Known for being the National Book Town of Scotland, Wigtown is located within the Dumfries and Galloway region in Scotland. As well as being home to many independent bookstores and literary events, the area has a variety of activities for visitors ranging from historical tours to outdoor adventures:
Robert Burns Centre
Situated in an 18th century watermill by the banks of the River Nith, you will find the birthplace of Scotland’s national poet and a museum dedicated to his life and works. Mark your visit in true Burns fashion with haggis, neeps and tatties in the museum café. In the evenings, the Robert Burns Centre becomes a contemporary cinema screening a mixture of independent cinema, foreign language and arthouse films, documentaries, events and classic films.
Solway Firth
Take a picturesque walk along the Solway Firth, a 30 mile long estuary and an AONB offering spectacular views and bird watching opportunities. This spot is also known to be one of the best fishing locations in the UK due to its large tides supplying nutrients to a rich diversity of marine life.
Caerlaverock Castle
Caerlaverock Castle is a mediaeval castle located near the Solway Firth. It was built in the 13th century and is famous for its wide moat, twin-towered gatehouse, and unique triangular design. The castle was a strategic fortress during border conflicts and was besieged several times. Today it is a well-preserved ruin open to visitors, and a popular location for film and television productions.
Mull of Galloway
Known for its rugged beauty and breathtaking coastal views, the Mull of Galloway is a peninsula at the southernmost point of Scotland extending into the Irish Sea. Visit the southernmost lighthouse in Scotland, built in 1830 or explore the RSPB reserve - home to a wide variety of bird species, including guillemots, kittiwakes, and razorbills.
Cream o' Galloway
Cream o' Galloway is a dairy farm and ice cream parlour popular with families and foodies alike. It is known for producing high-luxury, organic ice cream and other dairy products using milk from their own herd of cows. The farm also offers tours and activities such as cow milking, cow grooming, and ice cream making.
The Cocoabean Company
A must-visit for the chocoholics! The Cocoabean Company specialises in handcrafted chocolates and chocolate gifts using unique and creative flavours from high-quality ingredients. As well as the outdoor adventure playground and indoor soft play area, guests can enjoy chocolate workshops for children and adults of all ages and abilities.
Galloway Hills
The Galloway Hills are a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities - the area is home to the Merrick, the highest hill in the Southern Uplands. Fortunate hikers will observe a diverse range of animals en route, such as deer, red kites, and golden eagles. The hills are also home to many rivers and lochs, where you can catch trout and salmon. There are also many challenging mountain bike trails suitable for experienced bikers.
Bladnoch Distillery
Bladnoch Distillery produces a single malt whisky known for its light, floral character and has a reputation for being one of the most delicate and elegant of the Lowland malts. The distillery is open to the public for history tours and sample tastings.
Crafty Distillery
Set on a hillside with stunning views to the Galloway Hills, the warm and charming Crafty Distillery tasting room is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a range of tasty spirits.