Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. Cross the River Dee by boat to visit this enchanting castle on its own island. Once the bustling base of its creator, Archibald the Grim, it is now an ideal spot for exploring, picnicking and perhaps, painting. The island is rich with wildflowers in summer; you might also see ospreys and otters hunting in the river. The castle was besieged by King James II for two months in 1455, and fell after the king bribed the garrison to surrender.

The home in which national poet Robert Burns spent his last years.

This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. A fine example of a Scottish tower-house castle, Cardoness Castle was built in the later 15th century as the fortified residence of the McCullochs. Cardoness Castle is a well-preserved ruin where you can admire the exquisite architectural detail of this still magnificent structure, including the splendid fireplace and wall-cupboard where the family's best silverware was displayed, touch the intricate stone carvings and soak up the superb views over the beautiful Fleet Bay to the Solway Firth beyond.

Famous for runaway weddings since 1754 Gretna Green is a wonderful place to get married in and visit. The Famous Blacksmiths Shop is steeped in history and has been standing since 1713 making it the earliest venue in the area for weddings. The visitors attraction and shopping village is visited by over 1 million people per year and has a range of lovely shops on site which stock the best of Scottish menswear, ladieswear - including brands such as Joules, Barbour, Harris Tweed and Ness - Scottish gifts, Hampers and Homeware as well as a Foodhall selling local and traditional scottish produce.

This 10-mile road winds along the Black Water of Dee and through the forest.

Caerlaverock Castle is now open and we are delighted to welcome you back. Booking in advance is essential. Find out more and book at restarthistory.scot. With its moat, twin towered gatehouse and imposing battlements, this awe-inspiring castle is the epitome of the medieval stronghold and one of the finest castles in Scotland. Although ruined, Caerlaverock is still a substantial structure and you can explore many different features within its unique triangular ground plan. The castle's turbulent history owes much to its proximity to England which brought it into the brutal cross-border conflicts and you can enjoy a fascinating siege warfare exhibition complete with reconstructions of medieval siege engines.

Set on the spectacular 80,000 acre Queensberry Estate complete with Country Park and Victorian Gardens, Drumlanrig Castle presents one of the finest examples of late 17th century Renaissance architecture in Scotland and an internationally renowned art collection. Beyond the castle are over 40 acres of enchanting gardens and a wide range of activities including walking, mountain biking, adventure playground, wildlife watching, Scottish Cycle Museum, Landrover tours, Ranger-led walks, events programme as well as shopping and catering.