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Dumfries and surrounding area

looking over the colourful daffodils outside the Post office at New Abbey, with the ruins of Sweetheart Abbey behind

New Abbey

looking across the River Nith to the Devorgilla Bridge and the houses in Dumfries

the River Nith in Dumfries

people sitting at the tables outside the tearoom at Sweetheart Abbey

the tearoom at Sweetheart Abbey

people shopping and sitting outside at a coffee shop on Dumfries High Street

the High Street of Dumfries

Enjoy a day in Dumfries, the lively capital of the region, or the pretty nearby village of New Abbey, home to one of the best attractions in the region.

Dumfries, known as ‘The Queen of the South’ is the capital of Dumfries & Galloway. Make a stop at this historic market town, famed for its connections with Scotland’s famous poet, Robert Burns. Situated on the wide banks of the River Nith, this lively town is only a short distance inland from the Solway Firth.

Where else can you fish for salmon right in the town centre, choose between four golf courses, find out about the life of Robert Burns, and visit the amazing Camera Obscura, one of only three working in Britain? There is plenty to keep you entertained in Dumfries. 

Aside from Burns’ former house, his favourite pub and final resting place, you’ll find Dumfries Museum, a swimming pool, nightclubs, two cinemas and good shopping opportunities. For a nearby day out, kids will love the farm parks at Dalscone and Mabie and enjoy an ice cream at Mouswald.

Heading out west, just 8 miles along the Solway Coast Heritage Trail lies the pretty conservation village of New Abbey. The imposing Sweetheart Abbey is one of the highlight attractions in the region. The village is also home to a saw mill, two hotels, village shop and a coffee shop which offers excellent scones and refreshments.

Discover the Caerlaverock Experience, just eight miles east along the Solway Coast Heritage Trail, which consists of an amazing triangular castle and nature walk, Wildlife and Wetlands Centre and National Nature Reserve.