Dumfries

Dumfries is the largest town in Dumfries and Galloway. Situated on the banks of the River Nith, Dumfries plays host to a wide variety of activities and attractions. Historically, Dumfries was at one time, home to Robert Burns who is buried at St Michaels. J.M Barrie was educated in Dumfries and Robert the Bruce killed the Red Comyn on the steps of Greyfriars Church in the town. Dumfries has a busy town centre with many well-known high street stores as well as small local shops. In summer, there's always plenty to inspire you to get out and about. Enliven your break and join the locals at a host of events and festivals...

Castle Douglas

Castle Douglas is a small town situated near the centre of Dumfries and Galloway, an ideal base for exploring the region. The town has an interesting history, especially that of Threave Castle, the stronghold of the Black Douglases. Castle Douglas has recently been launched as a Food Town and visitors can enjoy a variety of foods in Castle Douglas, whether Eating Out or merely buying quality food products.

Kirkcudbright

A beautiful ancient harbour town made famous by a group of Scottish artists called the "Glasgow boys" who made Kirkcudbright thier base for retreating from Glasgow. It is said that there is a particular quality of light that still makes Kirkcudbright a destination for artists. It is a beautiful town just a few minutes drive from The Old Exchange that has an old high St full of artists galleries and craft shops.

Kippford

About 20 minutes drive along the Solway coast on route to New Abbey is the quaint sailing port of Kippford. This is a great place to come for lunch in one of the two pubs that overlook the bay. There is a lovely walk along the jubilee footpath that is only one mile that takes you to the equally spectacular bay of Rockcliffe (we named two of our accommodations after these two villages)

Rockcliffe

A beautiful village close to Kippford, there is a small sandy beach with some rocky outcrops with rock pools. It is a lovely place to walk or have a picnic on the beach. There is a really nice cafe at the side of the beach, and a Hotel for Dinner. The Hotel also has a galley. The Ark is one of the smallest shops in the region, but true to its name - it seems to have 2 of everything.

Whithorn

a Drive along the coast to the west of The Old Exchange takes you to many of the regions pettiest villages. Whithorn is one of these, it occupies the tip of the Wigtown Peninsula and is just a very pretty place to visit. It is said St Ninian landed here on his arrival to Scotland. Make sure you have dinner at the pub called the Steam Packet Inn. Perfect place to finish touring on a warm summer evening.

New Abbey

At the heart of this spectacular villlage is Sweetheart Abbey, a ruin that was once the centre of Christianity in Scotland. It was where Dervogilla, wife of John Balliol King of Scotland (and founder of Balliol College Oxford) she lost her husband but kept his heart close to her at all time's in a casket. She was finally buried here with the casKet. It is truely a romantic location and is often used for weddings. Thyere is a lovely tearoom next door.

Wigtown

This is a charming town with a broad high street and lots of bookshops. There are bookshops that specialise in different topics. There are a selection of cafe's and on a sunny day wigtown is a lovely place to amble around. I like to browse in the oldest bookshop where there are comfy armchairs and a plentyfull supply of coffee. I like to have lunch in the feminist bookshop across the road.