Dumfries and Galloway Guide

Dumfries and Galloway is in the southern most point in Scotland on the west coast by the Irish Sea and bordering with England. This region offers unspoiled landscapes, long shores and rich parklands, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Galloway Forest Park is 300 square miles of woods, moors and lochs, holding many opportunities to see wildlife such as deer and birds of prey. There are few people that live in this forest but there are many well marked trails which attract mountain bikers and hikers. Newton Stewart and New Galloway are ideal bases for exploring the park.

On the shores of the Solway coast, known as the Rhinns of Galloway, it is possible to see the coast of Ireland and Isle of Man on a clear day. Take a walk along the coastline and discover the hidden coves which were used by whisky smugglers during the 18th century. From the port of Stranraer you can catch the ferry to Northern Ireland. On the opposite side of the coast is the seaside resort of Portpatrick. At either end of the peninsula are two lighthouses; one stands above Corsewall Point and is now home to a luxury hotel, the other stands on the Mull of Galloway, a windswept headland at the southwest tip of Scotland, which is home to a vast array of nesting seabirds.

Dumfries is the biggest city in southern Scotland and another historic stronghold of the country. Not always in the power of the Scottish, the town of Dumfries has changed hands many times with the English during the feudal times (12th to 15th centuries). In Greyfriars Church it was the place where Robert the Bruce stabbed and murdered his rival, John III, to take the throne. It was in this town too where the famous poet Robert Burns last lived; his house is still standing. Visit The Robert Burns Centre and see why he loved this region and the country of Scotland so dearly.

For more details download one of the many Dumfries and Galloway Tourism Pamphlets