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Step back in time at marvellous attractions

looking past the flowers to Dundrennan Abbey, near Kirkcudbright

Dundrennan Abbey, near Kirkcudbright

inside the New Abbey Corn Mill with all the old equipment

New Abbey Corn Mill

the ruined remains of Dundrennan Abbey amongst the trees

remains of Dundrennan Abbey

Dumfries & Galloway boasts a rich history so travel back in time and learn more at fascinating attractions.

Travel back in time as you learn more about the region’s rich history and discover some fascinating attractions in Dumfries & Galloway.

Spend an afternoon at New Abbey Corn Mill and learn all about the traditional food production methods used up to a century ago. You will be amazed at the machinery as the mill has been carefully restored so that everything remains as it was left by the last miller over 50 years ago.

The neat white-washed building is situated in the picturesque village of New Abbey next to the old mill pond. You will be transported back in time as you hear the sound of the waterwheel turning and you watch as the meal trickles into sacks. On days when the mill isn’t operating, you can still experience the sights and sounds from a special video presentation.

Visit the Castle of St John in Stranraer and discover the building’s varied and fascinating history. Originally built as a medieval townhouse by the Adairs of Kilhilt around 1500, the castle has since been used as a military garrison, local court and prison.

Watch reconstructions and videos that uncover the stories of the medieval landowners who originally resided there and the criminals and debtors imprisoned there during the 19th century. With informative displays and even a children’s activity room in one of the former jail cells, the Castle of St John is a must-see attraction.

Take a trip to Dundrennan Abbey and explore the former home of a community of 12th century Cisterean monks. Marvel at the well-preserved north and south transepts and take in the peaceful beauty of the ruins as you stand between the six artfully moulded piers, which once supported a magnificent, stone-vaulted ceiling.

Follow in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots when you visit the abbey as this is where she spent her last night in Scotland. After her escape from Lochleven Castle, near Kinross, she travelled to the abbey before boarding a boat bound for the Cumberland Coast the following day, never to return to her homeland.