 01387 249100 (Dumfries) 01461 206010 (Annan)The Farmer’s Den is an indoor soft play centre suitable for children up to the age of 10 years. Sit and relax in our café whilst the children play. Situated in both Dumfries and Annan open all year round.

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Open: All year. Mon-Sun, 9.30am-5pm (excl. Xmas/New Year).

Admission: Adult free, Child £3.50 (under 1s free).

Places to Visit


Museums

51 ANNAN G4

Annan MuseumBank Street, Annan DG12 6AA T: 01461 201384 [email protected] www.annan.org.ukFriendly local museum with a permanent exhibition on the history of Annan and a range of temporary exhibitions and special events.

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Open: Easter-31 Oct, Mon-Sat, 11am-4pm.Admission: Free.

52 ARBIGLAND, by KIRKBEAN F4

John Paul Jones MuseumArbigland, Kirkbean T: 01387 880613 F: 01387 265081 [email protected] www.jpj.demon.co.ukSignposted off A710, 13 miles south west of Dumfries. Cottage where John Paul Jones “The Father of the American Navy” was born in 1747. (See display advert on page 67).

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ooo Visitor Attraction &ƒ,

Open: 1 Apr-30 Sep: Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm.

Admission: Adult £3.50, Child free, Conc £3.



53 CARLISLE H5Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery Castle Street, Carlisle CA3 8TP T: 01228 618718 F: 01228 810249 [email protected] www.tulliehouse.co.ukFamily friendly museum. From fine art to interactive fun, there’s something for everyone.

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Open: All year except 25-26 Dec & 1 Jan. Apr-Oct: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, 11am-5pm. Nov-Mar: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, 12noon-5pm.

Admission: Charges apply, please visit website for details.

54 CREETOWN C4

Creetown Heritage Museum91 St John Street, Creetown, Newton Stewart DG8 7JE T: 01671 820471/820278 www.creetown-heritage-museum.com Well displayed local history of the village using photographs, artefacts, audio and video presentations together with activities for children. The museum is divided into several areas, each showing a part of Creetown’s history.

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ooo Visitor Attraction $

Fishing on the River Annan.



55 DUMFRIES F3

Dumfries & Galloway Aviation MuseumControl Tower, Heathhall, Dumfries DG1 3PH T: 01387 251623 [email protected] prime objective of the Museum is to preserve and maintain the aviation heritage of Dumfries & Galloway along with exhibits from all over the world. Visitors can have a hands on experience in various aircraft.

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ooo Visitor AttractionOpen: Easter-Oct: Sat, Sun, 10am-5pm, Wed, Thur/Fri

Jul-Aug 11am-4pm. Selected bank holidays and special appointments for coaches and school parties.

Admission: Adult £4, Child £3, Concs £3, Family £12.

56 DUMFRIES F4

Dumfries MuseumThe Observatory, Rotchell Road, Dumfries DG2 7SW T: 01387 253374 F: 01387 265081 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsA treasure house of history, telling the story of Dumfries & Galloway.

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oooo Museum ƒE$

Admission: Free.

56 DUMFRIES F4

Dumfries Museum Camera ObscuraThe Observatory, Rotchell Road, Dumfries DG2 7SW T: 01387 253374 F: 01387 265081 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsOriginally an astronomical instrument, the camera obscura provides a fascinating panoramic view of Dumfries.

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oooo Museum ƒE

Open: Easter-30 Sep. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 2-5pm. Weather permitting.

57 DUMFRIES F4

Old Bridge HouseMill Road, Dumfries DG2 7BE T: 01387 253374 F: 01387 265081 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsBuilt in 1660 into the sandstone of Devorgilla Bridge, Dumfries’ oldest house is now a museum of everyday life in the town.

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ooo Museum ƒE

Open: Easter-30 Sep: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun 2-5pm.

Admission: Free.

58 EASTRIGGS, by ANNAN G4Devil’s Porridge Exhibition Daleside, Butterdales Road, Eastriggs T: 01461 700021 [email protected] Tells the amazing story of the 30,000 WW1 munitions women and men from HM Factory Gretna.

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ooo MuseumOpen: From Easter onwards (full details on website).Admission: Adults £3.50, Concs £2.50, Family Ticket £8.

Connect with us...



59 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5

Stewartry MuseumSt Mary Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4AQ T/F: 01557 331643 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsOpened in 1892 the museum has a collection of remarkable range and quality, reflecting the human and natural history of the Stewartry. The social history collections of the c18th and c19th are particularly important.

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ooo Museum ƒE

Open:

.Admission: Free.

60 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5

Tolbooth Art CentreHigh Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4JL T: 01557 331556 F: 01557 331643 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsSet in one of Kirkcudbright’s historic buildings, the centre tells the story of the Kirkcudbright Artists Colony (1880-present) through an audio-visual show and permanent display of paintings. Also a programme of temporary art, craft & photographic exhibitions.

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Admission: Free.

61 By LANGHOLM H3Clan Armstrong Trust MuseumLodge Walk, Castleholm, Langholm DG13 0ND T: 01387 381610 [email protected] www.armstrongclan.org.ukThe World’s largest Armstrong museum. Discover your reiving past. See the Armstrongs of the future. Arms, armour, heraldry. Archives, Hall of Fame and library. Trace the history of this formidable Borders family.

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ooo Museum &

Open: Good Friday-Oct: Tues, Wed, Fri-Sun, 2-5pm.Admission: Free-donations welcome.

62 NEWTON STEWART C4Newton Stewart MuseumYork Road, Wigtownshire DG8 6HH T: 01671 402472 [email protected] museum has a considerable variety of fascinating items in its collections-nursery, tools, dairy, kitchen, smithy, textiles, local photographs, and other aspects of social history from the past 250 years in the Cree Valley.

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Open: Easter-early Oct: Mon-Sat, 2-5pm. Sun (Jul-Sep) 2-5pm. Mon-Fri (Jul-Aug), 10am-12.30pm.

Admission: Adult £2, Child 20p.

63 RUTHWELL F4

Savings Banks MuseumRuthwell, Dumfries DG1 4NN T: 01387 870640 [email protected] www.savingsbanksmuseum.co.ukThis 200-year old cottage is the birthplace of the world savings bank movement. Displays include original ledgers, a collection of money boxes and banking artefacts from around the world.

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oooo Museum

Opening hours may vary.

Places to Visit


64 SANQUHAR E2

Sanquhar Tolbooth MuseumHigh Street, Sanquhar DG4 6BN T: 01387 253374 F: 01387 265081 [email protected] ww.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsThe town’s fine c18th tolbooth with displays on Sanquhar knitting, mines, miners, local literature, Sanquhar jail, archaeology and community life.

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ooo Museum ƒE

Open: Easter-30 Sep: Tues-Sat, 10am-1pm, 2-5pm; Sun 2-5pm.

Admission: Free.

65 STRANRAER A4

Stranraer Museum55 George Street, Stranraer DG9 7JP T: 01776 705088 F: 01776 705835 [email protected] ww.dumgal.gov.uk/museumsThe story of Wigtownshire from earliest times with displays on archaeology, local history, costume and archives. Special events during school holidays. An exciting programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

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ooo Museum ƒE$

Open: All year. Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-1pm & 1.30-4pm.

Admission: Free.

Visitor Attractions

66 ANNAN G4Lonsdale CinemasMoat Road, Annan DG12 5DE T: 01461 206901 www.lonsdalecitycinemas.co.ukTwo screen reasonably-priced quality cinemas. Open seven days a week with luxury seating, Dolby Digital Projection and sound, MasterImage 3D system, air conditioning and free car parking. Shows nightly with afternoon matinees at weekends and school holidays.

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Open: All year. 7 days a week.Admission: Adult £5.50, Child/Concs £4.50.

(Supplement applies for 3D films.)

67 BALMACLELLAN, by NEW GALLOWAY D3The Clog and Shoe WorkshopOld School, Balmaclellan DG7 3QE T: 01644 420465 [email protected] www.clogandshoe.co.ukGalloway Footwear is the last company in Scotland to still create handmade clogs. 20

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ooo Visitor AttractionOpen: Easter Mon-31 Oct: Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm or by

appointment. Rest of the year – open most times but make an appointment before travelling any distance.

Admission: Free. Fee for guided tours.

68 BLADNOCH, by WIGTOWN C5

Bladnoch Distillery & Visitor CentreBladnoch, Wigtown DG8 9AB T: 01988 402605 F: 01988 402235 [email protected] www.bladnoch.co.ukScotland’s most southerly distillery nestles on the green banks of the River Bladnoch. The Distillery Shop offers a great selection of Bladnoch Whisky and a huge variety of Scottish gifts, glassware, jewellery and woollens.

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Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. During Jul-Aug & Bank Holiday weekends: Sat-Sun, 11am-5pm.

Admission: Adult £3.

69 CAERLAVEROCK, by DUMFRIES F4

WWT Caerlaverock Wetland CentreEastpark Farm, Caerlaverock DG1 4RS T: 01387 770200 F: 01387 770539 [email protected] www.wwt.org.ukA 1,400 acre wild reserve on the Solway coast-wintering birds include thousands of Svalbard barnacle geese and Whooper swans-with summer wildflower meadows and ospreys hunting over the Solway.

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10am-5pm.Admission: Adult £7.50, Child £3.70, Conc £5.70,

Family £20.20.

70 CARSLUITH C5Kirkdale Sawmill Kirkdale Estate, Carsluith, Wigtownshire DG8 7EA T/F: 01557 840273 [email protected] www.kirkdale-sawmill.org.ukAt Cairn Holy turnoff on A75. Only waterdriven sawmill in South Scotland. Nature trail to millpond. Seasoned local hardwoods for sale. 62

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Open: Apr-Sep, Mon 1-4pm. Groups welcome by appointment at other times. Schools free of charge.

Admission: Adult £2, Child 50p.

71 By CARSLUITH C5Marrbury Smokehouse at Carsluith CastleNear Gatehouse of Fleet, Wigtownshire DG8 6RW T/F: 01671 820476 [email protected] www.visitmarrbury.co.ukPeoples Awards Food Champions 2010. Haven for food lovers, Vincent and Ruby Marr personally welcome guests with tastings of traditionally smoked luxury Scottish foods. Historic Castle with free entry on site. Coming soon – fantastic bistro dining. 37

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oooo Visitor Attraction %

Open: Vary according to season. Please telephone first if travelling a long distance.

(Call for details of evening opening times for bistro.)Admission: Free.

72 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4

Sulwath BreweryThe Brewery, 209 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DT T/F: 01556 504525 [email protected] www.sulwathbrewers.co.ukWe are a small family firm where personal attention and service is assured. We take great pride in the production of our products which are brewed traditionally, with no concentrates, colourings or extract.

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14 CASTLE KENNEDY, STRANRAER A4Castle Kennedy & Gardens Stranraer DG9 8SJ T: 01581 400225 [email protected] castlekennedygardens.co.ukFun for all with events and activities in the beautiful gardens – bird hide, guided walks, open-air theatre, pond dipping and more. (See display advert on page 61). 18

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Open: Gardens and Tearoom: 1 Apr-31 Oct: daily, 10am-5pm. Feb-Mar: weekends only, 10am-5pm.Admission: Adult £5, Child £1.50, Concs £3.50, Family £11.

73 CREETOWN C4

Creetown Gem Rock MuseumChain Road, Creetown, Wigtownshire DG8 7HJ T: 01671 820357 F: 01671 820554 [email protected] www.gemrock.netThe Gem Rock Museum is a unique world-class, world-wide collection of gemstones, crystals, minerals and fossils. It has a quality gift shop, working silversmith/lapidary and a tea room serving home baking. (See display advert on page 64).

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74 DALTON F4

Dalton Pottery Art CaféMeikle Dyke, Dalton, Dumfriesshire DG11 1DU T: 01387 840236 [email protected] www.daltonpottery.comA family friendly attraction with bright spacious indoor and outdoor areas full of interesting art, where all ages can paint a pot or an artwork to take home while others enjoy the café and playpark. (See display advert on page 61).

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75 DUMFRIES F4Dumfries Ghost Walk Tickets from: Midsteeple Box Office, Midsteeple, High Street, Dumfries DG1 2BH M: 0779 104 7835/0791 214 5865 [email protected] www.mostlyghostly.orgGhosts, Ghouls, Murder & Witchcraft! Join Mostly Ghostly for a terrifying tour around darkest Dumfries. Dumfries & Galloway Life 2012 Tourism Champion. 90

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Open: Private bookings/scheduled walks all year (phone/email for info). Jul-Aug: Weekly, 9pm, from Midsteeple.

Admission: Adult £7, Child £5, Conc £5, Family £19. Private group bookings from £70.

76 DUMFRIES F4Dumfries VisitScotland Information Centre 64 Whitesands, Dumfries DG1 2RS T: 01387 253862 [email protected] www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.ukAn out of the ordinary Information Centre with a series of public artworks within the building and garden patio area. Range of local art and craftwork on display and available for sale. Agent for National Express, Citylink, Stena Line ferries to Ireland. Agent for local event tickets, fishing permits and Gateway to Golf Passes. Open all year. Admission free.

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77 DUMFRIES F4

Hetland Garden CentreCarrutherstown, Dumfries DG1 4JX T: 01387 840632 [email protected] www.hetlandgardencentre.co.ukFriendly and family-owned. A wide range of plants available, an undercover area and lovely walks through the Dinopark. Large tearoom – all food freshly prepared. Gift shop and home hardware department. Award-winning Christmas displays.

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Open: All year, 7 days a week. (Dinopark opening Spring 2013.) See our advert on page 59.

58 EASTRIGGS, by ANNAN G4

Devil’s Porridge ExhibitionDaleside, Butterdales Road, Eastriggs T: 01461 700021 [email protected] This amazing exhibition tells the story of 30,000 people who came to the Solway to make munitions in WW1 in HM Factory Gretna, “the greatest factory on Earth!”. As seen on BBC Coast.

ooo Museum



Galloway Kite Trail information boards.

Places to Visit


78 ESKDALEMUIR G2

Kagyu Samye Ling Tibetan Buddhist MonasteryEskdalemuir, Langholm, Dumfries & Galloway DG13 0QL T: 01387 373232 F: 01387 373223 [email protected] www.samyeling.orgA place beyond imagination, stunning Tibetan Buddhist Temple in traditional style. Also Victory Stupa, Prayer Wheel House, Butterlamp House, Liberation Gate, Peace Garden, Shop and Tibetan Tea Rooms.

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oo Visitor Attraction E

Open: All year. Apr-Sep: Mon-Sun, 9am-5pm. Oct-Mar: 9am-4pm.

Admission: Suggested donations: Adult £5, Child £3.

79 GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5

Cream o’ GallowayRainton, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2DR T: 01557 815222 F: 0808 280 2162 [email protected] www.creamogalloway.co.ukVisit the home of Cream o’ Galloway. Meet the dairy cows on our farm tour. Work up an appetite in our fabulous adventure playground – great for adults and children, and indulge in luxury ice cream. (See display advert on inside back cover).

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Open:

and rides.

80 GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5Mill on the Fleet Stranraer DG9 8SJ T/F: 01557 814099 [email protected] Centre in restored 18th century mill. Tourist Information Centre, Shop, Café, Riverside Terrace.

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Open: Apr-Oct: Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm.Admission: Free (donations welcome).

81 GRETNA GREEN G4Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths ShopGretna Green DG16 5EA T: 01461 338441 F: 01461 338442 [email protected] www.gretnagreen.comGretna Green Story Exhibition, quaint cottage-style buildings revealing an array of shopping experiences. Restaurant, Courtship Maze, play-park. 25

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oooo Visitor AttractionOpen: All year. Daily, all year round from 9am. Open until late in Summer (closed Christmas Day).Admission: (Exhibition): Adult £3.50, Child Free, Conc £2.75,

(Children under 12 free). (See display advert on page 64).

17 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Broughton House The National Trust for Scotland 12 High Street, Kirkcudbright T: 0844 493 2246 www.nts.org.ukHome and studio of artist EA Horne; features many renowned paintings and amazing Japanese-style garden. 63

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Open: House & Garden: 23 Mar-31 Oct: Mon-Sun, 12noon-5pm. Garden only: 1 Feb-22 Mar: Mon-Fri, 11am-4pm. Admission: Adult £6.50, Concs £5, Family £16.50.

82 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5The Cocoa Bean Company Ashland, Twynholm, Kirkcudbright DG6 4NP T: 01557 860608 [email protected] www.thecocoabeancompany.comChildren’s chocolate making workshops, indoor & outdoor play, café, chocolate factory & shop, online shop. 75

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Open: All year: Mon-Sun, 9am-5pm.Admission: Adult Free, Child £12, Play only £4.

83 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5

Galloway Wildlife Conservation ParkLochfergus Plantation, Kirkcudbright DG6 4XX T: 01557 331645 [email protected] www.gallowaywildlife.org.ukThe wild animal conservation centre of Southern Scotland. A varied collection of over 150 animals from all over the world can be seen within the peaceful and natural settings of the woodland. Close Animal Encounters.

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ooo Visitor Attraction

Senior Citizen £6.50,

(See display advert on page 60).

84 LEADHILLS E2The Leadhills & Wanlockhead Railway The Station, Station Road, Leadhills ML12 6XP T: 01555 662963 [email protected] www.leadhillsrailway.co.ukA touristic railway, Britain’s highest adhesion railway, passing through the industrial heritage of Leadhills. 35

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oo Visitor Attraction ,

Open: Easter-end Sep: Weekends and Bank Holidays. See website for details of monthly special events.

Admission: Adult £4, Concs £3, Child (3+) £2, Family £10.

85 LOCKERBIE F3

Dryfesdale Lodge Visitors’ CentreDryfesdale Cemetery Lodge, Dumfries Road, Lockerbie DG11 1HZ T: 01576 205962 [email protected] www.dryfesdalelodge.org.ukThere are two exhibition rooms and the Dryfesdale Room for visitors to reflect. A permanent exhibition room displays history panels depicting Lockerbie’s unique past from its pre-historic origins to 1988’s terrorist attack and beyond. Other varying exhibitions are of local arts and crafts.

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Open: End of March-30 Sep: daily, 10am-4pm. Oct: 11am-3pm (closed Wed). Week prior to 21 Dec.

86 MABIE, by DUMFRIES F4

Mabie Farm ParkBurnside Farm, Mabie, Dumfries DG2 8EZ T: 01387 259666 www.mabiefarmpark.co.ukFun for all the family with over 5000sq ft of indoor play area, plus dirt buggies, boats, astroslide grass sledging. Lots of animals, tearoom serving snacks and a large Toy Shop.

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Open: For opening times see website.

87 MULL OF GALLOWAY B6

Mull Of Galloway ExperienceDrummore, Stranraer DG9 9HP T: 01776 840554 [email protected] www.mull-of-galloway.co.ukClimb the 26m lighthouse tower or visit the exhibition. See the original foghorn engines. Watch the many DVDs to learn about the life of a lighthouse keeper. View the many artefacts on show.

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Open:



88 PORT LOGAN, by STRANRAER (14 miles) A5

Logan Botanic GardenPort Logan, Stranraer DG9 9ND T: 01776 860231 [email protected] www.rbge.org.uk/loganDiscover ‘Scotlands most exotic garden’ famed for its spectacular collection of southern hemisphere plants which flourish under the influence of the Gulf Stream – the atmosphere on a sunny day is truly tropical.

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89 RINGFORD D4

Barstobrick Visitors Centre and Farm ShopRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.uk1 mile off A75 at Ringford. 5 miles west of Castle Douglas. Neilson’s Coffee Shop. Farm Shop. Heritage. Wildlife walks. Red Kite trail. Farm tours. Fishing. Cycling. Horses. Family games and play area.

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ooo Visitor AttractionOpen: All year. Mar-Oct: daily, 10am-6pm. Nov-Feb: Fri, Sat, Sun, 10am-4pm.

90 By ST JOHNS TOWN OF DALRY (4 miles) D3Leeming and Paterson PhotographyGlenhoul Brae, Dalry, Castle Douglas DG7 3UB T: 01644 430004 M: 0791 710 2693 [email protected] www.leemingpaterson.comLandscape photography gallery run by Ted Leeming and Morag Paterson. Workshops and professional tuition offered. 91

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Open: All year. Times by appointment.

12 By THORNHILL E2Drumlanrig Castle & Country EstateThornhill DG3 4AQ T: 01848 331555 [email protected] www.drumlanrig.comOne of the most iconic attractions in Dumfries & Galloway. Tour the castle & explore the grounds. (See display advert on page 64). 23

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91 WANLOCKHEAD E2

Hidden Treasures Museum of Lead MiningWanlockhead, Lanarkshire ML12 6UT T: 01659 74387 F: 01659 74481 [email protected] leadminingmuseum.co.ukExperience the thrill of an underground tour of an historic lead mine, period cottages and miners’ library. Discover rocks, minerals and local artefacts in the museum. During July & August you can pan for REAL gold.

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oooo Visitor Attraction ß

Jul, Aug & all major bank holidays: 10am-5pm.

92 WHITHORN C5The Whithorn Story 45-47 George Street, Whithorn DG8 8NS T: 01988 500508 [email protected] www.whithorn.comThe museum tells the story of Whithorn, the ancient pilgrimage site associated with St Ninian. 43

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Open: Apr-Oct: Mon-Sun, 10.30am-5pm.Admission: Adult £4.50, Child £2.25, Concs £3, Family £12.


93 WIGTOWN C5Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve Visitor RoomCounty Buildings, Wigtown T: 01988 402673/01988 402401 www.dgcommunity.net/wblnrAmazing panoramic views over the Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve. Information about the LNR and the local environment combined with the “Ospreys are back in Galloway” project. A live CCTV link gives you a chance to see the Local Nature Reserve and Castle Field Wetland and some of its wildlife before going out to see it for real.

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Open: All year. Mon, Thurs, Sat: 10am-5pm. Tues, Wed, Fri: 10am-7.30pm. Sun 2-5pm.

Admission: Free, donations welcome.

94 WIGTOWN C5

Wigtown Book FestivalCounty Buildings, Wigtown DG8 9JH T: 01988 402036 M: 0783 469 3420 [email protected] www.wigtownbookfestival.comScotland’s National Book Town since 1997, Wigtown is home to more than 15 book shops and book-related businesses. (See display advert on page 67).

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Wildlife and Nature

95 CAERLAVEROCK, by DUMFRIES F4Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve Scottish Natural Heritage, 55/57 Moffat Road, Dumfries DG1 1NP [email protected] www.nnr-scotland.org.ukCaerlaverock NNR is a vast expanse of mudflats and saltmarsh that attracts thousands of wildfowl and waders and is home to the rare natterjack toad. Reserve facilities include wildlife watching hides, viewing platform and footpaths. Reserve open all year.

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WWT Caerlaverock Wetland CentreEastpark Farm, Caerlaverock DG1 4RS T: 01387 770200 F: 01387 770539 [email protected] www.wwt.org.ukA 1,400 acre wild reserve on the Solway coast-wintering birds include thousands of Svalbard barnacle geese and Whooper swans-with summer wildflower meadows and ospreys hunting over the Solway.

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10am-5pm.Admission: Adult £7.50, Child £3.70, Conc £5.70,

Family £20.20.

96 CAIRNSMORE OF FLEET, by NEWTON STEWART C4Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve Scottish Natural Heritage, Reserve Office, Dromore Farm, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2BP T: 01577 814435 [email protected] www.nnr-scotland.org.ukThis Reserve is a paradise for walkers. You’ll find peace and tranquillity here amongst heather moorland, peatlands and dramatic scenery. Facilities include a small information centre, farm walk, toilets, picnic area and parking. Reserve open all year.

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97 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Carlingwark Loch Castle Douglas T: 01556 505479 Freshwater loch is well known for its population of mute swans. Enjoy views and excellent wildlife watching from the 3.5 mile circular path around the loch through willow and alder carr. Guided walks by ranger service.Open all year.

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Places to Visit


98 By CASTLE DOUGLAS (4 miles) D4

Ken-Dee Marshes (RSPB Scotland)Castle Douglas DG7 2LY (NW of Castle Douglas – turn off B795 at Glenlochar). (Or contact Galloway Reserves Office, 26 South Main Street, Wigtown, DG8 9EH. T: 01988 402130.) www.rspb.org.uk/kendeemarshesWith stunning views across both the River Dee and Loch Ken, Ken-Dee Marshes is a nature reserve to enjoy all year round, whether you are looking for wildlife or just a quiet woodland walk.

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Open: All year. All day, every day.

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99 By CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Threave The National Trust for Scotland Off A75, 1 mile west of Castle Douglas T: 0844 493 2245 www.nts.org.ukThreave Estate is a renowned wildfowl sanctuary with walks, nature trails and a countryside centre.

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Open: Estate: All year. Mon-Sun.Admission: Free.

(See display advert on outside back cover).



14 CASTLE KENNEDY, STRANRAER A4Castle Kennedy & GardensCastle Kennedy, Stranraer DG9 8SJ T: 01581 400225 F: 01776 706248 [email protected] www.castlekennedygardens.co.ukHistoric and beautiful gardens bordering a wildfowl refuge on the White Loch. Visitors can view birds such as Greylag geese, great crested and little grebes and occasionally otters and other species from the Loch shores. (See display advert on page 61).

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Open: Gardens and Tearoom: 1 Apr-31 Oct: daily, 10am-5pm. Feb-Mar: weekends only, 10am-5pm.

Admission: Adult £5, Child £1.50, Concs £3.50, Family £11.

100 By DALBEATIE E5Rockcliffe The National Trust for ScotlandOff A710, 7 miles south of Dalbeattie. T: 0844 493 2244 (Ranger Service) [email protected] www.nts.org.ukPretty stretch of coastline with variety of birds, flowers and butterflies throughout the year. To avoid disturbance, please avoid the bird sanctuary, Rough Island, during May and June.Open all year. Admission free.

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Cream o’ GallowayRainton, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2DR T: 01557 815222 F: 0808 280 2162 [email protected] www.creamogalloway.co.ukDaily farm tours plus seasonal wildlife events (please book). Explore miles of nature trails encompassing organic farmland, woodland, wildlife ponds, cycle trails and dedicated dog walk. Indulge in our luxury ice cream in the tearoom. (See display advert on inside back cover).

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101 GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5Venniehill The National Trust for ScotlandGatehouse of Fleet T: 0844 493 2244 (Ranger Service) [email protected] www.nts.org.uk3.5 acre field, great for wildflowers and butterflies, with a hilltop viewpoint at the west end of the main street. Open all year.

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102 AROUND LOCH KEN (circular route) D4

Galloway Kite Trail (RSPB Scotland)Feeding Station: Bellymack Hill Farm, Laurieston, Castle Douglas DG7 2PJ T: 01556 670464 [email protected] views of red kites year round. Viewpoints and walks with idyllic scenery. See a close-up, feeding-frenzy of kites at the feeding station. Lots of places to enjoy local countryside, history and wildlife.

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Feeding station all year: 12 noon-4pm (kites fed at 2pm).

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103 LOCHMABEN F3Castle Loch Local Nature Reserve Lochmaben T: 01387 273986Large freshwater loch, winter home to roosting pink footed and greylag geese, many ducks and waders. Around Lochmaben Castle: footpaths, picnic tables and a bird watching hide. In summer, you might see kingfishers, willow tits, reed warblers, variable damselfly and other fascinating butterflies and moths. Information points. Guided walks by ranger service. Excellent views from the fishing piers for disabled visitors off A709 and B7020. Open all year. Admission free.

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104 By LOCKERBIE F3Applegarthtown Wildlife Sanctuary Applegarthtown Farm, Lockerbie DG11 1SX T: 01576 203153 M: 0771 985 7677 [email protected] www.thecrownestate.co.ukDiscreet wetland habitat, renowned for its sand martin artificial nesting banks. Viewing hide provided. 91

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Open: All year. Mon-Sun 24 hours.Admission: Free.

105 ANNAN F2Moffat & District Community Nature Reservec/o MDCI, 1 Ladyknowe, Moffat DG10 9DY T: 01683 220227 [email protected] www.visitmoffat.co.ukJust off the A701, the former quarry has been transformed into a nature reserve: including a small loch, seasonally flooded meadow, ‘bugs and beasties’ trail and all abilities bird watching hide. Ample parking.

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Open: All year. Mon-Sun.Admission: Free.

106 By MOFFAT G2Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve The National Trust for ScotlandOff A708 10 miles north east of Moffat DG10 9DP T: 0844 493 2244 (Ranger Service) [email protected] www.nts.org.ukSpectacular 200ft waterfall in dramatic moorland setting below White Coombe (2,696ft). Area rich in wild flowers, upland birds and geological interest; herd of feral goats. Please heed warning notices and wear appropriate footwear and clothing for mountainous terrain. Open all year. Admission free.

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107 MULL OF GALLOWAY B6

RSPB Scotland (Mull of Galloway Experience)5 miles (8km) south of Drummore (follow brown tourist signs from Drummore). T: 01776 840539 (Mull of Galloway VC), T: 01988 402130 (RSPB Wigtown) [email protected]/reserves/guide/m/mullofgalloway/index.aspxDiscover life on the edge at Scotland’s southernmost nature reserve. Watch the daily drama from thousands of nesting seabirds live on CCTV in our visitor centre, or take a walk amongst stunning cliff-top flowers.

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Open: Easter-31 Oct: Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm.Admission: Donations welcome.

108 By NEW ABBEY F4Kirkconnell Flow National Nature Reserve Scottish Natural Heritage, 55/57 Moffat Road, Dumfries DG1 1NP [email protected] www.nnr-scotland.org.uk

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3Kirkconnell Flow NNR gives a sense of remote wilderness among the surrounding fields. The sodden surface of the peat bog is a palette of green, purple and red shades of sphagnum mosses and wet-loving plants. Reserve facilities include a network of marked trails, a car park and picnic benches. Reserve open all year.



109 By NEW GALLOWAY D4Loch Ken9 mile long loch, created through the Galloway Hydro Electric Scheme, now an important scenic and recreational resource, with watersports, coarse fishing and birdwatching including The Galloway Kite Trail. Open all year.

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110 By NEW GALLOWAY C3Silver Flowe National Nature Reserve Scottish Natural Heritage, 55/57 Moffat Road, Dumfries DG1 1NP [email protected] www.nnr-scotland.org.ukForestry Commission Scotland, Galloway Forest District, Creebridge, Newton Stewart DG6 6AJ T: 01671 402420 www.forestry.gov.uk/scotlandSilver Flowe NNR is a complex of seven peat bogs crammed into the floor of the glen. In just one site, you can explore bogs with features that are normally separated by hundreds of miles.Reserve open all year.

Connect with us...



111 By NEWTON STEWART C4

Galloway Red Deer Range & Wild Goat ParkForestry Commission Scotland, Galloway Forest Park, near Newton Stewart T: 01671 402420 [email protected]/wildlifescotlandRed deer are the largest land mammal in Scotland. Visit all year round; however, from mid-September to the end of October, when the annual stag rut gets underway, you can experience this animal’s full glory.

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112 By NEWTON STEWART (4 miles) C4

Wood of Cree (RSPB Scotland)Newton Stewart DG8 6SN (Or contact Galloway Reserves Office, 26 South Main Street, Wigtown DG8 9EH, T: 01988 402130)www.rspb.org.uk/woodofcreeA wooded wonderland. This is the largest ancient oak woodland in southern Scotland. It is home to a wealth of special wildlife and beautiful scenery.

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Open: All year, all day, everyday.

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89 RINGFORD D4

Countryside and Wildlife @ BarstobrickRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukWalk to Neilson’s monument and viewpoint. Abundant wildlife. Ponds, Red Kites, ducks, butterflies, dragonflies, horses. Farm tours. Fishing. Our own beef and lamb used in Neilson’s Coffee Shop and sold in the farm shop.

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113 SOUTHWICK, by DUMFRIES (15 miles) E5

Mersehead (RSPB Scotland)RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries DA2 8AH (off A710 near Southwick). T: 01387 780579 [email protected] www.rspb.org.uk/merseheadMersehead offers something different to see every season. Enjoy peaceful walks, family events, playing on the beach. Visitor Centre with toilets and baby changing facilities and refreshments available. Accessible trails.

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114 By STRANRAER A4Loch Ryan Stranraer/Wig BaySuperb enclosed sea loch with mudflats and a shingle spit at Wig Bay. Plenty to see all year and especially in winter with wintering divers, grebes, waders and wildfowl including Scaup and Brent geese. WWII flying boats were based at Wig Bay and there are still signs to see both here and in other places around the Loch.Open all year.

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12 By THORNHILL E2Drumlanrig Castle & Country EstateThornhill DG3 4AQ T: 01848 331555 [email protected] www.drumlanrig.comUncover the wealth of wildlife on a Ranger led walk, Landrover tour or way marked trail. (See display advert on page 64). 23

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115 WIGTOWN C5Wigtown Bay Local Nature ReserveCounty Buildings, Wigtown T: 01988 402673/01988 402401 www.dgcommunity.net/wblnrThis facility has an amazing panoramic view over the Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve. There is information about the LNR and the rest of the local environment so well worth a visit especially as it s combined with the “Ospreys are back in Galloway” project. A live CCTV link gives you a chance to see the Local Nature Reserve and Castle Field Wetland and some of its wildlife before going out to see it for real.

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Open: All year. All year. Mon, Thurs, Sat: 10am-5pm. Tues, Wed, Fri: 10am-7.30pm. Sun: 2-5pm.

Admission: Free, donations welcome.

116 WIGTOWN C5

Wigtown Osprey Project (RSPB Scotland)County Buildings, Wigtown DG8 9JH (or contact Galloway Reserves Office, T: 01988 402673/402130) www.wigtownbayospreys.co.ukThe best place in Dumfries & Galloway for close-up views of ospreys. Head to the Wigtown Bay Visitor Centre in the County Building for dramatic CCTV footage of these spectacular birds.

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Open: Mar-Oct. Variable on 6 days per week (closed on Sundays).

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117 By WIGTOWN (4 miles) C5

Crook of Baldoon Nature Reserve (RSPB Scotland)Off the A714 south of Wigtown. (Or contact RSPB, 26 South Main Street, Wigtown DG8 9EH, T: 01988 402130) [email protected] www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/c/crookofbaldoon/index.aspxThe view is breathtaking. The Galloway Hills form a backdrop to wild saltmarsh and mudflats. In winter, waders wheel in the sky creating a mesmerizing display. In summer, breeding skylark and linnet can be seen.

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Places to Visit


Beaches

Coastal funWith 200 miles of coastline, Dumfries & Galloway has a great mix of beaches to choose from. On sunny days the sparkling stretches of golden sand become popular with people enjoying the fresh sea breezes, and many have good facilities to help you spend a full day at the shore. Craggy beaches are fun to explore with children, clamouring over rocks hunting sea life in rock pools and inlets. While pebble beaches and small hidden coves are perfect for those seeking solitude along the coastline.

Map Ref:BRIGHOUSE BAY BEACH D5By KIRKCUDBRIGHT. B727Safe, long fl at sandy beach with rock pools.

CARDONESS BEACH D5By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET. A75A series of small sandy beaches.

CARRICK SHORE BEACH D5By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET. B727Sandy beach with surrounding rocks.

CASTLE POINT BEACH E5Rockcliffe, by DALBEATTIE. A710Sand and rocks. 1 mile footpath to beach.

THE DHOON BEACH D5By KIRKCUDBRIGHT. B727Very safe, fl at and sandy.

KIPPFORD BEACH E5By DALBEATTIE. A710Sand, shingle and rocks with a 1/2 milewalk to the beach.

MONREITH BEACH C5By WHITHORN. A747Long sandy beach backed by pebbles.

MOSSYARD BEACH D5By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET. A75 Sandy beach with rocky surroundings.

PORT LOGAN BEACH A5By STRANRAER. B7065Long sandy bay.

Map Ref:POWFOOT BEACH G4By ANNAN. B724Small area of sand and shingle, suitable for paddling.

POWILLIMOUNT BEACH F5Arbigland, By DUMFRIES. A710Sandy beach with rocks and shingle.

ROCKCLIFFE BEACH E5By DALBEATTIE. A710Small sandy beach with rocks.

SANDGREEN BEACH D5By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET. A75Sandy beach with rocks.

SANDHEAD BEACH A5By STRANRAER. A715Sandy beach, stretching for more than a mile.

SANDYHILLS BEACH E5By DALBEATTIE. A710Large sandy beach.

SOUTHERNESS BEACH F5By DUMFRIES. A710Large sandy beach.

STAIRHAVEN BEACH B5By GLENLUCE. A75/A747Small beach.

The Dhoon Beach by Kirkcudbright.

Important Safety Notice

The shores of the Solway Firth are swept by very fast incoming tides. Every summer coastguards are kept busy when people fi nd themselves in diffi culties on the coast. Please take care. It is dangerous to walk over stretches of sand to meet incoming tides as you can easily be cut off. Instead be prepared and fi nd out local tide times from any VisitScotland Information Centre.



Scotland’s spectacular landscapes have been shaped by history and the elements throughout the centuries. Join us in the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 as we celebrate Dumfries & Galloway’s natural heritage; take part in exciting outdoor activities whether on land, sea or in the air, savour our delicious local produce and encounter rare and beautiful wildlife. The journey doesn’t stop there, plan your trip and experience it for yourself! www.visitscotland.com/natural

Main image: Walker on the Southern Upland Way by Loch Trool, Galloway Forest Park.

Cyclist at the Heart Stane, Dalbeattie 7stanes.

Dumfries & Galloway is home to around 20% of Scottish red squirrels.

Historic Caerlaverock Castle, the only triangular castle in Britain.

Events & Festivals

118 DUMFRIES F4

DG OneHoods Loaning, Dumfries DG1 2HT T: 01387 243550 F: 01387 263809 [email protected] Scotland’s premier leisure & entertainment venue. Excellent line-up of comedy, cultural events, theatre, top music, ballet, children’s shows, family entertainment and, of course, the BIGGEST pantomime in south-west Scotland.

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Venues

119 DUMFRIES F4

Park House Venue, Cairndale Hotel & Leisure ClubEnglish Street, Dumfries DG1 2DF T: 01387 254111 F:01387 240288 [email protected] www.cairndalehotel.co.uk/entertainmentRegular weekend entertainment at the Cairndale Hotel and Park House Venue in Dumfries, including tribute nights, The Comedy Club, Dumfries Soul Club and popular free ceilidh for holiday visitors every Sunday night in July and August.

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Open: All year.Admission: Please see www.cairndalehotel.co.uk/

entertainment for details.

120 LANGHOLM H3The Buccleuch CentreBuccleuch Square, Langholm, Dumfriesshire DG13 OAW T: 01387 381196 [email protected] www.buccleuchcentre.comA vibrant arts and community centre offering a wide ranging programme of performances and activities throughout the year. Coffee shop and bar.

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Open: All Year. Mon-Fri, 10am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-12 noon, plus during events.

Admission: Tickets for events.

121 NEW GALLOWAY D3The CatstrandHigh Street, New Galloway Castle Douglas DG7 3RN T: 01644 [email protected] www.catstrand.comArts & Visitor Centre with year round live events programme. Arts, crafts, café, exhibition and free internet.

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Open: All year. Apr-Sep: Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm. Oct-Mar: Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm. Sat: 10am-4pm. Sun: 12noon-4pm.

Admission: Free entry-event prices vary.

123 STRANRAER A4Ryan Centre TheatreFairhurst Road, Stranraer DG9 7AP T: 01776 703535 www.dumgal.gov.uk/ryancentretheatreThe theatre offers a year round eclectic programme of quality Arts and entertainment events including drama, dance and music. The theatre shows are complemented by a fortnightly cinema programme of current mainstream films. Find us on facebook.

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Open: All Year. Dependant on activity, please call for information.

Admission: Varies depending on activity.

Spring Fling – Andy Priestman’s Studio, near Newton Stewart.

Great days out – Events & Festivals


The region boasts five of the 7stanes centres where you can race through scenic landscapes and challenge yourself with technical mountain bike features. Whatever your skill level, whether you want exciting tricks or gentle rides, you’ll find a waymarked trail at one of the centres.

A coastal setting awaits at Dalbeattie, where you can test your abilities on some of the red and black graded trails.

North of Dumfries, Ae is set within beautiful forestry and you will find a great selection of routes.

To the south, Mabie has wonderful views across the Solway Firth and the Nith Estuary and you can practice in the dedicated skills area.

Capture your desire for exciting adventure and take advantage of the two 7stanes mountain biking centres based within the Galloway Forest Park.

Glentrool and Kirroughtree are both fantastic areas with different graded trails and tracks suitable for both seasoned cyclists and beginners.

You don’t need to bring your bike – you can hire one to head out onto the trails at Mabie Bike and at Kirroughtree.

If you want to spend another day in the wild beauty of Galloway Forest Park, you can simply follow one of the waymarked routes through Britain’s largest park to see the wildlife.

Great outdoor adventures

Dumfries & Galloway is the perfect region for adventure in the countryside, with a variety of activities to suit all abilities. Discover walks along the Solway Coast or make the most of the area’s mountain biking centres.

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7stanes centres – great for family cycling too

Did youknow?

The Galloway Forest Park is around 300 square miles

of lush green forest, heather-clad hills and

tranquil valleys.

Dumfries & Galloway


• Enjoy horse riding at Lochhill Equestrian Farm and Trekking Centre near Castle Douglas or at Brighouse Bay Trekking Centre. Keen riders can try endurance riding and beautiful scenic hacks while beginners can enjoy a leisurely ride.

• Spend a day fishing on the River Nith, one of Scotland’s most productive rivers for both salmon and sea trout.

• Loch Ken is a beautiful spot of still water which offers quality coarse fishing with pike, perch, roach, rudd, bream, carp and ruffe.

• The 55-mile Annandale Way is popular with walkers keen to enjoy the views across the wide River Annan, over a ruined castle on a loch and out onto the heather-clad hills.

Soak up the fresh countryside air and enjoy outdoor activities at Drumlanrig Castle and estate, by Thornhill. Follow two Victorian pathways, the original 19th century tracks around the estate or tackle the mountain bike trails.

For adventure on the water, learn to sail at Galloway Activity Centre, Loch Ken, or try out their outdoor laser quest which offers all the fun without any pain. Continue the thrills on the Leap of Faith, when you climb a high tower and jump off while attached to a safety wire.

Visit Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre, Gatehouse of Fleet, for a day of exciting fun from clay pigeon shooting to grass sledging. Roll down the hill in an inflatable ball and bring a towel if you fancy water-balling – not only do you head down the slope in a 12 ft ball, but there’s water in there with you. Once you’ve got your balance back, try out the UK’s longest zip wire, which spans 820 m. You can even take part with a friend and race each other down two parallel lines as you gaze out over the whole centre.

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Don’t miss... The Southern Upland Way, Scotland’s

longest coast to coast walking route.

The Merrick, southern Scotland’s highest hill at 2,765 ft.

The RSAC Scottish Rally in June.

Dalbeattie Walking Festival in August.

Loch Ken Water Ski and Wakeboard School.

Barstobrick Visitor Centre, which offers cycling, walking, fishing and pony trekking.

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01 Enjoy a hack at Brighouse Bay, by Kirkcudbright.02 Southern Upland Way sign near St John’s Town of Dalry.03 Red Deer Range, Galloway Forest Park.04 Galloway Activity Centre iceberg – new for 2013.05 Salmon fishing on the River Nith.06 Dalbeattie 7stanes Red Trail.

For more information on locations check out the map on page 70.


Great outdoor adventures

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With two passes and three trails, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to golf in Dumfries & Galloway. Expect stunning views, well-kept greens and a warm welcome at the clubhouse at every course.

Your Gateway to Golf

Did youknow?

Southerness Golf Course was designed by Mackenzie Ross,

the same architect who restored the famous Ailsa

course at Turnberry.

Dumfries & Galloway


Experience as many of the exciting courses in the region as possible with a Gateway to Golf Pass. Choose between the 6-round and 3-round passes, both valid for 5 consecutive days on 26 courses. These great value passes start at £80 for 3 rounds, and from £120 for a 6 round pass.

If you’re after a true test of your golfing skills, take on the mighty Tiger Tail, made up of the region’s six most demanding courses.

Portpatrick offers two courses – the 18-hole Dunskey Course, described by Golf World as ‘the best holiday course in the south of Scotland’ and the 9-hole, par 3 Dinvin Course, ideal for beginners.

Play a round on the Stranraer course and take in the stunning landscapes as you enjoy the tests of the last course created by designer James Braid. This gem is set on the North Rhinns peninsula with views out across the Isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig.

Beginners, or those simply looking for a leisurely game with time to enjoy the views, should take on the Little Gems Trail.

The nine holes of the Gatehouse of Fleet course present a good test of golfing skill, while in the far east of the region you can play nine holes at Langholm, where the course is laid out on the lower slopes of Whita Hill.

• New Galloway Golf Course is great fun and will also keep you on your toes.

• The special feature of the Newton Stewart Golf Course is the 5 par 3s from holes 3 to 8 – Houlit’s Nest, Doocot, Gushet, Soup Plate and Punchbowl – which all provide their own particular demands.

• Try out the Dumfries & Galloway Golf Course and experience a fine parkland course with short tree-lined avenues. Enjoy the variety of this fine course which challenges you at all 18 holes.

• The Powfoot Golf Course offers a winning mix of links and parkland and was designed by James Braid.

• Solway Links Golf Course near Dalbeattie prides itself on being a family-friendly venue.

The Challenge Trail is perfect for those looking to improve their skills and experience a memorable game of golf.

Brighouse Bay is another regional highlight with a remarkable clifftop setting, while the Lochmaben course occupies a historic area around the attractive Kirk Loch. The tee shot of the 2nd hole takes you on to the site of Bruce Castle, while at the 3rd hole you’ll notice the huge defensive ditch which helped to protect the site around the castle. The signature hole of the par 70 course is the 8th, which requires a tee shot across the corner of the loch itself.

Golf

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01 13th Hole, Portpatrick Dunskey Golf Club.02 Wigtownshire County Golf Club.03 Thornhill Golf Club.04 Newton Stewart Golf Club.

Try it now Wigtownshire County, a classic

links course.

Thornhill, a mixture of parkland and heathland.

Colvend bills itself as ‘Scotland’s friendliest club’.

GolfCross, with an oval ball and a goal, at Solway Links.

Dumfries and County, a parkland course in Dumfries.

Visiting Golfers’ Welcome courses offer additional facilities.

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Don’t missTo find out more about Dumfries & Galloway’s 32 courses, pick up a

Dumfries & Galloway golf brochure at a nearby VisitScotland

Information Centre.

Your Gateway to Golf


Activities

124 AE F3Forest of AeForestry Commission Scotland T: (Recreation Ranger) 01387 860247 www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland www.7stanesmountainbiking.comThe shortest place name in the UK, but Ae offers a wide variety of walks, 7stanes mountain biking trails, a café and bike shop. There’s also a collection of old farm machinery! The forest is also one of the largest in Britain, at over 10,000 hectares.

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125 By ANNAN (GRETNA GREEN 4 miles) G4Westlands Activity CentreThe Broats Moss, Annan DG12 6RS T: 01461 800274 [email protected] www.westlands-activities.co.ukQuad safari, go-karting, paintballing, assault course and clay pigeon shooting on a 70-acre site.

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ooo Activity ProviderOpen: All year. Thurs-Mon: 9am-5pm (closed Tues & Wed,

except for corporate bookings).Admission: Please call for prices or check website.

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Brighouse Bay Trekking CentreBrighouse Bay Holiday Park, Borgue DG6 4TS T: 01557 870267 [email protected] www.gillespie-leisure.co.ukNext to Family Holiday Park with bar and bistro, 18 & 9 hole golf courses, indoor pool with Jacuzzi and toddlers pool, quad bikes, bowling green, boating pond and nature trails.

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Please contact trekking centre for details.

127 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Castle Douglas Cycle Centre11 Church Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1EA T/F: 01556 504542 [email protected] www.cdbikes.co.ukFriendly service for any type of cycle enquiry. New bikes, repairs, servicing, spare parts & accessories.

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Open: All Year. Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm. Bank Holidays: 10am-5pm.

128 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Galloway HolidaysSummerhill, Abercromby Place, Castle Douglas DG7 1GA T/F: 01556 502979 M: 0797 481 4172 [email protected] www.gallowayholidays.co.ukCycling, walking and other tailor made holidays arranged with accommodation, bag transfers and pickups. 27

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Open: All year. Contact at any time – see details.Admission: See website.

129 DALBEATTIE E4Dalbeattie Forest Forestry Commission ScotlandOff the A710, just south of Dalbeattie T: (Recreation Ranger) 01387 860247 www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland www.7stanesmountainbiking.comWalking trails from the Town Wood end of the forest, 7stanes mountain biking from the Richorn car park; a great wee forest to explore. Why not come along to one of our events to find out more about the forest? From wildlife walks to den building, there’s something for everyone!

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130 DUMFRIES F3

Dalscone Farm FunEdinburgh Road, Dumfries DG1 1SE T: 01387 254445 (shop) F: 01387 254949 [email protected] is a family adventure farm and toy shop located in Dumfries, Scotland. Attractions include a soft play area, a coffee shop and a farm park including trampolines, pedal karts, lots of animals and much more! (See display advert on page 62).

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Outdoor Farm Park open Easter-end Oct. Soft play area, coffee shop and toy shop open all year.

Admission: Admission charges apply.

Connect with us...



131 By DUMFRIES (4 miles) F4Mabie Forest Forestry Commission ScotlandOff the A710, 4 miles south of Dumfries T: 01387 860247 www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland www.7stanesmountainbiking.comLots of walking trails, excellent 7stanes mountain biking trails, café, bike shop and butterfly reserve. One of the most popular destinations in the area for outdoor recreation, offering something for everyone, from world-class mountain bike trails to quiet picnic areas and stunning viewpoints. Walks for all abilities. All routes start from the main car park and cross the Mabie Burn towards the Old Sawmill where picnic areas, barbecues and toilets can be found.

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THROUGHOUT DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

7stanes – MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS7stanes Community Interest Company T: 01387 702228 [email protected] www.7stanesmountainbiking.comExperience some of the most scenic landscape Scotland has to offer whilst riding the 7stanes. Trails for beginners to expert mountain bikers, for all ages and abilities. Enjoy gentle off-road cycling, flowing single track or challenging climbs and drop-offs with technical jumps.

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Open: All year.Admission: Free, but modest car parking charge applies.


Cream o’ GallowayRainton, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2DR T: 01557 815222 F: 0808 280 2162 [email protected] www.creamogalloway.co.ukHire bikes or bring your own and enjoy free access to our cycle trails. Ideal for families, choose the gentle or challenging route. Burn off steam on the multi storey pedal kart tracks. Ice cream to finish! (See display advert on inside back cover).

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oooo Visitor Attaction ©ƒ

132 By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5

Laggan Outdoor Activity CentreLaggan, Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2ES T: 01557 840217 [email protected] www.lagganoutdoor.co.ukLaggan Outdoor Activity centre offer first class activities for all the family. Choose from Archery, The UK’s longest Zip wire, Segway Adventures & Clay Shooting or Grass Sledging, Zorbing, Mountain Boarding and Reverse Steer Jeep driving. (See display advert on page 68).

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ooo Activity ProviderOpen: All year. 10am-5pm.

Booking is essential.Admission: Charges per activity.

Leisure Activities


133 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Kirkcudbright MarinaCastledykes Road, Kirkcudbright T: 01557 331135 (Harbourmaster’s Office for bookings) [email protected] pontoon providing shore access for both visiting yachts and permanent moorings. CCTV, power water and shower facilities available. Open all year. 29

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Join us in the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 as we celebrate Scotland’s natural heritage. Plan your trip and experience it for yourself! www.visitscotland.com/natural

134 LOCH KEN, CASTLE DOUGLAS D4

Galloway Activity CentreParton, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas DG7 3NQ T/F: 01644 420626 [email protected] www.lochken.co.ukWe offer a range of instructor led activities, run in a fun and safe environment. Choose from sailing/kayaking/windsurfing/archery/mountain biking/climbing tower/zip wire/leap of faith/fishing and outdoor laser quest. NEW FOR 2013: Iceberg/inflatable water park

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oooo Activity Centre &

For a list of exciting events taking place throughout Dumfries & Galloway

see pages 54-55

Cycling event through Dumfries

135 MOFFAT F2The Green FrogThe Green Frog, Hammerlands, Moffat DG10 9QL T: 01683 221220 M: 0777 973 4448 www.thegreenfrogmoffat.co.ukFamily friendly, café, fishery, children’s play activities, small animals to visit and small garden centre. Low cost family day out.

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ƒ,

Open: All year. Apr-Oct: Mon-Sun, 8am-5pm. Nov-Mar: Mon-Sun, 9am-4pm.

136 MOFFAT F2Moffat and District Community Initiative1 Ladyknowe, Moffat DG10 9DY T: 01683 220 227 [email protected] www.visitmoffat.co.ukScotland’s 1st ‘Walkers are Welcome’ Town, a haven for walkers, mid-point on the Southern Upland Way and start point for Annandale Way. Outstanding conservation town with excellent accommodation, cafés, restaurants and shops. Free parking in town centre.

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Open: All year.Admission: Free.

137 By NEWTON STEWART B4

3 Lochs Holiday Park & EstateBalminnoch, Kirkcowan, Newton Stewart DG8 0EP T: 01671 830304 [email protected] www.3lochs.co.ukOur holiday park and estate offers beautiful scenery and the chance to relax in our self-catering accommodation, as well as camping and touring facilities. Everyone welcome to come and enjoy all our activities.

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138 PARTON D4

Loch Ken Water Ski and Wakeboard SchoolLoch Ken Marina, Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NF T: 01644 470333 [email protected] www.skilochken.co.ukScotland’s ultimate water-ski and wakeboard site! Set in the beautiful Galloway hills offering a huge selection of water sports and fun activities to choose from including water-skiing, wakeboarding, Banana Boat and boat rides.

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89 RINGFORD D4

Fishing @ Barstobrick Visitor CentreRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukOn site coarse fishing in still water ponds (Carp, Tench, Roach, Bream, Chub). Permits available at Visitor Centre. Coaching available by arrangement. Meals or picnics available from Neilson’s Coffee Shop.

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ooo Visitor AttactionOpen: All year. Mar-Oct: daily, 10am-6pm.

Nov-Feb: Fri, Sat, Sun, 10am-4pm.Admission: Permits available at Visitor Centre £5 per day.

89 RINGFORD D4

Horse Riding @ Barstobrick Visitor CentreRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukTrekking for all abilities daily. Miles of tracks. Indoor arena. Tuition available. Bring your horse on holiday. Stabling with individual tack rooms. Livery available.

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ooo Visitor AttactionOpen: All year. Mar-Oct: daily, 10am-6pm.

Admission: Contact Visitor Centre for prices.

139 RINGFORD D4

Lochill Equestrian and Trekking CentreLochhill Farm, Ringford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AR T: 01557 820225 M: 0788 516 8093 [email protected] www.lochhill.netRegistered BHS trekking and riding school in the heart of Galloway countryside. Enjoy hacks for the experienced or enjoyable treks for the beginner in fabulous scenery. Private and group lessons, Loan a Pony. Liveries also available.

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oooo Activity Centre

7 days a week – please phone for availability.Admission: Adult £25, Child £25.

£40 Loan a Pony for half day.

89 RINGFORD D4

Walking @ Barstobrick Visitor CentreRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukWalks to Neilson’s Monument. Miles of tracks and paths. All ability walks around a network of ponds. Free walking map. Red kites, ducks, butterflies, dragonflies. Ample parking. Meals available at Neilson’s Coffee Shop.

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ooo Visitor AttactionOpen: All year.

Mar-Oct: daily, 10am-6pm. Nov-Feb: Fri, Sat, Sun, 10am-4pm.

Great days out – Leisure Activities


140 By ST JOHN’S TOWN OF DALRY D3

Forrest Estate ExperiencesSt John’s Town of Dalry, nr Castle Douglas DG7 3XS T: 01644 430015 M: 0774 769 1447 [email protected] www.forrestestateexperiences.comForrest Estate specialises in providing access and education for a range of country sports including clay pigeon shooting, deer stalking, fly fishing and game shooting on a breathtaking estate in the heart of Galloway.

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By appointment.



141 SANDYHILLS E5

Barend Riding CentreSandyhills, Dalbeattie DG5 4NU T: 01387 780533 M: 0774 609 5248Sandyhills just off A710. Treks and lessons for all abilities, starting with weenie rides (free rosette) for 4 years and over. Family run with exceptional routes through Dalbeattie Forest and surrounding countryside.

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Open: All year. Mon-Sun, 9am-5pm.

12 By THORNHILL E2Drumlanrig Castle & Country EstateThornhill DG3 4AQ T: 01848 331555 [email protected] www.drumlanrig.comMany kilometres of cycle tracks and off road mountain bike trails to suit all abilities. (See display advert on page 64).

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ooooo Castle &ß

Open: Castle: 23 Mar-31 Aug, Mon-Sun, 11am-4pm (last entry). Gardens & Country Estate: 23 Mar-30 Sep: daily, 10am-5pm.


Galloway Forest Park

142 CLATTERINGSHAWS, by NEW GALLOWAY D3Clatteringshaws Visitor CentreForestry Commission Scotland Clatteringshaws, 6 miles west of New Galloway T: 01644 420285 www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestparkIn the heart of Galloway Forest Park and on the Queen’s Way. Walks, fishing sites, café, small shop, wildlife room. Near the start of the Raiders’ Road forest drive. 69

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ooo Visitor Attraction &

Open: 1 Apr-3 Jul: 10.30am-4.30pm. 4 Jul-4 Sep: 10.30am-5.30pm. 5 Sep-30 Oct: 10.30am-4.30pm.

Admission: Free. Parking £3 per car, per day.

143 GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5Cally Woods Forestry Commission ScotlandGatehouse of Fleet T: 01671 402420 www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestparkIn this tranquil woodland, the cares of the world seem to drop away as you become immersed in its peaceful beauty. The bluebells are wonderful in the spring! There are three superb waymarked trails to follow of varying lengths from one to three miles.

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144 GLENTROOL C3Glentrool Visitor CentreForestry Commission Scotland Off A714 at Bargrennan, 12 miles north of Newton Stewart. T: 01671 840302 www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark www.7stanesmountainbiking.comGateway to the Galloway Hills. Waymarked trails, cycle routes, picnic areas, small shop and café, amidst the highest hills of south Scotland. Maps and information on hill ranges available. 69

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ooo Visitor Attraction %

Open: 21 Mar-3 Jul: 10.30am-4.30pm. 4 Jul-4 Sep: 10.30am-5.30pm. 5 Sep-30 Oct: 10.30am-4.30pm.


145 By NEW GALLOWAY (8 miles) C4Wild Goat ParkForestry Commission Scotland On A712, approximately half way between New Galloway and Newton Stewart. T: 01671 402420 www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestparkOur wild goats are great to watch, as they wander the hillside of the forest park. The goats do come up to the fence and they are partial to a sandwich or two, so watch out!

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147 By NEWTON STEWART C4Kirroughtree Visitor CentreForestry Commission Scotland Off A75 at Palnure, 3 miles east of Newton Stewart. T: 01671 402420 www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestpark www.7stanesmountainbiking.comSouthern gateway to Galloway Forest Park, home to great walks, 7stanes mountain biking trails, café and bike shop. Gift shop, adventure play area, picnic areas. 69

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ooo Visitor Attraction &ƒ

Open: 21 Mar-3 Jul: 10.30am-4.30pm. 4 Jul-4 Sep: 10.30am-5.30pm. 5 Sep-30 Oct: 10.30am-4.30pm.


111 By NEWTON STEWART C4Red Deer RangeForestry Commission Scotland On A712 between New Galloway and Newton Stewart. T: 01671 402420 www.forestry.gov.uk/gallowayforestparkThe ideal place to look for Scotland’s largest land mammal. Good all year round, magnificent during October rutting!

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Open: Jun-Sep: 10am-12 noon.Admission: Adult £3.50, Child £2.50, Conc £2.50, Family £10.

146 NEWTON STEWART TO NEW GALLOWAY C4-D3Queen’s Way Tourist RouteA712 Newton Stewart to New Galloway Road T: 01671 402420 Get the Galloway Forest Park experience and see the Wild Goat Park, the Red Deer Range and Murray’s Monument. Access to artworks and Glen O’ the Bar viewpoint.

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Looking forglorious gardens?www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk/gardens

Golf

By BORGUE, KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Brighouse Bay Golf & Leisure ClubBrighouse Bay DG6 4TS T: 01557 870409 (club) 01557 870509 (Golf office) [email protected] www.brighousebay-golfclub.co.ukSuperb 1200 acre coastal location 18-hole, 6501 yard, par 73 golf course. 9-hole family course, driving range, practice area, indoor swimming pool with toddlers pool, Jacuzzi, games room, bar and bistro. Golfing breaks available.

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Open: All year. 1 Mar-31 Oct: 10am-11pm. 1 Nov-1 Mar: restricted hours.

Admission: Please contact leisure club for prices.

COLVEND E5Colvend Golf ClubColvend, Sandyhills, Dalbeattie DG5 4PY T: 01556 630398 F: 01556 630495 [email protected] www.colvendgolfclub.co.uk18 challenging holes on picturesque course with superb views over the Galloway Hills and Solway Firth.

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Open: All year.Admission: Round tickets

Day tickets

DUMFRIES F4Dumfries & County Golf ClubEdinburgh Road, Dumfries DG1 1JX T: 01387 253585 [email protected] www.thecounty.org.ukBeautifully mature parkland course with USGA Standard greens. A challenge to all levels of golfer.

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Open: All year.Admission: See website for green fee deals.

Leisure Activities


GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5Gatehouse Golf ClubGatehouse of Fleet DG7 2BE T: 01557 814766 [email protected] www.gatehousegolfclub.comA little gem of a course set in the beautiful Fleet Valley.

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Open: All year.Admission:

KIRKCUDBRIGHT (3 miles) D5Tongland Family Golf Centre

T: 01556 680226 [email protected] www.tonglandgolf.co.ukFamily Golf Centre offering par 3 course, covered driving range plus grass tees, putting area, tuition, club and trolly hire and small pro shop and café. All ages and abilities welcomed.

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ooo Activity Centre ƒ&

Open: All year. Apr-Oct, Mon-Sun, 9.30am-8pm. Nov-Mar, Mon-Sun, 9.30am-6pm.

Admission:

LANGHOLM H3Langholm Golf Course

M: 0772 487 5151 [email protected] www.langholmgolfclub.co.ukPicturesque hillside course with spectacular views. Signature hole is short par 4 over a gully but with gully in front of green and out of bounds behind-a 4 is a good score.

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Open: All year. Daylight hours.Admission:

LOCKERBIE G3Lockerbie Golf Club

T: 01576 203363 [email protected] www.lockerbiegolf.co.uk18-hole parkland golf course (5,463 yards) with stunning views of the Solway and

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Open: All year, all day.Admission:

MONREITH C5St Medan Golf ClubMonreith, Newton Stewart DG8 8NJ T: 01988 700358 [email protected] www.stmedangolfclub.comFriendly 9-hole course with 18 tees on

Scotland.

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Open: All year. Clubhouse: Mar-Oct, daily. Course: daylight hours.

Admission: See website.

NEW GALLOWAY D3New Galloway Golf ClubHigh Street, New Galloway DG7 3RN T: 01644 420737 [email protected] www.nggc.co.ukA delightful 9-hole golf course which is a gem among rural courses in Scotland.

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Open: All year.Green fees:

Buggies for hire.

PORTPATRICK A5Portpatrick (Dunskey & Dinvin) Golf ClubGolf Course Road, Portpatrick, Stranraer DG9 8TB T: 01776 810273 [email protected] www.portpatrickgolfclub.comSuperbly presented clifftop golf courses overlooking Irish coastline. Fabulous greens. A warm welcome awaits you! 50

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Junior (under 18) half stated price.

POWFOOT, by ANNAN G4Powfoot Golf ClubCummertrees, Annan DG12 5QE T: 01461 204100 F: 01461 204111 [email protected] www.powfootgolfclub.comDesigned by the legendary James Braid in 1903 and set in breathtaking scenery in Dumfriessshire, Powfoot Golf Course presents a mixture of both links and parkland golf of the highest standard. 50

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Pop into a VisitScotland Information Centre and pick up a free copy of the

Dumfries & Galloway Golf Guide

Thornhill Golf Club

SOUTHERNESS F5Southerness Golf ClubSoutherness, Dumfries DG2 8AZ T: 01387 880677 [email protected] www.southernessgolfclub.comSuperb Championship links course on Solway coast with magnificent views of Cumbrian and Kirkcudbrightshire hills.

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Leisure Centres/Swimming Pools

CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Castle Douglas Sports CentreDunmuir Road, Castle Douglas. At Castle Douglas High School T: 07731 658 781 Four court games hall and gymnasium for multi sport activities with a two court floodlit outdoor multi use games area.

149 CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Castle Douglas Swimming Pool & Fitness SuiteMarket Street, Castle Douglas T: 01556 502745 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.ukMain pool and sauna. Pool has 4 lanes and is 15.75m long. Profiles+ Fitness Suite with air conditioning and satellite TV. Variety of sessions including swimming lessons, public and lane swimming, aqua aerobics, fun sessions and 50+ activities. 18

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ooo Leisure Centre %

Open: All year. Phone for details or see www.dumgal.gov.uk or [email protected]

Admission: Admission cost varies depending on activity.

150 CASTLE DOUGLAS AND NEWTON STEWART E4-C4Carlingwark and Stronord Outdoor Centres Carlingwark, Castle Douglas T: 01556 504146 Stronord, Newton Stewart T: 01671 402185 www.dumgal.gov.uk/outdooractivitiesWe can provide exhilarating and safe outdoor activity sessions that help you attain your aims for your group as part of a residential experience or on a non-residential basis. Activities we provide include, sailing, canoeing, mountain biking, climbing, orienteering and hillwalking.

151 DALBEATTIE E4Dalbeattie Sports CentreHaugh Road, Dalbeattie At Dalbeattie High School T: 01556 611365 Four court games hall and gymnasium for multi sport activities.

119 DUMFRIES F4

Barracuda Club, Cairndale Hotel & Leisure ClubEnglish Street, Dumfries DG1 2DF T: 01387 254111 F: 01387 240288 [email protected] www.cairndalehotel.co.ukLocated within the Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries, the Barracuda Club offers 14m heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room, hot spa bath and gym. Limited number of day passes.

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All year. Sun-Fri: 7am-10pm (last entry 9.30pm). Sat: 7am-8pm (last entry 7.30pm). Please note that

.Admission: Adult day pass £10, Child day pass £5, monthly

Great days out – Leisure Activities


152 DUMFRIES F4David Keswick Athletic Centre Marchmount, Dumfries T: 01387 269423A 400m all-weather surface, 8 lane all weather athletics running track, five-court sports hall, two gyms and Profiles+ Fitness Suite with 15 fitness stations, Strength and Conditioning suite. The facility provides fitness classes, basketball, badminton, football, Sports Saturday club and many more children’s activities.

Tee off at fantastic golf courses

www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk/golf

Southerness Golf Club

118 DUMFRIES F4

DG OneHoods Loaning, Dumfries DG1 2HT T: 01387 243550 F: 01387 263809 [email protected] Enjoy three separate swimming pool areas including leisure water. Benefit from our fitness suite. Try our great range of sports in the biggest sports hall in the whole region. See our What’s On Guide.

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oooo Leisure Centre $

153 DUMFRIES F4Dumfries Ice BowlKing Street, Dumfries DG2 9AN T: 01387 251300 [email protected] Situated in central Dumfries. Perfect for all your ice sport needs. Please call for details on activities and programmes. Skating, curling and ice hockey.

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oooo Leisure CentreOpen: Sep-Mar: Mon-Thur, 10am-11.30pm; Fri, 7am-11.30pm;

Sat, 6am-11.30pm; Sun, 8am-11.30pm. Mar-May: Mon-Thur, 9am-10pm; Fri, 8am-11pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-6pm. Phone 01387 251300 for skating & curling session times.

154 DUMFRIES F4King George V All Weather Complex Glasgow Road, Dumfries T: 01387 248218 www.dumgal.gov.ukThis complex comprises a full size, floodlit synthetic football pitch and multi-park area with three tennis courts. The facility provides a Profiles+ Fitness Suite with air conditioning and Sky TV. Showers and changing available.

155 KELLOHOLM, by SANQUHAR E2Hillview Leisure Centre and Multi Play AreaKirkland Drive, Kelloholm T: 01659 67777 Profiles+ Fitness Suite with 11 fitness stations and full size indoor sports hall with pool and entertainment room as well as a multi-use outdoor astro pitch.

157 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Kirkcudbright Sports CentreSt Mary’s Wynd, Kirkcudbright At Kirkcudbright Academy T: 01557 331281 Four-court games hall and gymnasium for multi sport activities.

157 KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5Kirkcudbright Swimming PoolDG6 4AW T: 01557 331881 www.kbtpool.co.ukClean, safe & friendly. Built & run by the community. 20m pool, well-equipped gym, including PowerPlate. Charity No. SCO 04144.

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Open: All year.Admission: Contact pool for opening times and prices.

158 NEWTON STEWART C4Merrick Leisure CentreCrosbie Road, Newton Stewart DG8 6JQ T: 01671 404301 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/merrickOffers quality leisure facilities’including a 3-court games hall and fitness suite. It has a 25 metre swimming pool, used for a combination of lane swimming and more sociable water activities as well as a spa and sauna. Find us on Facebook. 38

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ooo Leisure Centre %

Open: All year. Mon-Fri: 7am-10pm. Sat-Sun: 10am-5pm. N.B. This facility is utilised by the school during term-time, therefore there is restricted access to facilities. Please check prior to your visit.

159 SANQUHAR E2The Fun Pool & Fitness SuiteBlackaddie Road, Sanquhar DG4 6AD T: 01659 58018 [email protected] Situated in the grounds of Buccleuch Estate The Funpool hosts a 16.7m main pool and a 8m training pool. Health suite and an 18 piece gym to keep you busy. Every Wednesday 11.45-12.30pm and 7.15-8pm we have water aerobics. The facility also has excellent disabled access. 72

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oooo Leisure CentreOpen: All year.

12.30-9pm most days, please see timetable.Admission: Adult £2.95, Child £1.75, Conc £1.55.

Connect with us...



160 SANQUHAR E2Lorimer Park Athletics Track and Play AreaSanquhar T: 01659 50347 Four lane athletics track, long jump pit, playing fields, children’s play equipment, putting and trampolines.

123 STRANRAER A4Ryan CentreFairhurst Road, Stranraer DG9 7AP T: 01776 703535 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/ryancentre Swimming pool including 25m 4 lane main pool, leisure water and flumes. Games hall, movement room, Profiles+ Fitness and Health Suite. Dedicated under 16s fitness suite. Café, soft play area. Theatre, cinema, lounge bar and conference facilities. Find us on Facebook – The Ryan Centre and Theatre. 52

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oooo Leisure CentreOpen: All year.

Mon-Fri, 8am-10.30pm. Sat & Sun, 8am-5pm.

Parks and Play Areas

CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Lochside ParkCastle Douglas

enjoying the views. This park has two children’s play areas, pedalo boats, rowing boats and putting.

Open: Park-All year. Activities seasonal. Open: Apr-Sep. Early season; Sat-Sun only, Jul-Aug; daily.

Admission: Free.

DALBEATTIE E4Colliston ParkDalbeattieEnjoy spending time in Colliston Park either strolling or enjoying a seat overlooking the pond. Features include the iron latticework bridge and the bandstand constructed with gas light columns from Glasgow.

Open: Paddle boats and putting: Apr-Sep. Early season: Sat-Sun only. Jul-Aug: daily.

Admission: Free.

DUMFRIES F4Dock & Castledykes Park Multi Play Area Dumfries T: 01387 265825Have a great time in two of Dumfries’ best known parks. You can take part in activities such as tennis, bowling, putting and trampolining in Dock Park. Both of these picturesque parks have children’s play areas. Admission free.

MOFFAT F2MoffatasiaStation Park, Moffat T: 01683 220912Interactive water play feature with fountains of fun for everyone. Also boating lake, putting green, children’s play area and picnic benches.

Open: Apr-Sep. Mon-Sun, weather depending.Admission: Free.

STRANRAER A4Agnew ParkStranraer T: 01776 703535

Putting greens, educational play area, miniature railway, mini car racing circuit, pavilion/café. Pleasant walkways through gardens. Opening hours variable.Admission free.

oo Visitor Attraction


Leisure Activities

The Green Tourism Business Scheme

By using businesses that participate in The Green Tourism Business Scheme you are helping to maintain Scotland’s unique natural heritage for generations to come.

Join us in the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 and enjoy our greatest asset and celebrate our reputation as a land of outstanding beauty.

Businesses that work in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way are awarded Bronze , Silver ß, or Gold ©.

For more information visit www.green-business.co.uk

cotland is a stunning destination!

Let’s keep it that way

S

Dumfries & Galloway produces a stunning array of delicious produce, from smoked fish to award-winning meat, and mature cheeses to refreshing ice creams.

01

Savour the flavours

Spend a peaceful few hours enjoying homebaking in a café, dine in an exquisite restaurant or visit one of the producers to see how the fresh local ingredients go from farm to table.

You can attend a number of great food events which take place across the region, promoting the excellent produce and talented local chefs.

Celebrate Dumfries & Galloway’s delicious local food and drink at Flavour Fortnight in September.

Pick up some local produce at one of the 12 farmers’ markets throughout the region including Dumfries Farmers’ Market, which has around 30 stalls with meat, game, cheeses, fish, home grown vegetables, breads and baking for sale, along with many other items.

Thistle ‘B’ Scrumptious in Castle Douglas is just one of the region’s stores which offer a whole host of foodie delights, working closely with many Scottish producers to sell eggs, meats, cheeses and more, alongside arts and crafts gifts.

Kilnford Barns Farm Shop, west of Dumfries, has a top quality butcher, deli and larder offering a range of foods, wine and beer alongside beautiful local crafts and gifts.

The Loch Arthur Creamery and Farm Shop, 6 miles from Dumfries, offers hand-made, organic cheeses, which have been winning major accolades for almost 20 years. A new farm shop and café opened in 2012.

• Taste real local ale from the region and learn the secrets of preparing the traditional tipple at Sulwath Brewers in Castle Douglas.

• For regional fish, you can visit one of the smokehouses such as Marrbury Smokehouse near Carsluith, and the Galloway Smokehouse, on the A75 between Gatehouse of Fleet and Newton Stewart, to see the traditional smoking process for Scottish salmon.

• The region is also famed for its tasty ice cream, such as Glen Urr, who also make ice cream cakes, and Cream o’ Galloway, which produces around 30 award-winning flavours with natural ingredients and organic milk from their own farm near Gatehouse of Fleet.

Did youknow?

Gallie Craig Coffee House was custom built into the cliff edge, giving it a grass

roof and a terrace with amazing views.

Dumfries & Galloway


03

Don’ t miss... Flavour Fortnight, showcasing great

local produce from 31st August to 15th September.

Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway’s Food Town.

Farmers’ markets throughout the region.

Savour the fl avours

02

There are a number of fantastic cafés and restaurants throughout the region where you can try delicious local produce. Try local Galloway beef steaks and Wigtownshire lamb at Campbell’s restaurant in Portpatrick.

The Del Amitri Restaurant in Annan is a traditional style restaurant which produces fantastic dishes with Scottish and European influences, using the finest local produce where possible.

Enjoy a delicious range of cakes and tray bakes at Neilson’s Coffee Shop, open all year round at Barstobrick Visitor Centre.

On the green banks of River Bladnoch you’ll find Scotland’s most southerly distillery, where you can spend the morning on a guided tour. At Bladnoch Distillery you can see the whisky-making process right the way from the grain to the cask, by wandering through the warehouses filled with

maturing whisky and inhale the heady vapours of the Tun Room. Continue on through the distillery gardens before the tour finishes in the Dramming Room where you can enjoy a dram of Bladnoch’s finest single malt whisky.

01 Artisan cheese making at Loch Arthur Creamery, Beeswing.02 The wash still, Bladnoch Distillery.03 Afternoon tea at Abbey Cottage, New Abbey.04 Sulwath beer, produced in Castle Douglas.

04

Drummuir Farm ice cream – over 20 fl avours available each day

Thistle ‘B’ Scrumptious – 2012 winner of Thistle Award for Best Shopping Experience.

Savour the fl avours


Cafés

By CARSLUITH C5

Marrbury Smokehouse at Carsluith CastleNear Gatehouse of Fleet, Wigtownshire DG8 6RW T/F: 01671 820476 [email protected] www.visitmarrbury.co.ukPeoples Awards Food Champions 2010. Highly acclaimed Marrbury Smokehouse shop and luxury café. Haven for food lovers, Vincent and Ruby Marr personally welcome guests with tastings of traditionally smoked luxury Scottish foods. Historic Castle with free entry on site.

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Open: Vary according to season. Please telephone first if travelling a long distance. (Call for details of evening opening times for bistro.)

Admission: Free.

CASTLE KENNEDY, STRANRAER A4Castle Kennedy & GardensCastle Kennedy, Stranraer DG9 8SJ T: 01581 400225 F:01776 706248 [email protected] www.castlekennedygardens.co.ukEnjoy delicious home-baking and light lunches in our charming tearoom (free entry) overlooking the gardens and gift shop. 18

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oooo Garden &ƒ,

Open: Feb-Mar: Weekends only, 10am-5pm. Apr-Oct: Daily, 10am-5pm.

Admission: Adult £5, Concs £3.50, Child £3.50, Family £11. Discount for groups. (See display advert on page 61).

COLLIN, by DUMFRIES F4

Drummuir Farm Ice CreamClarencefield Road, Collin, Dumfries DG1 4PX

www.drummuirfarm.co.ukHome made ice cream, light lunches and home baking. Enjoy a freshly made coffee whilst the children play outside, or the wee ones have fun in our indoor toddler area. We are just 2 miles from the A75, with ample parking and situated in beautiful countryside.

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Open: Mar-Dec. Open weekends Mar: 10.30am-5.30pm. Apr-Sep: daily, 10.30am-5.30pm. Oct-Christmas: weekends, 10.30am-4.30pm.

DUMFRIES F4

Garden Wise Plant and Garden CentreCastle Douglas Road, Dumfries DG2 8PP T: 01387 262654 F:01387 263663 [email protected] gardenwise-dumfries.co.ukOne of the largest independently-owned garden centres in Scotland. Wide selection of healthy plants, garden sundries. Superb coffee shop: all food home-made on the premises and simply delicious. Enjoy a leisurely visit no matter how bad the weather.

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oooo Garden Centre ‰

10am). Coffee shop closes 4.30pm.


DUMFRIES F4Kings12 Queensberry Street, Dumfries DG1 4EX T: 01387 254444 www.kingsonline.co.uk

speciality coffee and teas in a relaxed atmosphere. With breakfast and lunch

well worth a visit.

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Open: All year.

Connect with us...



DUMFRIES F4

Pumpernickel

[email protected] www.pumpernickelcatering.co.ukCafé serving tasty wholesome food in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy snacks such as filled rolls, toasties, baguettes, paninis, baked potatoes and home baking or enjoy a main meal from our extensive menu and daily

child friendly.

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Open: All year. Summer opening times: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Winter opening times: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.

Join us in the Year of Natural Scotland2013 as we celebrate Scotland’snatural heritage, plan your tripand experience it for yourself!


Luce Bay

DUMFRIES F4

Tarff Valley Ltd

T: 01387 261661 F: 01387 240184 [email protected] A one-stop shop for the horse and small animal lover, alongside innovative ranges that include giftware, clothing and local foods. Relax and enjoy the freshly-brewed tea, coffee and delicious home baking in our Coffee Shop.

oooo Tourist Shop $‰

Open: All year. Mon-Sat, 8am-5.30pm. Sun, 10am-4pm.

GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5

Cream o’ GallowayRainton, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2DR T: 01557 815222 F: 0808 280 2162 [email protected] www.creamogalloway.co.ukVisit the home of Cream o’ Galloway luxury ice cream for the most scrumptious flavours. Indulge in an ice cream sundae or book the ice cream tasting event to sample 10 of the 30 flavours. (See display advert on inside back cover).

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oooo Visitor Attraction ©

Food & Drink


GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5

Galloway Lodge PreservesFleetvale, High Street, Gatehouse Of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2HR T: 01557 814001 F: 01557 814005 [email protected] www.gallowaylodge.co.ukAward-winning producers of the finest preserves. Visit our beautiful coffee house and gift shop, if you are looking for

to suit all budgets.

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(last orders in cafe 4.30pm every day).

LOCH KEN, CASTLE DOUGLAS D4

Galloway Activity CentreShirmers Bridge, Loch Ken, Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NQ T/F: 01644 420626 [email protected] www.lochken.co.ukNew Waterfront Café serving a range of delicious home-made soups, freshly baked treats and freshly prepared hot and cold food. The café is within the activity centre and has fantastic views across Loch Ken. Relax and enjoy the great views while watching some of the activities on offer.

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oooo Activity Centre &E

MULL OF GALLOWAY, DRUMMORE B6

Gallie Craig Coffee House

www.galliecraig.co.ukVisit the award-winning Gallie Craig coffee shop/restaurant perched on the cliff edge with breathtaking panoramic

the delicious freshly-prepared food and home baking.

‰

Open: Feb-Nov. Apr-end Oct: daily, 10am-5.30pm. Winter hours (Nov, Feb, Mar): open 5 days (closed

NEW ABBEY F4

Abbey Cottage Coffees & Crafts26 Main Street, New Abbey, Dumfries DG2 8BY T: 01387 850377 F: 01848 200536 [email protected] www.abbeycottagetearoom.comCottage Restaurant, beside Sweetheart Abbey, serving coffees, teas and light meals throughout the day. Guild of Tea Shops “Award of Excellence” 2012. Past Winner of

gift shop.

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1 Apr-31 Oct: Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm.

NEWTON STEWART C4Cinnamon 2007 Ltd73-75 Victoria Street,

T: 01387 254444 [email protected] www.cinnamon-online.co.ukA wheelchair/pram friendly café, gifts and Christian book shop. Take away. See website. 83

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Open: All year.

Will open evenings for groups.

ƒE

Sharing an ice cream at Cream o’ Galloway.

Great days out – Food & Drink


RINGFORD D4

Neilson’s Coffee Shop @ BarstobrickRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukHome made food using local ingredients. Warm welcome. Friendly service. Breakfast, morning Coffee, lunches and afternoon tea available. Ample parking. Watch the horses in the indoor arena through the viewing window while you have lunch.

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ooo Visitor AttractionOpen: All year. Mar-Oct: daily, 10am-6pm.

Nov-Feb: Fri, Sat, Sun, 10am-4pm.

STRANRAER A4Stir-it

This welcoming coffee shop offers a fabulous range of homemade soups and sandwiches, sumptuous salads and a wide selction of

place to stop.

Open: All year. Mon-Sat, 10am-4.30pm.

Farm Shop/Café

By DUMFRIES F4

Kilnford Barns Farm ShopThe Glen, Dumfries DG2 8PT T: 01387 253087 [email protected] www.kilnford.co.uk

gifts, enjoy the play area and nature trail.

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oooo Tourist Shop ‰

Restaurants

AUCHENCAIRN, CASTLE DOUGLAS E5

Balcary Bay Hotel RestaurantAuchencairn, Shore Road, Castle Douglas DG7 1QZ T: 01556 640217 [email protected] www.balcary-bay-hotel.co.ukAward-winning cuisine, based on local Scottish fare with a classic French influence. Bistro-style lunch menu available seven days a week; Sunday lunch offers a three-course meal in our restaurant. Dinner menu changes daily. Non-residents welcome. (See display advert on page 60).

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$‰

CREETOWN C4The Laird’s InnCastle Cary Holiday Park, Creetown, Newton Stewart DG8 7DQ T: 01671 820361 [email protected] www.thelairdsinn.co.ukCountry inn in beautiful surroundings serving locally sourced food expertly

Open:

Nov-Dec: weekends only.

CROCKETFORD E4

Galloway Arms HotelCrocketford DG2 8RA

[email protected] www.gallowayarmshotel.co.uk

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Open: All year.

DUMFRIES F4Brasserie 59 The Aston Hotel, Bankend Road, The Crichton, Dumfries DG1 4ZZ T: 01387 272410 [email protected] www.astonhotels.co.ukA first-class experience: traditional cuisine, extensive wine list, contemporary design. Special dietary

. 5871

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Open: All year.

DUMFRIES F4

Casa Mia

[email protected] www.casamiadumfries.co.ukCasa Mia has earned a reputation as one of Dumfries

situated minutes from Town Centre, this delightful place is set in a secluded corner on the banks of the River Nith.

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‰

Open: All year.

Connect with us...



DUMFRIES F4

Courtyard Bistro at the Best Western Station Hotel

T: 01387 254316 www.stationhoteldumfries.co.ukChoose from our à la carte menu or our seasonal Daily Specials for a simple supper or special occasion dinner. Exciting variety of traditional and contemporary home-cooked dishes from Haggis, Tatties and Neeps to Tempura Prawns. Friendly service in a relaxing atmosphere.

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Open: All year.


Food & Drink



KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5

Selkirk Arms Hotel

[email protected] The award winning Selkirk Arms Hotel offers either casual dining for both lunch and dinner in the Bistro and al-fresco in the garden or a more formal dining experience in Artistas restaurant. Superb choice of ales, wines and malts.

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Open: All year.

PORTPATRICK A5Campbell’s Restaurant

[email protected] www.campbellsrestaurant.co.uk

of local fresh produce. Set amidst a prime location overlooking Portpatrick Bay. Offering friendly service and select wines in relaxing surroundings.

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Open:

PORTPATRICK A5

The Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant

T: 01776 810800 F: 01776 810850 [email protected] www.waterfronthotel.comSituated in the scenic village of Portpatrick with stunning harbour and sea views. Comprehensive choice of freshly cooked food, mostly from local produce, with particular emphasis on a wide array of seafood including locally

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RINGFORD D4

The School House

T: 01557 820250 [email protected] www.schoolhouseringford.comThe Schoolhouse is a light airy restaurant. Created from a former school. Everything is prepared on the premises by the owners from the finest and where possible local ingredients. Great food and a friendly welcome.

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Open: Feb-Dec.

SANQUHAR E2Blackaddie House Hotel

[email protected] www.blackaddiehotel.co.ukAward-winning food in a beautiful country house on the banks of the river Nith.

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Open: All year.

Retail

BEESWING E4

Loch Arthur Creamery, Farm Shop and Café

www.locharthur.org.uk Award-winning organic farmhouse cheeses, fruit, vegetables, meat, eggs and freshly baked breads, cakes, biscuits and pies, produced on our own farm or sourced as locally as possible. Plus an extensive range of fine foods, baskets, pottery and crafts.Relax in our new café, serving simple home-made fare in a truly beautiful setting.

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Open: All year.

Closed Sundays.

CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Castle Douglas Food [email protected] www.cd-foodtown.org

and visit around 50 independent shops and cafés/restaurants.

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CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Thistle ’B‘ Scrumptious207 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DT T: 01556 504006 M: 0799 956 2644 [email protected] www.thistlebscrumptious.co.ukSome of the best produce Scotland’s larder has to offer. Scottish Thistle Award National winner, Best Shopping Experience 2012.

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oooo Tourist ShopOpen: Feb-Dec. Feb-Mar: 10am-3.30pm.

Apr-Dec: 10am 4.30pm. (See display advert on page 68).

For a list of exciting events taking place throughout Dumfries & Galloway

see pages 54-55

Artist’s studio during Spring Fling

CASTLE DOUGLAS E4The Toffee Shop

[email protected]

chocolates, traditional boilings,

Open: All year.

DUMFRIES F4T.B. Watson – Specialist Wine & Spirit Merchant11/17 English Street, Dumfries DG1 2BU T: 01387 256601 M: 0771 356 6222 F: 01387 256601 [email protected] www.drambusters.comIndependent specialist with over 800 whiskies, plus other spirits, wines, crystal and great gift ideas. 57

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Open: All year. Mon-Fri, 9am-5.30pm. Sat, 9.30am-5.30pm. (No alcohol sales prior to 10am on any day.) (See display advert on page 67).


Great days out – Food & Drink

Antiques

NEW ABBEY, by DUMFRIES F4Admirable AntiquesThe Old Garage, 54 Main Street, New Abbey DG2 8BY T: 01387 257757 [email protected] www.admirableantiques.co.ukAntique and quality reproduction furniture, fine art, silverware, glassware, ceramics, collectables and garden ornaments. 92

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Open: Apr-Oct: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun & Bank Holidays 11am-4pm. Nov-Mar: Wed-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun & Bank Holidays 11am-4pm.

Arts

CASTLE DOUGLAS E4McGill Duncan Gallery231 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DT T: 01556 502468 [email protected] www.mcgillduncangallery.comSelling works by national and international artists, and Scottish paintings from the 19th century onwards. 84

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Open: All year. Mon-Sat,10am-5pm.

Crafts

DUMFRIES F4Dumfries VisitScotland Information Centre64 Whitesands, Dumfries DG1 2RS T: 01387 253862 [email protected] www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.ukAn out of the ordinary Information Centre with a series of public artworks within the building and garden patio area. Range of local art and craftwork on display and available for sale. Agent for National Express, Citylink, Stena Line ferries to Ireland. Agent for local event tickets, fishing permits and Gateway to Golf Passes. Open all year.Admission free.

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DUMFRIES F4Strands Gallery Shop30 Great King Street, Dumfries DG1 1BD T: 01387 266666 [email protected] make our own unique range of jewellery, 'Slate & Silver', slate inlaid with silver. We also stock a superb selection of exceptional jewellery, glass and craft by British designer-makers and craftspeople. Individual and distinctive gifts.

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Open: All year. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm.Admission: Free.

SANQUHAR E2A’ The Airts8-12 High Street, Sanquhar DG4 6BL T: 01659 50514 M: 0778 713 4368 [email protected] www.all-the-airts.comUpper Nithsdale’s vibrant Community Arts Centre: retail outlet, specialising in locally produced arts and crafts, including Sanquhar Pattern items; gallery with rolling exhibitions of artwork; theatre; community cinema; Café Airtisans provides refreshments and tasty snacks.

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Open: All year. Mon-Sun, 10am-4pm, plus evening performances.

Admission: Shop and Gallery free. Theatre and Cinema charged individually.

Shops

CARSLUITH C5Galloway SmokehouseCarsluith, Newton Stewart DG8 7DN T: 01671 820354 [email protected] the very best in home smoked foods, freshly landed fish and shellfish cooked daily.

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ooo Tourist ShopOpen: All year. 9am-5.30pm.

Shopping at Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop.

Shopping


CASTLE DOUGLAS E4Castle Douglas Gem ShopKing Street, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 1LU T: 01556 503254 www.outbackyarns.co.ukFantastic, unique, art and craft shop with gem stones and jewellery, wool and paint, craft materials and fabrics. Amazing selection of all sorts. Well worth a visit.

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Open: All year. Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm.

CASTLE DOUGLAS E4James Kirk & Sons198 King Street, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 1DB T: 01556 502672 [email protected] www.kirkshoes.co.ukShoe fitting specialists stocking AA-EEEE fittings. Women’s shoes ranging from sizes 2-10, gent’s from 5-13. Stockists of Ecco, Van Dal and Rieker. Outdoor clothing, handbags and leather goods. (See display advert on page 62).

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Open: All year. Mon-Sat, 9.30am-5pm.

Looking for glorious gardens?

www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk/gardens

Logan Botanic Garden, Port Logan

DUMFRIES F3

Dalscone Farm Fun & ToysEdinburgh Road, Dumfries DG1 1SE T: 01387 254445 (shop) [email protected] is a family adventure farm and toy shop located in Dumfries, Scotland. Attractions include a soft play area, a coffee shop and a farm park including trampolines, pedal karts, lots of animals and much more! (See display advert on page 62).

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oooo Visitor Attraction

area, coffee shop and toy shop open all year.Admission: Admission charges apply.

DUMFRIES F4

Garden Wise Plant and Garden CentreCastle Douglas Road, Dumfries DG2 8PP T: 01387 262654 F:01387 263663 [email protected] gardenwise-dumfries.co.ukOne of the largest independently-owned garden centres in Scotland. Wide selection of healthy plants, garden sundries. Superb coffee shop: all food home-made on the premises and simply delicious. Enjoy a leisurely visit no matter how bad the weather.

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oooo Garden Centre ‰

Coffee shop closes 4.30pm.


DUMFRIES F4

Hetland Garden CentreCarrutherstown, Dumfries DG1 4JX T: 01387 840632 [email protected] www.hetlandgardencentre.co.ukFriendly and family-owned. A wide range of plants available, an undercover area and lovely walks through the Dinopark. Large tearoom – all food freshly prepared. Gift shop and home hardware department. Award-winning Christmas displays.

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oooo Garden Centre $

Open: All year, 7 days a week. (Dinopark opening Spring 2013.) See our advert on page 59.

DUMFRIES F4

Tarff Valley LtdLockerbie Road, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway DG1 3PF T: 01387 261661 F: 01387 240184 [email protected] one-stop shop for the horse and small animal lover, alongside innovative ranges that include giftware, clothing and local foods. Relax and enjoy the freshly-brewed tea, coffee and delicious home baking in our Coffee Shop.

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oooo Tourist Shop $‰

Open: All year. Mon-Sat, 8am-5.30pm. Sun, 10am-4pm.

DUMFRIES F4T.B. Watson – Specialist Wine & Spirit Merchant11/17 English Street, Dumfries DG1 2BU T: 01387 256601 M: 0771 356 6222 F: 01387 256601 [email protected] www.drambusters.comIndependent specialist with over 800 whiskies, plus other spirits, wines, crystal and great gift ideas. 57

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Open: All year. Mon-Fri, 9am-5.30pm. Sat, 9.30am-5.30pm. (No alcohol sales prior to 10am on any day.) (See display advert on page 67).

GRETNA G4

Gretna Gateway Outlet VillageGlasgow Road, Gretna DG16 5GG T: 01461 339028 [email protected] www.gretnagateway.comRight on the Scottish border, 1 minute from Gretna exit M74/M6/A75, Gretna Gateway has 50 shops and 5 cafés selling big brands at fantastic outlet prices, every time you visit! (See display advert on page 67).

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ooooo Tourist ShopOpen: All year. 10am-6pm, 7 days a week.

RINGFORD D4

Farm Shop @ Barstobrick Visitor CentreRingford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AU T/F: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukNext to Neilson’s Coffee Shop. Beef and lamb from our own family farms. Ready meals and home baking available to purchase. Range of local foods and crafts on display. Ample parking.

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ooo Visitor AttractionOpen: All year. Mar-Oct: daily, 10am-6pm.

Nov-Feb: Fri, Sat, Sun, 10am-4pm.

Great days out – Shopping


By road

You can travel around using one of the three tourist routes.

The Galloway Tourist Route takes you from the motorway at Gretna along the scenic Solway Coast through beautifully charming villages, market towns and alongside the Galloway Forest Park.

The Burns Heritage Trail takes you on a journey through Robert Burns’ life in Dumfries & Galloway from Sanquhar to Dumfries, Dalbeattie to Kirkcudbright, and Gatehouse of Fleet to Newton Stewart – allowing you the chance to visit the museums and visitor centres spread throughout the region.

To admire the coastline, take the Solway Coast Heritage Trail which runs between the vast tidal flats of the Solway Firth at Annan and the towering sea cliffs of the Rhinns, to Scotland’s most southerly point at the Mull of Galloway.

By bus

A very convenient local bus service connects all the little villages and main towns, making it easy to visit the attractions, restaurants and shops.

By rail

Trains run in the east side of the region from Gretna Green through Annan, Dumfries, Sanquhar and Kirkconnell, whilst in the west, you can go from Stranraer through to Glasgow.

Travel tips

There are a number of ways to travel around Dumfries & Galloway, making it easy for you to take in as much as you can while visiting the region. Take one of the local buses or drive along the peaceful country roads between the many attractions, museums and activity centres.

01

Where to fi nd out moreFind all you want to do in Dumfries & Galloway in one place. At a VisitScotland Information Centre we’ll tell you everything there is to see and do and help with everything else you’ll need for your visit. Our friendly experts can offer advice and inspiration on all things local as well as sharing their wider knowledge of Scotland.

Please refer to the list of VisitScotland Information Centres on page 16.

01 Local bus service, Dumfries town centre.

Dumfries & Galloway


Tours

CARLISLE (5 miles) H5Border Air ToursHangar 30, Carlisle Airport, Carlisle, Cumbria CA6 4NW T: 01228 573490 [email protected] www.borderair.co.ukScenic flight tours of Southern Scotland and the Borders. 88

267

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Open: All year. Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm.Admission: For ticket prices see website.



Genealogy

DUMFRIES F4Dumfries & Galloway LibrariesArchive Centre, 33 Burns Street, Dumfries T: 01387 269254 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/liaFor family or historical research. Offers council, court and kirk records of Dumfries from c16th on as well as papers of local families, firms, societies. Fee based research service available.

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Open: All year. Tues-Wed, Fri: 11am-1pm, 2-5pm. Thurs: 6-9pm.

Admission: Free.

DUMFRIES F4Ewart Public LibraryCatherine Street, Dumfries T: 01387 253820 dumgal.gov.uk/liaA large collection of local studies material, including genealogical sources. Lending facilities available for visitors on proof of identity. A cybercentre offers free access to the internet and e-mail. Fee-based research service available.

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Open: All year. Mon-Wed, Fri 9.15am-7.30pm. Thur & Sat, 9.15am-5pm.

Admission: Free.

Health and Beauty

DUMFRIES F4Jacquies Beauty34 Whitesands, Dumfries DG1 2RS T: 01387 269077 [email protected] www.jacquiesbeauty.co.ukScottish Beauty Salon of the year 2011. Specialist treatments available for men, women and teenagers.

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Open: All year. Tues & Wed: 9am-6pm. Thurs: 9am-8pm. Fri: 9am-6pm. Sat: 9am-4pm.

For more information onDumfries & Galloway


Drumlanrig Castle

Transport

DUMFRIES F4Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental T: 0844 875 9756 [email protected] www.arnoldclarkrental.comThe largest Scottish rental company, with an extensive range of vehicles, from small cars to people carriers, 4x4’s, estates and automatics. Prices from £25 per day. One-way hire available. Extras include child seats and sat nav’s. Professional and easy to use service. 12

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Open: All year.

DUMFRIES F4Solway MotorHome Hire c/o Palmerston Furniture, 36 Terregles Street, Dumfries DG2 9AN T: 01387 248191 M: 0785 074 5191 [email protected] www.solwaymotorhomes.co.ukMotorhome hire situated in Dumfries, south west Scotland near the Solway Coast, it’s an ideal starting point if you wish to tour the beauty of the Solway Coast or a tour of Scotland.

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Open: All year.

Local bus at Wanlockhead, Scotland’s highest village.

Great days out – Local Services


Tours

January25 – 27Big Burns SupperVarious venues, Dumfries F4

www.bigburnssupper.com

February2 – 17 MarSnowdrop FestivalThroughout Dumfries & Galloway www.visitscotland.com/snowdrop

March29 – 31 MayWild SpringVarious venues across Dumfries & Galloway www.wildspringfestival.com

April6Feed the Red Kites Open DayKite Feeding Station,Bellymack Hill Farm, Laurieston D4

www.gallowaykitetrail.com

27Royal Burgh of Dumfries TattooCounty Buildings Car Park,Newall Terrace, Dumfries F4

www.facebook.com

May10 – 12Moniaive Folk FestivalMoniaive Village E3

www.moniaivefolkfestival.co.uk

10 – 16Newton Stewart Walking FestivalLocations around Newton Stewart C4

www.newtonstewartwalkfest.com

17 – 19Muckle Toon Outdoor FestivalLangholm Rugby Football Ground H3

www.muckletoonadventurefestival.co.uk

23 – 26World CeilidhKnockengorroch, Carsphairn,Castle Douglas D3

www.knockengorroch.org.uk

25 – 26British and Scottish Gold Panning ChampionshipsHidden Treasures, Museum ofLead Mining, Wanlockhead E2

www.leadminingmuseum.co.uk

01

Whether you would like to admire classic cars, browse art or take in some jazz, Dumfries & Galloway is the perfect place to visit all year round. Discover a host of activities and entertainment throughout the towns and villages.

Did youknow?

You can sample around 150 whiskies at the

Drambusters Whisky Festival in Dumfries

on 30 November.

The best chance to spot some of the region’s fantastic wildlife is from the end of March when the Wild Spring festival starts with over 90 events about species including geese, badgers and the graceful red kites.

Explore Dumfries & Galloway’s stunning countryside on foot at one of four walking festivals – Newton Stewart and Langholm in May, Dalbeattie in August and Moffat in October.

Embrace the region’s tradition at a selection of Riding of the Marches events which are held in Lockerbie in June, Annan in July and Sanquhar in August.

Kirkcudbright is home to the popular Summer Festivities, a programme of events from May to August, which includes traditional Scottish entertainment and family events in venues throughout the town. The grand finale, The Tattoo, takes place in the shadow of the castle with special guests entertaining at the end of August.

At the end of July every year the innovative and family-friendly weekend event, the Wickerman Festival, takes place. Partly themed around the famous cult movie, the festival features a variety of music from established and new talent, with previous acts such as Texas and Scissor Sisters, on a farm near Kirkcudbright.

For books and literature events, enjoy the Wigtown Book Festival when 100 activities take place to celebrate the written word.

Key Map Reference (See map on pages 70-71) C3

Family

Food and Drink

Great Outdoors

Highland Games

Local Shows and Galas

Music, Arts and Culture

Sports

Don’t miss... Big Burns Supper in January.

Spring Fling in May.

Moffat Classic Car Rally in June.

Galloway Country Fair in August.

Flavour Fortnight in September.

Lockerbie Jazz Festival in September.

What’s on


Dumfries & Galloway

25 – 27Spring FlingStudios throughout Dumfries & Galloway www.spring-fling.co.uk

June1 – 9World Oceans WeekMain events will take placein Rockcliffe and Port William www.solwayfirthpartnership.co.uk

7 – 9Eden FestivalRaehills Meadows, St Anns, Moffat F3

www.edenfestival.co.uk

8Castle Douglas Food Town DayKing Street, Castle Douglas E4

www.cd-foodtown.org

9 – 15Guid NychburrisDumfries F4

www.guidnychburris.co.uk

13 – 16Kirkcudbright Jazz FestivalVarious venues in Kirkcudbright D5

www.kirkcudbrightjazzfestival.co.uk

28 – 29RSAC Scottish RallyDumfries Ice Bowl and surrounding area F3/4

www.scottishrally.co.uk

29 – 30Moffat Classic Car RallyMoffat Showground, Moffat F2

www.sre-scot.co.uk

29 – 26 AugKirkcudbright 2000Summer Art ExhibitionKirkcudbright Town Hall D5

www.artiststown.org.uk

30New Abbey Garden SafariStart from New Abbey Village Hall F4

July6Annan Riding of the MarchesAnnan G4

www.annan.org.uk/rom

21 – 27Castle Douglas Civic WeekCastle Douglas E4

www.castle-douglas.com

26Open Air Theatre: Romeo and JulietCastle Kennedy & Gardens,Rephad, near Stranraer A4

www.castlekennedygardens.co.uk

26 – 27The Wickerman FestivalEast Kirkcarswell Farm,Dundrennan, Kirkcudbright E5

www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk

27 – 28Raptor WeekendCounty Buildings, Wigtown C5

www.rspb.org.uk/crookofbaldoon

31Stranraer ShowLondon Road Playing Fields, Stranraer A4

www.stranraershow.co.uk

August1Stewartry ShowStewartry Rugby Club Ground,Greenlaw, Castle Douglas E4

www.stewartryshow.co.uk

2 – 5Tenth KirkcudbrightArt & Crafts TrailIn and around Kirkcudbright D5

www.artandcraftstrail.co.uk

3Dumfries Agricultural ShowThe Showfield, Park Farm, Dumfries F4

www.dumfriesshow.co.uk

7Wigtown ShowBladnoch Park, Wigtown C5

www.wigtownshow.org.uk

16 – 18Dalbeattie Walking FestivalVarious venues around Dalbeattie E4

www.dalbeattiematters.co.uk

17 – 18Galloway Country FairDrumlanrig Castle, Thornhill E2

www.gallowaycountryfair.co.uk

23 – 24Stranraer RNLI Park FestAgnew Park, Stranraer A4

www.lifeboatparkfest.co.uk

31 – 15 SepFlavour FortnightVarious across Dumfries & Galloway www.flavourfortnight.co.uk

September15 – 22 (regional stage tbc)The Tour of BritainDumfries & Galloway www.tourofbritain.co.uk

27 – 29Lockerbie Jazz FestivalVarious venues in Lockerbie including The Town Hall, Queens Hotel, Dryfesdale Hotel, Somerton Hotel, Lockerbie Academy G3

www.lockerbiejazz.com

27 – 29Moniaive Michaelmas Bluegrass FestivalMemorial Institute, Chapel St, Moniaive E3

www.moniaivebluegrass.co.uk

27 – 6 OctWigtown Book FestivalVarious venues in Wigtown. Boxoffice: County Buildings, Wigtown C5

www.wigtownbookfestival.com

October4 – 6Day of the RegionThroughout Dumfries & Galloway www.dayoftheregion.co.uk

5 – 6Dalbeattie Hardrock ChallengeRichorn Trailhead, Dalbeattie Forest E4

www.dalbeattiehardrockchallenge.org

26 – 27Feed the Red Kites Open DayKite Feeding Station,Bellymack Hill Farm, Laurieston D4

www.gallowaykitetrail.com

31Halloween Ghost walkMeet at Plainstanes,Midsteeple, Dumfries F4

www.mostlyghostly.org

November30Drambusters Whisky FestivalEasterbrook hall, The Crichton,Bankend Road, Dumfries F4

www.drambusters.com

Across the yearCountryside EventsThroughout Dumfries & Galloway www.dumgal.gov.uk/rangers

Farmers’ MarketsThroughout Dumfries & Galloway www.savourtheflavours.co.uk

Twice daily from October to AprilWild Swan FeedsWWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre F4

www.wwt.org.uk/caerlaverock

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Apr – SepMull of Galloway Guided WalksRSPB Visitor Centre, Mull of Galloway B6

www.rspb.org.uk/mullofgalloway

02

What’s on

This list highlights just a selection of events taking place in Dumfries & Galloway in 2013.The information contained in this publication is as supplied to VisitScotland and to the best of VisitScotland’s knowledge was correct at the time of going to press. VisitScotland can accept no responsibility for any errors. Events can be subject to change, we recommend you check details with a local VisitScotland Information Centre before travelling (see page 16).

01 Big Burns Supper, Dumfries.02 Balloons to celebrate The Day of the Region.


What’s on

125 By ANNAN (GRETNA GREEN 4 miles) G4

Westlands Activity CentreThe Broats Moss, Annan DG12 6RS T: 01461 800274 [email protected] www.westlands-activities.co.ukEnjoy an action-packed day out at this fabulous outdoor activity centre just outside Annan. Picturesque rural setting, heart-racing outdoor activities. Quad safari, go-karting, paintballing, assault course and clay pigeon shooting. 70-acre site.

9068

5

ooo Activity Provider

See also page 38

126 By BORGUE, KIRKCUDBRIGHT D5

Brighouse Bay Holiday ParkBorgue, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TS T: 01557 870267 [email protected] www.gillespie-leisure.co.ukEnjoy a great family day out with pony trekking, mini golf, 18-hole and 9-hole family golf, quad bikes, children’s play area with toddlers area, indoor pool, toddler’s pool, bowling green, boating pond, nature trails and a family bar and bistro.

7167

1

Coastal, farm and woodland walksFun for all the family

See also pages 38 and 40


WWT Caerlaverock Wetland CentreEastpark Farm, Caerlaverock DG1 4RS T: 01387 770200 F: 01387 770539 [email protected] 1,400 acre wild reserve on the Solway coast - wintering birds include thousands of Svalbard barnacle geese and Whooper swans - with summer wildflower meadows and ospreys hunting over the Solway.

6839

4

%

ooo Wildlife Experience


96 CAIRNSMORE OF FLEET, by NEWTON STEWART C4

Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature ReserveScottish Natural Heritage, Reserve Office, Dromore Farm, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2BP T: 01577 814435 [email protected] www.nnr-scotland.org.ukThis Reserve is a paradise for walkers. You’ll find peace and tranquillity here amongst heather moorland, peatlands and dramatic scenery. Reserve open all year.

5370

3

Fun for all the family

See also page 28

14 CASTLE KENNEDY, STRANRAER A4

Castle Kennedy & GardensCastle Kennedy, Stranraer DG9 8SJ T: 01581 400225 [email protected] www.castlekennedygardens.co.ukA perfect day out with events and activities for all the family to enjoy throughout the season, including open-air theatre, pond-dipping, bird hide, quizzes, family trails and guided walks. With 75 acres of beautiful landscaped lawns and terraces, there is always something new to experience in the gardens. Fun for all to enjoy.

1843

7

&,

oooo Garden

See also pages 20, 25, 46 & 61

161 COLLIN, by DUMFRIES (5 miles) F4

Drummuir Farm Ice CreamClarencefield Road, Collin, Dumfries DG1 4PX T: 01387 750599 [email protected] www.drummuirfarm.co.ukHome made ice cream, light lunches and home baking. Enjoy a freshly made coffee whilst the children play outside, or the wee ones have fun in our indoor toddler area. We are just 2 miles from the A75, with ample parking and situated in beautiful countryside.

2332

3E


See also page 46

73 CREETOWN C4

Creetown Gem Rock MuseumChain Road, Creetown, Wigtownshire DG8 7HJ T: 01671 820357 [email protected] www.gemrock.netA beautiful collection of the earth’s treasures. Fantastic crystals, gems and fossils. Interactive quizzes and rock activity bench. Discover the crystal cave, Olga the amazing cave bear fossil and professors study audio visual display. Natural giftshop, home baking in the prospectors pantry.

2125

4

%

oooo Museum

See also pages 25 & 64

74 DALTON F4

Dalton Pottery Art CaféMeikle Dyke, Dalton, Dumfriesshire DG11 1DU T: 01387 840236 [email protected] www.daltonpottery.comNo booking required at this family friendly attraction, and something for all ages to enjoy. The bright spacious indoor and outdoor areas are full of interesting art to inspire creativity in those wishing to paint a pot – everything from mugs to money boxes are ready to take home within an hour.

2212

3



130 DUMFRIES F3

Dalscone Farm FunEdinburgh Road, Dumfries DG1 1SE T: 01387 254445(shop) [email protected] is a family adventure farm and toyshop located in Dumfries. Attractions include a soft indoor play area with ball cannons, slides and a coffee shop. The outdoor farm park includes trampolines, pedal karts, bumper boats, crazy golf and a Farmari where you encounter llamas, donkeys, goats, pigs and more! Admission charges apply.

2211

2


See also pages 38, 51 and 62

Family Fun


118 DUMFRIES F4

DG OneHoods Loaning, Dumfries DG1 2HT T: 01387 243550 [email protected] Scotland’s premier leisure & entertainment venue … home to three fantastic pools including flumes and rapids. We offer family-friendly sessions 7 days a week, larger family cubicles with baby changing facilities and provide parent and child parking. Family entertainment shows also visit the facility (see our What’s On Guide).

2350

1

$

oooo Leisure Centre



AWARD WINNING 7stanes7stanes Community Interest Company T: 01387 702228 [email protected] one of UK’s most popular mountain biking destinations you can choose from Glentrool, Kirroughtree, Dalbeattie, Mabie and Ae. The 7stanes caters for families who wish to cycle off road, for mountain bikers who wish to test their skills, or for those who are looking for an adrenaline rush. Admission free, modest car park charge applies. Open all year round.

7472

8


See also page 38


Museums and Galleries in Dumfries and Gallowayc/o Dumfries Museum, The Observatory, Rotchell Road, Dumfries DG2 7SW T: 01387 253374 [email protected] www.dumgal.gov.uk/artsandmuseumsDiscover the human and natural history of the region and admire the best in traditional and contemporary arts and crafts at twelve museums and galleries across Dumfries and Galloway, from Annan in the east to Stranraer in the west, and from Sanquhar in the north to Kirkcudbright in the south.

5980

2


See also page 60

58 EASTRIGGS, by ANNAN G4

Devil’s Porridge ExhibitionDaleside, Butterdales Road, Eastriggs T: 01461 40460 [email protected] www.devilsporridge.co.ukThe amazing story of the 30,000 women and men who came to work in the ‘greatest munitions factory on earth’. In WW1, the townships of Eastriggs and Gretna were built to end the shortage of shells. As seen on BBC Coast.

5876

7

ooo Museum



Cream o’ GallowayRainton, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2DR T: 01557 815222 [email protected] www.creamogalloway.co.ukSo much to do whatever the weather! Burn off steam on karts and bikes then indulge in our luxury ice cream. Soak up fabulous scenery and explore nature trails, spotting wildlife in woodland and ponds. Return for a delicious lunch in our tearoom. Contact us for details of seasonal events.

2120

2

©

events, tractor & trailer tours


See also pages 27, 29, 38, 46 & 73

132 By GATEHOUSE OF FLEET D5

Laggan Outdoor Activity CentreGatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway DG7 2ES T: 01557 840217 [email protected] www.lagganoutdoor.co.ukLaggan Outdoor Activity centre offer first class activities for all the family. Choose from Archery, The UK’s longest Zip wire, Segway Adventures & Clay Shooting or Grass Sledging, Zorbing, Mountain Boarding and Reverse Steer Jeep driving.

8601

6

ooo Activity Provider


162 KIRKCUDBRIGHT (3 miles) D5

Tongland Family Golf CentreTongland, Kirkcudbright DG6 4NE T: 01556 680226 [email protected] www.tonglandgolf.co.ukA Family Golf Centre offering the opportunity for beginners and established golfers to have fun and improve their game. With our par 3 course, covered driving range, grass tees and putting areas there is something for everyone. Tuition, clubs and trolly hire available. Small pro shop and café on site.

4919

4

&

ooo Activity Centre

See also page 41

84 LEADHILLS E2

Leadhills & Wanlockhead RailwayThe Station, Leadhills, Biggar T: 01555 662963 [email protected] www.leadhillsrailway.co.ukRide on a narrow gauge railway. Lots of family fun for railway enthusiasts and children. Britains highest adhesion railway running between Leadhills and Glengonnar Pass. See website for details of monthly special events.

3511

2

,

oo Visitor Attraction

See also page 27

134 LOCH KEN, CASTLE DOUGLAS D4

Galloway Activity CentreParton, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas DG7 3NQ T: 01644 420626 [email protected] www.lochken.co.ukWe offer a range of instructor led activities, run in a fun and safe environment. Choose from sailing/kayaking/ windsurfing/archery/mountain biking/climbing tower/zip wire/leap of faith/fishing and outdoor laser quest. Create your own bespoke action packed day out. We welcome families, individuals and groups alike and are open all year. NEW FOR 2013: Iceberg/inflatable water park

2716

6

&



Great days out – Family Fun


86 MABIE, by DUMFRIES F4

Mabie Farm ParkBurnside Farm, Mabie, Dumfries DG2 8EZ T: 01387 259666 www.mabiefarmpark.co.uk A fun day out for all the family come rain, come shine. Animals, quad bikes, grass sledging, astroslide, paddle boat, indoor play area, party rooms and much more, along with a tearoom serving tasty snacks and ice cream. For opening times and admission prices, see website.

1697

2

%


See also page 27

138 PARTON D4

Loch Ken Water Ski and Wakeboard SchoolLoch Ken Marina, Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NF T: 01644 470333 [email protected] www.skilochken.co.ukWhy not try something new and exciting? All ages welcome, come and learn to ski or wakeboard with expert tuition, or just play around on the Ringo or Banana Boat. All abilities catered for. Equipment provided. It’s a great family day out!

3585

0

and wakeboard site


See also page 39

89 RINGFORD D4

Barstobrick Visitor CentreFellend, Ringford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AT T: 01557 820112 [email protected] www.barstobrick.co.ukFamily games and play area, pony trekking, fishing, walking, cycling, farm tours, heritage and wildlife, Red Kite trail, Neilson’s monument, farm shop, Neilson’s coffee shop.

7731

6


See also pages 28, 30, 39, 48 & 51

139 RINGFORD D4

Lochill Equestrian and Trekking CentreLochhill Farm, Ringford, Castle Douglas DG7 2AR T: 01557 820225 [email protected] www.lochhill.netRegistered BHS trekking and riding school set in the heart of the Galloway countryside. Enjoy hacks for the experienced rider or enjoyable treks for the beginner and novice in fabulous scenery. Outdoor manege with panoramic views. Also available private and group lessons, Loan a Pony, livery and carriage rides.

7230

1


See also page 39

12 By THORNHILL E2

Drumlanrig Castle and Country EstateThornhill, Dumfries & Galloway DG3 4AQ T: 01848 331555 [email protected] www.drumlanrig.comDrumlanrig Castle and Country Estate offers a wide range of activities for all the family including mountain biking, walking, Landrover tours, an adventure playground, gardens, the Scottish Cycle Museum and a varied events programme.

2329

4

ß&

ooooo Castle

See also pages 20, 21, 28, 30, 40 & 64

92 WHITHORN C5

The Whithorn Story45-47 George Street, Whithorn DG8 8NS T: 01988 500508 [email protected] www.whithorn.comWhithorn is the cradle of Christianity in Scotland and is associated with Scotland’s first saint, Ninian. Long remembered by tradition, this settlement has been revealed by archaeological excavation. The centre tells the story of Whithorn through the ages using an audiovisual show and exhibitions including artefacts and reconstruction drawings.

4363

5

ß



Family cycling at Dalbeattie 7stanes.

Family Fun



Get CloserOpen February - November:

10am-5pm (Summer 6pm)December - January: Closed

Our animals include: Primates, Otters, Wild Cats,

Owls and many more endangered species!

Lochfergus Plantation, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries and Galloway DG6 4XXTel/Fax: 01557 331645

www.gallowaywildlife.org.ukGalloway Wildlife Conservation Trust – reg. charity no. SC042826


A garden for all to enjoy

Open: 10am to 5pmDaily: April – October, Weekends February – March

Castle Kennedy Gardens, Castle Kennedy, Stranraer DG9 8SJ3 miles east of Stranraer on the A75

For more information about the Gardens and the Annual Programme of Events: 01581 400225/01776 702024

[email protected] www.castlekennedygardens.co.uk

HISTORY • GARDENS • WILDLIFE • FALCONRY • CHAMPION TREES

TEAROOM • GIFT SHOP • FAMILY ACTIVITIES • GUIDED WALKS

HISTORY • GARDENS • WILDLIFE • BIRD HIDE • CHAMPION TREES

TEAROOM • GIFT SHOP • FAMILY ACTIVITIES • GUIDED WALKS




We have fantastic displays of gems, crystals, minerals and fossils, a collection of unique and breathtaking creations from all over the world. Enter the Professors Study to relax or research, savour our homebaking in the new Pantry before watching

the audio visual presentation “The Fire in the Stones”.

Then experience the amazing Crystal Cave. Finally, to

complete your day visit our unique gift shop. It truly is

an experience you’ll treasure forever!

PROSPECTORS PANTRYVISIT OUR FANTASTIC TEAROOM. SAVOUR THE FLAVOURS OF OUR RENOWNED BAKING, QUALITY TEAS & COFFEES

DISPLAYS • PROFESSOR’S STUDY THE AMAZING CRYSTAL CAVE • AUDIO VISUALS

GEM CUTTING WORKSHOP • GIFT SHOP

Opening Times1st Feb – 31st Mar, Daily 10am – 4pm, 1st Apr – 30th Sep, Daily 9.30am – 5.30pm

1st Oct – 22nd Dec, Daily 10am – 4pm. Last admittance half an hour before closing time.

The Gem Rock Museum, Chain Road, Creetown, Dumfries & Galloway DG8 7HJ ScotlandTel: 01671 820 357 or visit our website at www.gemrock.net

AN EXPERIENCE YOU’LL TREASURE FOREVER

AN EXPERIENCE YOU’LL TREASURE FOREVER

NATURALLY INSPIRING





A warm welcome awaits you at Thistle ‘B’ Scrumptious, a multi award-winning deli specialising in selling, promoting and platforming local and Scottish produce. We are based in the region’s food town, Castle Douglas, and also have a scrumptious selection of local produce in our mouth-watering takeaway lunches. A unique gift range and bespoke hampers are also available all year round.

207 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DT T: 01556 504006www.thistlebscrumptious.co.uk

Join us in the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 as we celebrate Scotland’s natural heritage. Plan your trip and experience it for yourself! www.visitscotland.com/natural

Connect with us...for competitions, insider tips, & more!




The Dumfries & Galloway Explorer Pass is the perfect way to unlock thousands of years of history with just one ticket. For only £19.50 you can visit all of Historic Scotland’s attractions in Dumfries & Galloway, including

the wonderful Caerlaverock Castle and New Abbey Corn Mill, at your leisure. It’s available from any Historic Scotland attraction in Dumfries & Galloway or by phoning 0131 668 8831 or visit historic-scotland.gov.uk/explorer

The key to Dumfries & Galloway’s history is just £19.50


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Dumfries & Galloway area map

An A-Z quick reference to all the listings in this guide3 Lochs Holiday Park & Estate 39

7stanes Mountain Bike Trails 38, 57

Abbey Cottage Coffees and Crafts 47

Admirable Antiques 50

Ae Forest 38

Annan Museum 23

Applegarthtown Wildlife Sanctuary 29

A’ The Airts 50

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental 53

Balcary Bay Country House Hotel 48, 60

Barend Riding Centre 40

Barracuda Club, Cairndale Hotel & Leisure Club 41

Barstobrick Visitor Centre 28, 30, 39, 51, 58

Beaches 31

Bladnoch Distillery & Visitor Centre 25

Blackaddie House Hotel 49

Border Air Tours 53

Brasserie 59 48

Brighouse Bay, Golf and Leisure Club 40

Brighouse Bay, Holiday Park 56

Brighouse Bay, Trekking Centre 38

Broughton House & Garden 20, 27

Bruce’s Stone 22

Buccleuch Centre, The 33

Burnswark 22

Caerlaverock Castle 22

Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve 28

Cairn Holy 21

Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve 28, 56

Cally Woods 40

Campbell’s Restaurant 49

Cardoness Castle 22

Carlingwark Loch 28

Casa Mia 48

Castle Douglas Art Gallery 19

Castle Douglas Cycle Centre 38

Castle Douglas Food Town 49

Castle Douglas Gem Shop 51

Castle Douglas Swimming Pool & Fitness Suite 41

Castle Kennedy & Gardens 20, 25, 29, 46, 56, 61

Castle Loch Local Nature Reserve 29

Castle of St John 20

Catstrand, The 33

Cinnamon 2007 Ltd 47

Clan Armstrong Trust Museum 24

Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre 40

Claymoddie Garden & Galloway Plants 21

Clience Studio 19

Clog and Shoe Workshop, The 25

Cocoa Bean Company, The 27

Colvend Golf Club 40

Courtyard Bistro 48

Cream o’ Galloway 27, 29, 38, 46, 57, 73

Creetown Gem Rock Museum 25, 56, 64

Creetown Heritage Museum 23, 56

Crook of Baldoon (RSPB Scotland) 30

Cruck Cottage 22

Dalbeattie Forest 38

Dalscone Farm Fun 38, 51, 56, 62

Dalton Pottery Art Café 26, 56, 61

Devil’s Porridge Exhibition 24, 26, 57

DG One 33, 42, 57

Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate 20, 21, 28, 30, 40, 58, 64

Drummuir Farm Ice Cream 46, 56

Dryfesdale Lodge Visitors’ Centre 27

Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum 24

Dumfries & Galloway Libraries 53

Dumfries & Galloway Museums 57, 60

Dumfries & County Golf Club 40

Dumfries Ghost Walk 26

Dumfries Ice Bowl 42

Dumfries Museum 24

Dumfries Museum Camera Obscura 24

Dumfries VisitScotland Information Centre 26, 50

Dundrennan Abbey 21

Dunskey Castle 20

Dunskey Gardens and Maze 21

Durisdeer Church 22

Elmlea Plants 21

Ellisland Farm 20

Elizabeth MacGregor’s Nursery at Ellenbank 20

Ewart Public Library 53

Farmer’s Den, The 22

Forrest Estate Experiences 40

Fun Pool & Fitness Suite, The 42

Gallie Craig Coffee House 47

Galloway Activity Centre 39, 47, 57

Galloway Arms Hotel 48

Galloway Forest Park 63

Galloway Holidays 38

Galloway House Gardens 20

Galloway Kite Trail 29

Galloway Lodge Preserves 47

Galloway Smokehouse 50

Galloway Wildlife Conservation Park 27, 60

Garden Wise Plant & Garden Centre 46, 51, 61

Gatehouse of Fleet Golf Club 41

Gilnockie Tower 21

Glenluce Abbey 22

Glentrool Visitor Centre 40

Glenwhan Gardens 20

Gracefield Arts Centre 19

Green Frog, The 39

Gretna Gateway Outlet Village 51, 67

Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop 27, 64

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve 29

Hetland Garden Centre 26, 51, 59

Hidden Treasures Museum of Lead Mining 28

Historic Scotland Explorer Pass 69

Jacquies Beauty 53

James Kirk & Sons 51, 62

John Paul Jones Museum 23, 67

Kagyu Samye Ling Tibetan Buddhist Monastery 27

Ken-Dee Marshes (RSPB Scotland) 29

Kilnford Barns Farm Shop 48

King Robert the Bruce Plaque 21

Kings 46

Kirkconnell Flow National Nature Reserve 29

Kirkcudbright Harbour Cottage Gallery 19

Kirkcudbright Marina 39

Kirkcudbright Swimming Pool 42

Kirkdale Sawmill 25

Kirroughtree Visitor Centre 40

Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre 38, 57, 68

Laird’s Inn, The 48

Langholm Golf Club 41

Leadhills & Wanlockhead Railway, The 27, 57

Leeming and Paterson Photography 28

Lincluden Collegiate Church 21

Loch Arthur Creamery, Farm Shop & Café 49

Lochhill Equestrian & Trekking Centre 39, 58

Loch Ken 30

Loch Ken Water Ski and Wakeboard School 39, 58

Loch Ryan 30

Lockerbie Golf Club 41

Logan Botanic Garden 28, 62

Lonsdale Cinema 25

Lorimer Park Athletics Track & Play Area 42

Mabie Farm Park 27, 58

Mabie Forest 38

MacDiarmid Memorial 19

MacLellan’s Castle 22

Marrbury Smokehouse at Carsluith Castle 25, 46

McGill Duncan Gallery 50

Merrick Leisure Centre 42

Mersehead RSPB Nature Reserve 30

Mid Steeple, The 21

Mill on the Fleet 27

Moffat and District Community Initiative 39

Moffat & District Community Nature Reserve 29

Moffatasia 42

Motte of Urr 22

Mull of Galloway Experience 27

Neilson’s Coffee Shop @ Barstobrick 48

New Abbey Corn Mill 22

New Galloway Golf Club 41

Newtonairds Lodge Hostas & Garden 20

Newton Stewart Museum 24

Old Bridge House 24

Park House Venue, Cairndale Hotel & Leisure Club 33

Parks & Play Areas 42

Portpatrick (Dunskey & Dinvin) Golf Club 41

Powfoot Golf Club 41

Pumpernickel 46

Queens Way Tourist Route 40

Red Deer Range 30, 40

Robert Burns Centre 19

Robert Burns House 19

Robert the Bruce Commemoration Trust, The 21

Rockcliffe 29

RSPB 66

RSPB Scotland (Mull of Galloway Experience) 29

Ruthwell Cross, The 22

Ryan Centre 42

Ryan Centre Theatre 33

Sanquhar – The Historic Walk 22

Sanquhar Church 22

Sanquhar Tolbooth Museum 25

Savings Banks Museum 24

School House, The 49

Scot’s Dyke 21

Selkirk Arms 49

Silver Flowe National Nature Reserve 30

Solway MotorHome Hire 53

Southerness Golf Club 41

Sports/Outdoor Centres 41, 42

St Medan Golf Club 41

St Ninian’s Cave 22

Stena Line Ltd 65

Stewartry Museum 24

Stir-it 48

Strands Gallery Shop 50

Stranraer Museum 25

Striding Arches 19

Sulwath Brewery 25

Sweetheart Abbey 22

Tarff Valley Ltd 46, 51

T.B. Watson Ltd 49, 51, 67

Thistle ‘B’ Scrumptious 49, 68

Thomas Carlyle’s Birthplace 21

Threave Castle 21

Threave Garden, House & Estate 20, back page

Threave Wildfowl Reserve 29

Tolbooth Art Centre 24

Tongland Family Golf Centre 41, 57

Toffee Shop, The 49

Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery 23

Twelve Apostles 21

Venniehill 29

Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant, The 49

Westlands Activity Centre 38, 56

Whithorn Priory & Museum 22

Whithorn Story, The 28, 58, 62

Wild Goat Park 30, 40

Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve 30

Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve Visitor Room 28

Wigtown Book Festival 28

Wigtown Book Town 67

Wigtown Martyrs’ Monument 22

Wigtown Osprey Project 30

Wood of Cree (RSPB Scotland) 30

WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre 25, 28, 56


Index

Documents

Explore: Dumfries & Galloway