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Day trips to nearby regions

the outside of Glasgow's stunning Riverside Museum

Riverside Museum, Glasgow

the pretty pink and yellow buildings and the bridge across the water in Ayr

Ayr

two cyclists stop in the middle of Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders to consult their map

Jedburgh

people sitting enjoying an alfresco drink from a rooftop with Edinburgh Castle in the background

an alfresco drink in Edinburgh

While Dumfries & Galloway offers a fantastic variety of things to see and do and places to see, it also makes the perfect base for exploring further afield.

All of southern and central Scotland is within two hours’ driving and can be easily reached for a fantastic day trip away.

The Scottish Borders

The Scottish Borders encompasses an appealing mix of rolling hills and moorland, gentler valleys, rich agricultural plains and rocky coastlines with its secluded coves and picturesque fishing villages. It’s a region with a rich heritage and culture, best seen in its many castles, abbeys, stately homes and museums. The area is also a paradise for hillwalkers and cyclists of all types while in the River Tweed and its many tributaries, you'll find some of the best fishing in Scotland.

Find out more about the Scottish Borders


Ayrshire & Arran

Ayrshire borders the beautiful Clyde Coast while the offshore island of Arran is often described as ‘Scotland in Miniature’ because of the rich variety of its landscape. The region is a golfers' paradise and is also home to some of the most prestigious heritage and visitor attractions that Scotland has to offer. Ayrshire was the birthplace of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns, and there are many reminders of the man and his world to explore here.
 
Find out more about Ayrshire & Arran

 
Greater Glasgow & the Clyde Valley

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and a vibrant cultural hub packed with world-famous art collections, museums and year-round festivals. With amazing architecture on almost every street and offering some of the UK’s best shopping and dining experiences, the city is regularly recommended as a ‘must-see’ destination by prestigious travel guides and publications. En route here from Dumfries & Galloway, you’ll pass through the rich countryside of the Clyde Valley and the UNESCO World Heritage site at New Lanark.

Find out more about Greater Glasgow & the Clyde Valley


Edinburgh & the Lothians

Scotland’s capital is a stunning city of contrasts where the historic meets cutting edge. Home to the world’s largest and greatest arts festival every August and a world-famous New Year’s party, it’s a year-round destination whose history and architecture has also distinguished it as a World Heritage Site in its own right. Surrounding the city, the lush Lothian countryside is packed with historic attractions and heritage sites and opportunities for exploring the great outdoors.

Find out more about Edinburgh & the Lothians