By Kingfisher Visitor Guides
Steeped in history and showcasing the beauty of lowland Scotland, Dumfries & Galloway is ready to welcome you. Have a wee dram in Rabbie Burns’ drinking hole; explore the fascinating museums; and don’t leave without a gift to remind you of your visit.
7 Selkirk Rd, Kirkcudbright DG6 4BL
I work in a wide range of styles, subjects and mediums to interest the most demanding appreciators of fine art, working from a dedicated studio and gallery where my current original images, and my works in progress, can be browsed. A great deal of my work is carried out to commission, which can vary in size from small miniatures to large oils on canvas. I work only with the highest quality materials, and can arrange to have your painting mounted and framed to suit your individual preferences. Painting is about communication, inspiration and revelation. I approach each subject individually, considering the various mediums available to interpret the subject to its best advantage.
You will always receive a warm welcome at the gallery, and if you wish to visit, it is best to phone first.
Aviation House, Carlisle Airport, Crosby-on-Eden, CA6 4NW
Keeping Cumbria’s aviation history alive, and charting the development of the British aircraft industry, Solway Aviation Museum is now fully open to welcome visitors. Covid-safe, with a one-way system to take you round the fine – and rare – examples of British engineering, the museum is home to a collection of aircraft, aviation artefacts, and displays reflecting Britain’s position as a world leader in aircraft design and innovation at the dawn of the jet age. The museum, which is run entirely by enthusiastic volunteers, offers a fascinating walk through aviation history, and of civilian life connected with Carlisle Airport.
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The Market, Scotch St, Carlisle CA3 8QX
The Market Hall Carlisle, also known as The Covered Market, offers a warm welcome to customers old and new. One of the country’s few remaining Victorian Covered Markets, this historic building is conveniently located in the pedestrianised city centre, with bus stops on its doorstep, a train station within walking distance, and car parks nearby.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around its open and airy mall, take time to browse the numerous stalls offering an amazing mix of goods and services and excellent value for money, then relax and enjoy a wonderful meal in one of its cafés or communal eating areas. The Market Hall has a friendly atmosphere and a sense of community among its traders, who offer customers a high standard of personal service.
With a covered market, arcade shops, T.K. Maxx, Wilko Stores, and toilet facilities, all under one giant roof – there certainly is something for all in The Market Hall.
212 King St, Castle Douglas, DG7 1DS
Nestled under the town clock in Castle Douglas High Street, Clience Studio is the creative space of resident artist, Angela Lawrence, who can often be found in the studio working on one of her signature sea and landscapes, that capture the beauty and light of Galloway and beyond. Her passion for the area is clear, and she is happy to chat about commissions that capture the special places that you love, and which will enhance your home. Original oils and a large selection of prints from her Galloway paintings are available to purchase, with some of the stunning images reproduced on gift items.
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If it weren’t for the endeavours of 12,000 women in a munitions factory in Scotland, World War I may well have ended sooner, with quite a different outcome – and women may not have been given the vote as soon as they were. The Devil’s Porridge Museum celebrates the sacrifices made by so many women working with the unpleasant and dangerous cordite that fuelled the bullets and bombs that ultimately helped to win the war, and change the position of women in society. The war wasn’t just taking place in France, it was being fought in a factory on the border of Cumbria and Scotland.
For a real taste of Scotland, a visit to the award-winning Annandale Distillery is a must.
Enjoy a guided tour at our 5* working distillery, take in the fascinating past with a glimpse into our future. Enjoy world-class whiskies at the first distillery in Scotland. Tours on the hour, every hour – learn the science behind the flavours and taste our award-winning whiskies.
A visit to the attractive, rural town of Annan, isn’t complete without seeing what is new in Rene’s Gifts and Accessories. The independent ladies gift and fashion boutique specialises in Italian clothing and leather handbags, and carries a beautiful range of costume jewellery and scarves. As proud stockists of Joma Jewellery and Katie Loxton – gorgeous sentiment gifts for all occasions – there will always be something to tempt you, and plenty of gifts to choose from for that special person.
Our award-winning park is situated on the beautiful coastline of Dumfries and Galloway, with direct access to a secluded beach overlooking picturesque Wigtown Bay, and only a short drive from the stunning Galloway Hills. There are many ways to enjoy a holiday at Auchenlarie Holiday Park, with caravans, lodges, camping and touring. We also offer caravan and lodge ownership!
With its indoor heated pool, sauna, arcade, daily entertainment, children’s indoor and outdoor play areas, Auchenlarie is the perfect base for a fun-filled family holiday, or a relaxing break away. We also have the superb Rob ‘n’ Roll Restaurant and Takeaway, plus a choice of three different bars, and our well-stocked Premier convenience store. Alternatively, you can simply relax in the comfort of your own holiday home and savour the superb sea views and beautiful scenery.
48a St Mary St, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4DN
Located on St Mary Street, the main road into Kirkcudbright, Brambles Deli sells a wide selection of delicious foods sourced both from local suppliers and from around the world, including artisan cheeses, chocolates, charcuterie, fresh olives, jams, relishes, tea, coffee, condiments, gluten-free and Fairtrade products, plus a wide range of Scottish Whisky and Organic Vegan Wines. We also stock a range of vibrant and stylish hand-crafted ceramics from Southern Spain – perfect for gifting and for use in the home. Why not try our Cheese Weekender Goody Bag – a selection of four different cheeses with oatcakes/crackers, fruit for cheese punnet, or chutney? Pop in to see what we have to offer, or order online, and share our passion for excellent quality food.
Established in 1568, the charming Black Bull Inn, in the vibrant town of Moffat, was once the watering hole of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns. Steeped in history, the traditional, family and dog-friendly inn is regularly nominated in pub and bar awards, and was voted one of Scotland’s ten best pubs in 2020, out of 16,000 establishments in the country! With a warm welcome, cosy rooms, a roaring fire, real ales, and surrounded by beautiful countryside, it is the hostelry of choice for many visitors to the Scottish Borders.
Image credits: ©Afunbags/stock.adobe.com
