Instead of dashing ever-northwards, taking a left (from the south) reveals a very rewarding area - characterful and colourful towns, hills, forests and very attractive landscapes - in places surprisingly rugged. Dumfries & Galloway is full of surprises.
Accommodation
Dumfries and Galloway has a great choice of accommodation, right here in Scotland’s mild South-West. Choose your accommodation type here.
Castles, gardens, Mary Queen of Scots connections, Covenanters, artists, tame fish and the founder of the American Navy – plenty of themes to follow in Dumfries and Galloway.
Miles of forest trails and hills for walks, mountain biking, pony trekking, cycling on quiet rural roads and tracks, golf galore, plus a great angling choice – lots of activity options in Dumfries and Galloway.
An excellent range of habitats in Dumfries and Galloway, from tidal mudflats to broad-leaved river valley woodland, high moors and lush farmland.
Great Gardens
The mild airs of Dumfries and Galloway take the edge off the winter frost - and provide the conditions for many tender species and some amazing gardens.
Born in a humble cottage on the coast south of Dumfries, John Paul Jones went to sea at the age of 13 and rose to become a captain in the American Navy. In 1778, during the War of Independence, he raided Whitehaven and Kirkcudbright. Famous as the ‘Father of the American Navy’, he later became an admiral in the Russian Navy. His birthplace is furnished in the 1700’s style.
Fish Larder
The unique Logan Fish Pond, near Port Logan, was created from a natural rock formation and has been used as a fish larder since 1800. In recent times its has had further fishy displays added for the enjoyment of visitors.