Dumfries Overview
Dumfries is a market town based in the south of Scotland, it is located a few miles in land along the River Nith and is nicknamed the Queen of the South. The picturesque town is famed for the beautiful surroundings in and around the town, from national parks, sandy beaches, forests and much more. Dumfries is known for its culture, every year starts off with a vibrant Big Burns Supper festival, this takes place in January and runs for 11 days bringing a wide range of events over a selection of venues. The festival is the biggest event in the calendar for this town and everyone who lives there likes to get involved and make it bigger and better every year, the events range from live music, cabaret shows and even exhibitions in art galleries and museums. Built in the late 13th century the Caerlaverock Castle is a very popular tourist destination, and this is due to its famous moat that surrounds the castle as well as the history of the castle which you can find out by visiting it.
Things to do in Dumfries
One of Scotland’s newest tourist attractions is the Crawick Multiverse, it is a stunning work of land art which has turned a former coal mine into an incredible outdoor space to be enjoyed by tourists, locals of all interests and ages. The Crawick Multiverse was built to represent some of the most exciting discoveries and theories of the universe which makes it a great place to spend the day learning and having fun. For those of you who don’t mind stairs or heights, then head over to the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse, with 115 steps the view when you reach the top is phenomenal. As well as beautiful views, you can also learn about what it takes to be a lighthouse keeper and find out more with the lighthouse exhibition. To learn about the history of the town you will be living in, the Dumfries Museum is perfect for that and is free to enter. At the top of the museum is the Camera Obscura which is a historical astronomical instrument which gives fascinating panoramic views over the town. There are a couple of shopping centres with well-known high street brands as well as a plethora of independent boutiques and markets.
Sport in Dumfries
There are several leisure centres and swimming pools located in and around the town with each of them offering a wide range of facilities. There is also a lot of sports pitches that are free to use, most of these pitches are located in the local parks with some of them offering tennis courts as well. Dumfries is known for having some of the most thrilling mountain bike trails as well as some very calm cycle and walking paths. There are lots of water sports that you can take part in just towards the coast of the city, you can sail, windsurf, surf plus many more.
Escape Dumfries
To the west of the city is Galloway Forrest Park which is famed for having breath-taking lochs and fantastic mountain views, the national park is a great day out at anytime of the year. To the south of the city you have the coastline in which you will find lots to do mixed in with lovely little villages and towns. Roughly an hour drive north is Glasgow making it the perfect day out for you and your friends as well as a great nightlife.
Transport in Dumfries
The national motorway network runs just outside the town which once on you will be able to travel to most major cities in the UK. From the train station in Dumfries you are able to get direct trains to both Edinburgh and Glasgow as well as some major cities in the UK. National coach services run from the town as well.
