Are you staying at Westlands soon and wondering, what can I do in Dumfries and Galloway? Well, we thought we’d give you a guide of things to do in the area. If you’re looking for places to visit during your stay our guide should come in handy.
We have a couple of activities on-site at Westlands that you’ll be able to do while staying. On-site we have a state of the art clay pigeon shooting ground with over 20 stands. We also offer both catch and release fishing with two fully stocked ponds with only the best local rainbow, blue and tiger trout.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, a tea or coffee or even a little tipple, you can visit The Stand Bar & Restaurant which you’ll be able to find on-site.
So, we’ll kick things off with the top 10 attractions in Dumfries and Galloway that we’d recommend.
Our recommended attractions:
- Caerlaverock Castle: The castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region due to its rich history. As well as the castle, there are some lovely walks around the castle which are perfect for the dog. The castle is just a few miles outside of Dumfries.
- Drumlanrig Castle: If you like delving deep into history then you’ll love a day at Drumlanrig Castle. You’ll be able to soak up the culture, explore the beautiful surrounding countryside or take to the mountain bike trails. If you’d like to travel to Drumlanrig Castle, you’ll find it just outside of Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway.
- Mabie Farm Park: If you’re looking for a great day out with the kids, then Mabie is the perfect place to visit. There’s a huge play park, boats, go-karts, animals to feed and plenty more! Next door is Mabie Forest which has plenty of great walking routes. If you’d like to visit Mabie Farm Park, you’ll find it just outside of Dumfries.
- Caledonia Park (Gretna Gateway Outlet Village): If you’re in the mood for some shopping, then Caledonia Park is the place to visit with the biggest selection of stores in Dumfries and Galloway. Better yet, you can pick up some great bargains at outlet prices! The Caledonia Park is based just 6 miles away from Westlands.
- Annandale Distillery: If you’re into your whiskeys, then the Annandale Distillery should be the first place on the agenda when in Dumfries and Galloway. The distillery has some of the finest Scottish whiskeys on offer. The distillery is only a short 5 mile trip to Annan away from Westlands.
Places to eat in Dumfries and Galloway:
- The Stand Bar & Restaurant: Based on-site at Westlands is The Stand. We are proud to provide all our guests with a wide range of menus and food choices which change with each season. The best local produce is used throughout our menus to guarantee tasty dishes. All our meat is reared locally at Broats Hill Farm.
- The Townhead Hotel (NOW CLOSED: The Townhead Hotel is straight down the motorway from us at Lockerbie. There are plenty of tasty dishes on their menu which makes it one of the finest places to eat this side of Dumfries and Galloway.
- The Boathouse Cafe and Restaurant: One of the nicest spots in the region for breakfast and lunch boasting stunning views over the Solway Firth. The Boathouse will go hand in hand with a trip to Caerlaverock Castle as it’s just down the road from the castle at Glencaple.
- Just Be Bistro: Another great spot for breakfast and lunch based in the town centre of Lockerbie. The Bistro is a lovely little spot for a bite to eat or even just a coffee. If you do decide to pop down, give the pancakes a try. They’re delicious!
- La Fortuna Restaurant and Pizzeria: If you’re on the lookout for an Italian in the region, then La Fortuna is certainly up there with the best. Better yet, it’s only a short trip down the road to Annan.
Walking in the region:
- Mabie Forest, Forest of Ae, Dalbeattie Forest: Part of the famous 7Stanes mountain bike trails and 3 of the most popular places for walking in Dumfries and Galloway. Each comes with a great variety of walks with different difficulty levels.
- Grey Mares Tail: One of the most rewarding walks in the region. The walk has a steep ascent to the top but boy is it worth it. On the rise to the top, you’ll climb alongside one of the most stunning waterfalls in Scotland. Once you get to the top you’ll set your eyes on Loch Skeen and you’ll realise the sore legs were worth it. If you’re feeling extra active, you can continue the climb up White Coomb and get an even better vantage point of Loch Skeen.
- Rockcliffe to Kippford: One of our favourite local Solway Firth Walks, this route takes in two lovely villages as well as the best coastal scenery in Dumfries and Galloway along with some quirky sculptures and other features. You can start this walk at either Rockcliffe or Kippford depending on how you’re feeling!
- Criffel Circular Route: Criffel is often the first thing you see on the horizon when approaching Dumfries and Galloway. The Criffel circular route is one of the most challenging walks in the region. At the top, you’ll have an amazing view of the surrounding area. There are easier routes up Criffel but they’re all quite tough due to the size of the hill!
- Balcary Bay to Rascarrel Bay: One of the most pleasant walks in Dumfries and Galloway. While on the cliffs, you’ll have unrivalled views of the sea. You might even be fortunate enough to spot dolphins, porpoises and seals. Once, you get to Rascarrel Bay, you’ll be able to take a dip in the sea. After that, you can have a picnic on the beach or continue your walk to Loch Mackie.
Our recommended activities in Dumfries and Galloway:
- Clay Pigeon Shooting at Westlands: Westlands Country Park’s premier shooting ground comprises up to 100 Promatic super sporter traps, throwing a large selection of targets. We have 20+ traps and Scotland’s highest high tower.
- Fishing at Westlands: Our beautiful ponds are stocked with only the best local trout. Open seven days a week, come along and experience the best fly fishing in the area.
- Galloway Activity Centre: Across the region just outside of Castle Douglas, you’ll find Galloway Activity Centre. Here, you can enjoy a host of different water sports, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, laser tag and more! The inflatable waterpark is great fun!
- 7Stanes Trails: If you’re looking to get out on your bikes, luckily for you, we’re based at the heart of the 7Stanes trails which offer some of the best mountain biking in Europe! There are routes for all abilities.
- Dalscone Farm Fun: Dalscone Farm is a great day out with the kids. There are plenty of activities, including soft play, mini golf and animal petting. It also has a great toy shop.
We hope this guide comes in handy! If there’s anything else you’d like to know, pop into reception or give us a call.