Attractions around Dumfries & Galloway
The large town of Dumfries with its many tourist attractions is only a short drive from Fernhill Hotel. Much of the town’s tourism focuses on Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard, who lived in Dumfries.
Discover Scotland’s nature and wildlife at Kirkcudbright Wildlife Park and Caerlaverock Nature Reserve.
Garden lovers should head to Castle Kennedy Gardens for their wonderful collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. Or have a wander around Castle Douglas, Kircudbright and Wigtown famous for food, art and books.
Castle Douglas Food Town
Castle Douglas is a busy and bustling market town not far from Newton Stewart. With approximately fifty local businesses involved in either producing or selling food and drink, it is easy to see why Castle Douglas has been designated a Food Town. The vibrancy and appeal of the town lies largely in the draw of the shops, cafés and restaurants.
Kirkcudbright Art Town
Kirkcudbright enjoys a sheltered position in the estuary of the River Dee on the north Solway shore. Kirkcudbright has always been supported by a busy fishing trade. Behind the harbour the streets have housed generations of creative artists, a tradition maintained today by a flourishing colony of painters and craftworkers. This has led to it being called "The Artists' Town".
Other well known features of the town are the pastel coloured houses and wide streets, the wide selection of mainly family owned shops where almost everything can be got, and the free parking all over town.
Throughout the year a variety of entertainment is provided by Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities. This ranges from Scottish nights to classic car rallies, from historic walks to a medieval fayre. There is also an Annual Jazz Festival and a spectacular Tattoo is held every August. And a Summer Art Exhibition in the town hall every July and August.
Wigtown Book Town
Wigtown was officially designated as Scotland's National Book Town in 1998 and is now home to over 20 book-related businesses. A book lovers haven – and with over quarter of a million books to choose from, old and new … it is impossible to escape empty-handed.
With easy access and easy parking in the town’s wide streets and market square, shopping is a pleasure in Wigtown. It’s an easy stroll round bookshops, gift shops, cafes and inns.
There’s lots to do in Wigtown but the main event of the year is the Wigtown Book Festival during September. Enjoy 10 days of author events, theatre, film, music and children’s activities.
