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Dumfries & Galloway

Attractions - General

Dumfries & Galloway

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Attractions - General

Dumfries & Galloway - Tourist Attractions, Amusements,
Theme Parks, Walks, Viewpoints, Zoos, etc

This section covers general Tourist Attractions such as Amusements Parks, Boat Trips, Theme Parks, Specialist Shops, Guided Walks, Country Parks,  Viewpoints, Zoos etc.

Not all the attractions in an area are listed.
If you know of an activity provider who does not yet have an entry, please submit the information
here.
 

 

Attractions

General

THE DEVIL'S PORRIDGE EXHIBITION

The Daleside, Buttersdale Road, Eastriggs, Dumfries & Galloway, DG12 6TQ
Tel: 01461 700021     Fax: 01461 700021
E-mail: devils-porridge@tiscali.co.uk
Web: www.devilsporridge.co.uk

With the tide of the First World War turning in Germany's favour it was clear Britain and her allies did not have enough ammunition and so in 1915 the greatest cordite factory on earth was built in Gretna.

30,000 people were employed in the factory which stretched 9 miles from Dornock to Longtown and was 2 miles wide.

 

 
The output of the HM Factory Gretna was more than all other munitions factories in Britain combined and played a key role in the Allies' victory. The Devil's Porridge Exhibition tells the story of this remarkable venture and the secret cities which were created to accommodate its workers.

 

Also covered in the exhibition is Quintinshill; the worst railway disaster in British history, as well as the stories of children evacuated to the area during World War Two.

THE WHITHORN STORY

45-47 George Street, Whithorn, Newton Stewart, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 8NS
Tel: 01988 500508
E-mail: butterworth@whithorn1@freeserve.co.uk
Web: www.whithorn.com

New displays use models and fascinating objects revealed by archaeology to tell the story of the town, church and pilgrimage centre at Whithorn, the home of Ninian, Scotland's first saint.

THE CLOG AND SHOE WORKSHOP

The Old School, Balmaclellan, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway, DG7 3QE
Tel: 01644 420465       Fax: 01644 420777
E-mail: footwear@clogandshoe.co.uk
Web: www.clogandshoe.co.uk

Come and see the Galloway tradition of clog making at the Clog and Shoe Workshop. Six styles of clogs and 12 styles of regular footwear can be individually made, in a wide range of colours, for YOUR feet from outlines and measurements OR you can choose from stock.

Prices: footwear from £68.00, leather goods from 25p. Visitors can see ongoing work. Buses and coaches only by arrangement. For further information please visit our website.

DRYFESDALE LODGE
VISITORS' CENTRE TRUST

Dumfries Road, Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 1HZ
Tel: 01576 205962
Charity no: SC 032947
Web: www.dryfesdalelodge.org.uk

There are two exhibition rooms in the Lodge and also the Dryfesdale Room that is used as a quiet room for visitors to reflect. A permanent exhibition room displays ten history panels depicting Lockerbie's unique past stretching from its pre-historic origins to 1988's terrorist attack and beyond.

Some of the furnishings were donated by the authorities and came from the relatives room at Kamp van Zeist in the Netherlands where the two Libyans accused of the bombing of Pam Am flight 103 were tried. Located within the cemetery grounds, just a short walk away, is the Lockerbie Memorial Garden of Remembrance. Dryfesdale Lodge Visitors' Centre is not just a memorial to the disaster but is also a tribute to the community of Lockerbie and in its short life has already had many hundreds of visitors from home and abroad.

MILL ON THE FLEET

High Street, Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway, DG7 2HS
Tel: 01557 814099       Fax: 01557 814099
E-mail: millonthefleet@btopenworld.com

The Mill on the Fleet was built in 1785 as a cotton spinning and weaving mill by the Birtwhistle family of Yorkshire and its machinery was driven by the water wheel still to be seen on the gable-end of the mill. Today it is an interesting and stimulating Visitor Centre in this beautiful part of South West Scotland.

The displays look at the River Fleet as it travels down the Fleet valley, a designated National Scenic Area, and the wildlife that can be seen from the mill windows overlooking the river. The mill lade system is explained in a working model and the town of Gatehouse itself can be seen as it would have looked in 1800 in miniature. The newly restored Faed Gallery has a full programme of changing exhibitions by artists and craftmakers from Dumfries and Galloway as well as other parts of Scotland.

GALLOWAY FALCONRY

Tinwald Parks Farm, Tinwald, Dumfries, DG1 4PN
Tel: 0870 850 0879
E-mail: info@gallowayfalconry.co.uk
Web: www.gallowayfalconry.co.uk

Enjoy the thrills of birds of prey with courses and falconry experiences from one hour to five days. We are the only qualified falconry team in the South West of Scotland, all of our staff have currently received or working toward the new Lantra award in falconry.

We offer displays and demonstrations whether one bird or several, an informal chat or a grand scale display, we can do country shows, hotels or holiday parks, local galas and fetes. We also offer professional courses and a complete package for weddings which can include a tawny owl or barn owl fly down the aisle to deliver the wedding rings to the bride and groom.

GARROCH GLEN ENVIRONMENTAL TOURS

Old Garroch, St John's Town of Dalry, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, DG7 3XR
Tel: 01644 430349     Fax: 01644 430095
E-mail: jnrc@ukonline.co.uk
Web: www.garrochglen.com/environmental_tours.htm

Garroch Glen is a beautiful area of Upland Moors and wooded valley set in the heart of the Galloway Hills just sixty miles from the English border.

 

At Garroch Glen there is a vast range of activities to enjoy such as environmental tours, hill walking, guided horse and pony trekking, horse carriage rides, fishing and shooting.

 

  

We have red deer, roe deer, wild goats, game, birds of prey, red squirrels, badgers, adders, woodland trout and a symphony of frogs. The environmental tours offer private parties unique access to a vast and diverse landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see.

 

Along the way your guide will give you a fascinating insight into the "life of Glen". You can bird watch in remote moorlands where golden eagles and red kites soar overhead, or listen to the dawn chorus and watch the countryside awake. The present is firmly rooted in the past at Garroch Glen our farm dates back to the 16th Century and the battle routes of Robert the Bruce cross the estate. There is also horse riding, fishing, mountain biking, bird watching and fishing.

Moffat Walking Festival

Contact: Moffat Initiative, 1 Ladyknowe, Moffat, DG10 9DY
Tel: 01683 220227    Fax: 01683 220227
E-mail: info@visitmoffat.co.uk
Web: www.visitmoffat.co.uk

Whether rain or shine, enthusiastic walkers turn up in force for the Moffat Walking Festival, waterproofed and determined. Many walkers have such a good time that they return every year. The 5th Moffat Walking Festival is taking place amongst the stunning Moffat scenery on 7th - 9th October 2005. Walks for all levels from gentle to strenuous and evening entertainments.


Kirkcudbright River Trips

Kirkcudbright Marina, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries and Galloway, DG6 4HR
Tel: 01557 331684
E-mail: grymckie@aol.com

Take a trip on the "Lovely Nellie" a specially designed river trip vessel equipped with all necessary safety equipment and take in views of the local landscape and the bay. Go up the river and enjoy a varied selection of wildlife. River trips run daily - 7 days per week (times vary according to tides) throughout Spring and Summer. Group bookings and private charter can be arranged.


The World Famous Old Blacksmiths Shop Centre

Gretna Green, Dumfries & Galloway, DG16 5EA
Tel: 01461 338441 / 01461 338224    Fax: 01461 338442
E-mail: info@gretnagreen.com
Web: www.gretnagreen.com

Curious travellers have journeyed to Gretna Green's Old Blacksmith Shop for over 150 years. They have followed in the footsteps of the countless thousands of runaway couples who, since 1754, have raced to Gretna Green to marry under Scottish law. Nowadays historical intrigue is married with excellent shopping and great places to eat. The shopping features expand across 30,000 square feet and include the finest in UK manufacturing including Pringle and Lyle & Scott knitwear, Johnston's of Elgin Cashmere, St Andrews Old Course range of gifts, Waterford and Stuart Crystal and the Lochcarron range of tartans. Enjoy the traditional Scottish fayre within the Old Smithy Restaurant. Choose from a selection of lighter meals to 3 courses, home-cooked and served all day long. The Story of Gretna Green is revealed when you enter the Blacksmith's Cottage which houses an award winning multi lingual exhibition. Audio and audio-visual displays bring to life the drama of Gretna Green runaway marriages. Children's Play park, Native Breeds Park, Arts & Crafts Centre and Sculpture Garden complete your visit.


Marrbury Smokehouse

Bargrennan, Nr Glentrool, Newton Stewart, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 6RW
Tel: 01671 840241    Fax: 01671 840241
E-mail: mail@visitmarrbury.co.uk
Web: www.visitmarrbury.co.uk

Traditional Scottish Smokehouse producing a wide range of luxury gourmet smoked foods. Smokehouse, Shop and 'The Orangerie at Marrbury' Restaurant. A warm welcome is extended to all by Master Craftsmen Proprietors Ruby and Vincent Marr. The Marr family have been "Net and Cobble" Salmon Fishermen on the local River Cree, and to this day, still use the same traditional methods as their forefathers have done for generations before them. Marrbury Smokehouse is set in a beautiful rural location nearby to the Glentrool Forest Park. Visitors to the Smokehouse, can dine in the 'The Orangerie at Marrbury', where the panoramic views of the surrounding Galloway Hills are quite spectacular. Restaurant patrons, may often find they are given the opportunity to "tour the Smokehouse" to see how the food they are eating, has actually been produced.
The Shop features an open-plan kitchen, where Chef/Proprietor Ruby Marr is always at work and is delighted to share tips and give cookery advice for the Smokehouse produce. Friendly chat and lots of recipes are always on offer. A haven for food lovers, Marrbury Smokehouse is a visit not to be missed.


Dumfries & Galloway Family History Research Centre

9 Glasgow Street, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG2 9AF
Tel: 01387 248093
E-mail: www.dgfhs.org.uk

The Family History Society welcomes visitors to its centre. Library, fiches, family trees. Local/family history books/maps for sale. Limited research available on request for nominal fee. Worldwide membership.


Bladnoch Distillery Visitor Centre

Bladnoch, Wigtown, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 9AB
Tel: 01988 402605
E-mail: raymond@bladnoch.co.uk
Web: www.bladnoch.co.uk

Situated on the banks of the River Bladnoch, the Distillery and Visitors Centre has one of the best Gift Shops in the are with examples of local crafts, good quality Scottish woollen goods and all at attractive prices. Dating from 1817, the buildings are of fine stone and slate and reflect the beauty and history of their setting. Wooden wash-backs and vast gleaming copper stills. Along the riverside walk is the ancient oak woodland of Cotland Wood, home of the broad leafed Helleborine, a rare orchid used as the Bladnoch motif.


Galloway Hydros Visitor Centre

Tongland Power Station, Tongland, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway, DG6 4LT
Tel: 01557 330114
E-mail: visit.galloway@scottishpower.com

The tour itself takes you into the heart of the power station to the control room where the whole process is monitored and to the turbine hall where the machines resonate with newly created power. You will learn about the operation of the power station and of the other stations in the Galloway Hydros, how they contribute to the national electricity grid system and of Scottish Power's commitment to the Galloway Hydros to the year 2050 and beyond. A short journey away is the impressive Tongland Dam and Reservoir, the power source. Here, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a migrating salmon as it makes its way up our fish ladder. Picnic area, public toilets, small shop and cafe available to visitors.


Mull of Galloway Visitor Centre

Mull of Galloway RSPB Reserve, Nr Drummore, Stranraer, Dumfries & Galloway, DG9 9DH
Tel: 01776 830682    Fax: 01776 830682
E-mail: southrhins@talk21.com
Web: www.mull-of-galloway.co.uk

The Centre houses impressive audio and visual displays including a DVD of the local scenery and wildlife. Listen to the sounds of the birds which are common in the area, including the kittiwake, shag, gannet and puffin. There is also extensive information on the history and geology of the Mull of Galloway. Visitors should take the opportunity to walk around the Reserve and enjoy its peace and tranquillity and experience the feeling of being at one with nature.


Dalton Pottery

Meikle Dyke , Dalton Nr Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 1DU
Tel: 01387 840236    Fax: 01387 840236
E-mail: dalton.pottery1@btopenworld.com
Web: www.daltonpottery.co.uk

For all ages, paint a pot to take home in half an hour. Children's play park, pottery and gift shop. Cafe serving home baking, lunches etc. Birthday parties, groups welcome.


New Abbey Cornmill

New Abbey, Dumfries, DG2 8BX
Tel: 01387 850260
E-mail: hs.explorer@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Web: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

A carefully renovated water-powered mill, in working order, and demonstrated regularly to visitors in the summer months. A video, The Millers Tale, is on show inside the mill. Mill demonstration 12.00 noon and 3.00 pm in summer. The waterwheel and grounds are accessible for visitors with physical disabilities. Access to the corn mill is difficult for wheelchair users and access to the upper floors is not possible. Parking: 0.25 miles away at Sweetheart Abbey. Heavy traffic prevents setting down nearer the property.


King Robert The Bruce's Cave

Cove Estate, Kirkpatrick Fleming, Nr Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 3AT
Tel: 014618 800285
E-mail: enq@rbrucescave.com
Web: www.brucescave.co.uk

Robert The Bruce, born at Lochmaben Castle in 1274, was Knight and Overlord of Annandale and was crowned King of Scots in 1306. In the winter of 1307 after suffering defeat, King Robert went into hiding in the cave. While evading capture by Edward I, he spent three months living a solitary existence at a time when the wars of Independence were at their bleakest for the Scots.


Buckland Plants

The School, Whinnieliggate, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway, DG6 4XP
Tel: 01557 331323    Fax: 01557 331323
E-mail: info@buckplants.co.uk
Web: www.bucklandplants.co.uk

We are a small, established family run nursery specialising in choice and unusual alpine, perennial and woodland plants. We have been supplying plants by mail order for over ten years and many customers who bought from our first catalogue, are still ordering from us today. The nursery is located in the beautiful and un-spoilt Galloway countryside some 3 miles from Kirkcudbright. At the nursery you will find many hundreds of scarce and unusual plants that are only ever available in small numbers and never get into the main catalogue. Buckland Plants is a small nursery some 350ft above sea level and our climate is moist and quiet cold as at this height we lose most of the benefit of the Gulf Stream. However, we can grow many of the choicer woodland and Asiatic species well and these will feature increasingly in subsequent catalogues.


The Globe Inn (Dumfries)

56 High Street, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2JA
Tel: 01387 252335
E-mail: mail@globeinndumfries.co.uk
Web: www.globeinndumfries.co.uk

Established in 1610, The Globe Inn, Dumfries has long been associated with Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet. In 1796, Burns wrote "....the Globe Tavern here, which these many years has been my Howff....." and in 1819 the first of what was to become the annual tradition of Burns Suppers was held here at The Globe Inn in Dumfries, south west Scotland. At his howff (or haunt) his favourite seat still survives and some of his poetry may still be seen inscribed by Robert Burns with a diamond on his bedroom windows. The Globe Inn is an important historic pub, steeped in the history of Robert Burns and Dumfries. Every corner is packed with fascinating memorabilia making The Globe a central part of any visit to Dumfries.



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Theme Parks

Although there are not any theme parks actually in Dumfries and Galloway, a selection of the closest parks are listed below.


M&D's Scotland's Theme Park

Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell, Scotland, ML1 3RT
Tel: 0870 112 3777    Fax: 01698 303034
E-mail: info@scotlandsthemepark.com
Web: www.scotlandsthemepark.com

Welcome to the Biggest Day Out In Scotland! With our fantastic Indoor Entertainment Complex, you and your family can have fun, no matter what the weather is like. There is something for everyone, kids and adults alike. From the very best selection of kiddie rides in the country to the biggest and fastest high octane thrill rides in the country. Brave the roaring fury of the Tornado, hold on for dear life on the Vortex. Or prepare to change your underwear on... The Buzzing Bee's!


Loudoun Castle

Galston, Ayrshire, KA4 8PE
Tel: 01563 822296    Fax: 01563 822408
E-mail: info@loudouncastle.co.uk
Web: www.loudouncastle.co.uk

With the magnificent and imposing ruins of Loudoun Castle as a stunning backdrop, the Theme Park is unique, with a safe and clean environment where there are Rides and entertainment in to suit all ages. Live shows featuring 'Rory & The Gang!' run throughout the day, everyday we are open. Come and join in the fun! Down at the Castle there's a wonderful new display of 'Birds of Prey'. Featuring the only Ruppel's Griffon Vulture in Scotland. We can cater at the Coach House' for that special birthday party. Ask for details of pricing and catering and leave the rest to us! It's bound to be a brilliant day to remember.



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Walks & Viewpoints

Carstramon Wood

Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries and Galloway
Tel: 0131 312 7765    Fax: 0131 312 8705
E-mail: enquiries@swt.org.uk
Web: www.swt.org.uk

Ancient deciduous woodland - although many of the oaks were planted using English acorns some 200 years ago. In spring the wood comes alive with the sound of summer migrant birds. Pied flycatcher, redstart, wood warbler and willow warbler all winter in Africa beyond the Sahara desert, and each year make the journey north to breed in Carstramon Wood. In May the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells. Abundant ferns and lichens benefit from the humid conditions that arise from the woods western location and unbroken tree cover.


Grey Mare's Tail

Adjacent to A708, 10 miles (16km) northeast of Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway.
National Trust for Scotland.

Spectacular 200ft. (61m.) waterfall on a hillside. Wild flowers and wild goats. Sanctuary for Covenanters in the late 17th century. Guided walks in the summer. Extremely dangerous to leave the paths.


Vinniehill

Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway

3.5 acre field with a hilltop viewpoint at the west end of the main street.


Solway Coastal Drive

 
From Dumfries take the A 710 to Dalbeattie. This road goes through countryside with picturesque villages, sandy bays and rocky coves. Views across Solway Firth.



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Zoos & Wildlife Parks

THE WILDFOWL & WETLAND TRUST

Eastpark Farm, Caerlaverock, Dumfries, DG1 4RS
Tel: 01387 770200
Web: www.wwt.org.uk

1,400 acre nature reserve. From October to April thousands of wild geese, swans and other birds can be seen from comfortable hides and observation towers. In summer, nature trails meander through flower meadows alive with wildlife.

Friendly wardens provide information and assistance. Special events include free wildlife safaris at 1100 and 1400 daily. Summer opening with Ospreys live and on CCTC. Natural history bookshop. Binoculars and telescopes for sale; binoculars for hire. Sheltered picnic area.

Tropic House

Langford Nursery, Carty Port, Newton Stewart, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 6AY
Tel: 01671 404050
E-mail
: alexandfiona@btopenworld.com
Web: www.tropichouse.co.uk

Free flying tropical butterflies during summer. Carnivorous and other exotic plant sales. Tea room, gift shop and garden centre - open all year - whatever the weather. Off A714, 1.5 miles south of Newton Stewart sign-posted from A75.


GALLOWAY FALCONRY

Tinwald Parks Farm, Tinwald, Dumfries, DG1 4PN
Tel: 0870 850 0879
E-mail: info@gallowayfalconry.co.uk
Web: www.gallowayfalconry.co.uk

Enjoy the thrills of birds of prey with courses and falconry experiences from one hour to five days. We are the only qualified falconry team in the South West of Scotland, all of our staff have currently received or working toward the new Lantra award in falconry.

We offer displays and demonstrations whether one bird or several, an informal chat or a grand scale display, we can do country shows, hotels or holiday parks, local galas and fetes. We also offer professional courses and a complete package for weddings which can include a tawny owl or barn owl fly down the aisle to deliver the wedding rings to the bride and groom.

Galloway Wildlife Conservation Park

Lochfergus Plantation, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway, DG6 4XX
Tel: 01557 331645
E-mail
: info@gallowaywildlife.co.uk
Web: www.gallowaywildlife.co.uk

Galloway Conservation park is set in 27 acres of mixed woodland. Our aim is to promote an understanding and awareness of animals and their environment, through conservation, exhibition and interpretation. Over 50 species of threatened and native animals are housed in sympathetic environments. A varied collection of nearly 200 animals from all over the world can be seen within the peaceful and natural settings where the woodland has been tailored to provide large and imaginative enclosures.


Mossburn Animal Centre

Hightae, Lochmaben, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 1LE
Tel: 01387 811288
E-mail
: mossburnanimalcentre2@hotmail.com
Web: www.mossburn.org

Mossburn provides rescue and shelter to a wide variety of animals including:
horses and ponies, pigs, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs, ferrets, degus, iguanas, sheep, emus, cows, raccoons and many more who seek shelter. Our rabbits have their very own village - Edinburrow, which is very popular, particularly with our younger visitors.
We welcome visitors. Admission to Mossburn is free, but donations are gratefully received...... and much needed! Staff are always happy to show you around and allow you to interact with the animals.


Mabie Farm Park

Burnside Farm, Mabie, Dumfries, Dumfries And Galloway, DG2 8EZ
Tel: 01387 259666
E-mail: shuttleworth@mabiefarm.co.uk
Web: www.mabiefarm.co.uk

A fun day out for all the family at Mabie Farm Park, whatever the weather. We have over 5,000 sq. ft of indoor play area with bouncy castles, trampolines and a soft play area for children under four. Outside in the Farm Park we have lots to see and do. paddle boats, astroslide, grass sledging and aerial runway and during the months March to October we run quad bikes. We have lots of friendly animals for you to feed and handle. Our Tearoom serves a range of snacks, drinks and Ice Cream. We are agents for Berg toys and there is a display in our farm toy shop.


Monreith Animal World Shore Centre and Museum

Low Knock Farm, Monreith, Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire, DG8 8NQ
Tel: 01988 700217

Animal park renowned for happy animals in large natural enclosures. Otters, owls, goats, pigs, ponies, cattle, reptiles, waterfowl, birds, small rodents, chickens. Peaceful pond side walk. Gavin Maxwell museum. Gift shop.


Port Logan Fish Pond - Marine Life Centre

Port Logan, Nr Stranraer, Dumfries & Galloway, DG9 9NF
Tel: 01776 860300
E-mail
: ian.whitehead6@btinternet.com
Web: www.loganfishpond.co.uk

Logan fish pond is a fully restored Victorian fish larder in a unique setting. A historic tidal pool created by a blow hole which formed some time during the last ice age. Recent additions to the original pond include Touch Pools, Cave Aquarium and Gift Shop. On the rocks next to the Fish Pond is the Bathing Hut, now restored and open for viewing. Beyond the Bathing Hut is the Bathing Pool. In Victorian times this was a favourite place for family outings from Logan House.


Galloway Deer Range

Off A712, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway, DG7 3SQ
Tel: 07771 748401

Why not come along and enjoy a unique experience at Galloway Red Deer Range? Entrance fee includes a guided tour through the range, mingling with stags, hinds and calves. The tour lasts 1.5 hours, guided by a forest ranger. Sensible footwear is advisable and a camera essential.


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