Things to see and do Dumfries

The impressive fortress of Caerlaverock seems impregnable, with its triangular structure in the middle of the water. Yet it was captured twice and one of the sieges lasted thirteen weeks. Built in the 13th century, it was the stronghold of the Maxwell family until they abandoned the place in the 17th century. The site, partly in ruins, retains considerable historical interest for its innovative architecture and its role in the wars against England. What appeals beyond history? Its enchanting and romantic aspect!

Moat Brae is the birthplace of Peter Pan... We'd like to write that all is said and done! Opened in 2019, it is the national centre for children's literature and children's stories: a place where imagination is the queen of virtues, where creativity and play are at the heart of everything. The place celebrates Peter Pan and his creator, J.M. Barrie. You will explore Neverland's garden with its pirate ship and Mermaid Lagoon, see the Tinkerbell fairy who inspired the fairy tale. Animations and exhibitions are regularly organised.

Annandale Distillery is one of the few distilleries in the South of Scotland. The site was bought in 2007 by enthusiasts, who wanted to bring it back to life. In 2018-2019, they released their very first single malt. It was an immediate success, as it was named in 2020 "Best Single Cask, Single Malt Scotch Whisky - 10 Years and Under" (Jim Murray's 2019 and 2020 Whisky Bibles). The distillery can be visited. It also has a beautiful store and a very pleasant café, The Malting Coffe Shop, where it is good to settle.

As its name suggests, this small museum specializes in aviation. It is located on the former Royal Air Force base: RAF Dumfries. In addition to the control tower which exhibits uniforms and objects related to the air force, several real models of planes and engines from different periods can be seen. It has in its collections some impressive aircraft specimens, but also airmen's uniforms from the two world wars and various objects that will make their effect.

Ellislad Farm is the farm where Robert Burns lived from 1788 to 1791. It was here that he wrote some of his most beloved nature poems. You will be immersed in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Almost nothing has changed since the poet and bard left the house. You will enjoy travelling back in time and discover the daily life in the 18th century, the farm buildings, the stable and the orchard... You will also be able to walk along the banks of the Nith and let yourself be carried away by bucolic inspirations...

The Dumfries Museum tells the story of Dumfries & Galloway from prehistoric times to not so long ago! Fossils, utensils from the early inhabitants, stones carved by Christians, life on a Victorian farm: the visit is a journey into the area's past. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year. On the top floor of the museum you will have access to the Camera Obscura (fee: £3.40/adult, £1.70/child), an optical instrument that offers a panoramic view of the town and surrounding countryside.

It was in this small, simple, unadorned townhouse that Robert Burns spent the last years of his life until his death in 1796. The interiors give us a good idea of how the Scottish bard lived with his wife, Jean Armour, and their children. We enter the office where he wrote some of his most beloved works, as well as the different pieces of his daily life. The house became a true place of pilgrimage afterwards: Wordsworth, Coleridge and Keats all passed through it to gather.

600 works of art by Scottish artists, from the 1880s to the present day, are stored in this gallery and are presented in its temporary exhibitions. There are of course paintings, especially by famous local watercolourists, but also sculptures and very contemporary works. Exhibitions vary regularly: the Scottish Boys, modern Scottish painting... Artists and craftsmen are also in the spotlight in the art centre's shop: a great idea to treat yourself to a unique souvenir! A café is also open on site.