From Vikings to Covenanters; King Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots to Robert Burns, Dumfries and Galloway’s heritage is vast, with many ruins, monuments and museums to tell the story. Historic highlights are Caerlaverock Castle, near Dumfries, one of Scotland’s great medieval fortresses. Threave Castle, near Castle Douglas, set on its private island; Maclellan’s Castle, in Kirkcudbright, a 16th century townhouse; Dundrennam Abbey, near Kirkcudbright, where Mary queen of Scots spent her last hours on Scottish soil and Drumcoltran Tower, near Dalbeattie, a fortified mid-16th century L plan tower house. The life of Robert Burns is brought to life at Ellisland Farm near Thornhill and at his birthplace in Alloway, Ayrshire, which is not too far away and his home of many years and place of rest, Dumfries.
Art is also a major part of the regions culture, both past and present. There are many art galleries and events that celebrate the arts and literature to be enjoyed thought the year. Broughton House & Gardens, in Kirkcudbright is home to the renowned ‘Glasgow Boy’, artist E A Hornel and it is also here that you will find the Kirkcudbright Galleries, which is home to many high profile exhibitions. There are many other galleries in Dumfries and Galloway showcasing the work of local artists including the Harbour Cottage Gallery; The Gallery at Laurieston, McGill Duncan Gallery and Clience Studio all located in Castle Douglas. For arts and entertainment, with a regular annual calendar of theatre, music and dance events, CatStrand in New Galloway is worth checking out for what’s happening while you holiday in Dumfries and Galloway.