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Dumfries & Galloway Tourist Attractions

Tourist attractions, amusements, antique centres, theme parks, steam railways, factory shops, zoos & wildlife centres, country parks, etc in Dumfries & Galloway...





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This page covers general tourist attractions, including amusement parks, boat trips, steam and miniature railways, theme parks, specialist shops, factory shops and outlet villages, guided walks, country parks, viewpoints, zoos and wildlife parks, etc.

We know that not all the attractions in this area are listed. Please help us make this guide comprehensive by sending us details of missing attractions.

 

Dumfries & Galloway Tourist Attractions

 
blank tabTHE WHITHORN STORYTourist Attraction
45-47 George Street, Whithorn, Newton Stewart, Dumfries & Galloway, DG8 8NS
Establishment Photo
New for 2012 is the Whithorn Treasures Touched by Kings exhibition featuring the magnificent 12th century Whithorn Crozier on loan courtesy of the Trustees of the National Museums Scotland and the exquisite Whithorn Reliquary on loan from the British Museum.

Displays use models and fascinating objects revealed by archaeology to tell the story of the town, church and pilgrimage centre at Whithorn, home of Ninian, Scotland's first saint.
Tel: 01988 500508
E-mail: enquiries@whithorn.com
Web: www.whithorn.com
See our website

blank tabTHE CLOG AND SHOE WORKSHOPTourist Attraction
The Old School, Balmaclellan, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway, DG7 3QE


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.
Tel: 01644 420465    Fax: 01644 420777
E-mail: footwear@clogandshoe.co.uk
Web: www.clogandshoe.co.uk
See our website

blank tabDRYFESDALE LODGE VISITORS' CENTRE TRUSTTourist Attraction
Dumfries Road, Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 1HZ


Charity no: SC 032947 - Two exhibition rooms and the Dryfesdale Room, where visitors can peruse 'On Eagles Wings'*, and the 20th Anniversary Quilt. Ten panels depict Lockerbie's unique past from its pre-historic origins to the present day. Temporary exhibitions of local arts and crafts, plus information about places of interest in the area. Within the cemetery grounds, a short walk away is the Lockerbie Memorial Garden of Remembrance. Since opening in October 2003 over 55,000 people from both home and overseas have visited Dryfesdale Lodge Visitors' Centre, which is not just a memorial to the air disaster but a tribute to the community of Lockerbie. *Information about the victims of the air disaster 21st December 1988.

blank tabTHE DEVIL'S PORRIDGE EXHIBITIONTourist Attraction
Daleside Buttersdale Road, Eastriggs, Dumfries & Galloway, DG12 6TQ


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.
Tel: 01461 700021    Fax: 01461 700021
E-mail: devils-porridge@tiscali.co.uk
Web: www.devilsporridge.co.uk
See our website

blank tabDALTON POTTERYTourist Attraction
Meikle Dyke, Dalton, Nr Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 1DU


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.
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Moffat Walking Festival

Contact: Moffat Initiative, 1 Ladyknowe, Moffat, DG10 9DY
Tel: 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. Walks for all levels from gentle to strenuous and evening entertainments.

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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 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.

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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. 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. Car park for 6 cars available which is 0.25 miles away at Sweetheart Abbey. Heavy traffic prevents setting down nearer the property.

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King Robert The Bruce's Cave

Cove Estate, Kirkpatrick Fleming, Nr Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 3AT
Tel: 01461 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.

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Buckland Plants

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

A small, established family run nursery specialising in choice and unusual alpine, perennial and woodland plants. 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.

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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.

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Dumfries & Galloway Theme Parks, Amusement Parks, etc

M&D's Scotland's Theme Park

Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell, Scotland, ML1 3RT
Tel: 01698 333777    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!

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Dumfries & Galloway Preserved Railways, Steam, Narrow Gauge and Miniature Railways


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Dumfries & Galloway Antique Centres, Factory Outlets, Specialist retailers


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Dumfries & Galloway Country Parks, Walks & Viewpoints

 
blank tabGALLOWAY FOREST PARKWalks & Viewpoints
Forestry Commission, Galloway Forest District, Cree Bridge, Newton Stewart, DG8 6AJ


We are the UK's first dark sky park, access from the North take the A713 or A714 and from the South take the A75. There is also access via an unclassified forestry track from the A714. The park covers areas of Strathclyde, Dumfries and Galloway. Southern Uplands scenery of wooded mountains, hills, lochs and streams. Deer, goats, otters, wild cats and other wildlife inhabit the forested areas. Climbing, walking, fishing, camping and swimming are available. A deer park and wild goat park are located in the Forest Park.
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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.

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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.

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Vinniehill

Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway

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

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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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Dumfries & Galloway Zoos and Wildlife Parks, Birdwatching, Rescue Centres

 
blank tabTHE WILDFOWL & WETLAND TRUSTZoos & Wildlife Parks
Eastpark Farm, Caerlaverock, Dumfries, DG1 4RS


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 1400 daily. Summer opening with Ospreys live and on CCTC. Natural history bookshop. Binoculars and telescopes for sale; binoculars for hire. Sheltered picnic area. We now have a fair trade coffee shop serving teas, coffess, homebaking and light meals.
Tel: 01387 770200

Web: www.wwt.org.uk
See our website
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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.

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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.

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Mossburn Animal Centre

Hightae, 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.

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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.

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Monreith Animal Park

Low Knock Farm, Monreith, Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire, DG8 8NQ
Tel: 01988 700217    Web: http://home.btconnect.com/monreith/page7.html

Animal park renowned for happy animals in large natural enclosures. Owls, pigs, ponies, cattle, waterfowl, birds, small rodents, chickens. Peaceful pond side walk.Gift shop.

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Port Logan Fish Pond - Marine Life Centre

Port Logan, Nr Stranraer, Dumfries & Galloway, DG9 9NF
Tel: 01776 860300    E-mail: loganfishpond@hotmail.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.

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