Dumfries

Dumfries is a historic market town that more than lives up to its local nickname, the Queen of the South. Located in the southern region of Dumfries & Galloway and connected by lovely russet-hued sandstone bridges which straddle the banks of the River Nith, this former royal burgh has an interesting history and special connection to Scotland’s National Bard.

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Search a wide range of accommodation, events, food & drink options and things to do from indoor and outdoor attractions to activities, tours and more.

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Things to do in Dumfries

Enjoy the great outdoors with plenty of outdoor activities and family attractions right on your doorstep.

Robert Burns

Discover Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns, his colourful life, most famous works, and the ultimate guide to celebrating Burns Night.

Golf in Dumfries & Galloway

Stay and play golf in Dumfries & Galloway at a variety of exciting courses.

Tours in Dumfries

Find your bearings and enjoy a tour from a local knowledgeable tour guide.

Moat Brae

Discover a world of stories and step into the childhood playground of author J.M. Barrie where Peter Pan was born.

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Inspiration for Dumfries breaks

Find the right accommodation to suit your needs for your break in Dumfries.

Nithbank Country Estate
© Nithbank Country House in Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway

Places to Stay

Take your pick of a variety of places to stay in Dumfries - from friendly B&B's, and cosy self-catering cottages, to family-friendly camp sites, glamping experiences and more.

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Mull of Galloway
© VisitScotland / Cutmedia

Tours, routes and trails

Explore the wonders of south Scotland with our jam-packed itineraries full of adventure.

Map of Dumfries

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How to travel to and around Dumfries

Just under two hours from Edinburgh by car, an hour and a half from Glasgow, and a mere 30 minutes from Gretna Green on the Anglo-Scots border, Dumfries is easy to reach whichever direction you’re travelling from.

Getting to

Train

If you are travelling by  train, there are frequent services running from Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as from towns and cities further north, including Aberdeen and Inverness. There are often deals and cheap tickets for many train journeys across Scotland.

Train travel Dumfries & Galloway

Edinburgh Waverley to Dumfries tickets

Driving

Bus and coach

Getting around

Cycling

You can also make use of the great cycle paths around the town. It's a quick, efficient and eco-friendly way to get around Dumfries. Make sure you pick up a cycling guide from the local information centre too!

Find more travel information to get to Dumfries

Bus and coach

Walking

What's on in Dumfries

Starry sky at Clatteringshaws Loch
© VisitScotland / David N Anderson

Events

Check out the latest events to make your trip to Dumfries extra special!

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Places to Eat in Dumfries

Find ideas on where to try Scottish food & drink in Dumfries.

Food & Drink

Enjoy a taste of south Scotland with these foodie suggestions.

A tip from your local expert

Moat Brae House and Garden
© VisitScotland / PRImaging

“

Experience for yourself the magical setting that inspired J.M. Barrie to create Peter Pan! Moat Brae House and the Neverland Discovery Garden is also Scotland’s National Centre for Children’s Literature and Storytelling.

Andrew

Assistant iCentre Manager, Dumfries

Find out more about Moat Brae

For more friendly advice, visit the Dumfries iCentre.

Other things you might like

Places to go

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