5 Top-Rated Things to Do in Dumfries

Dumfries

5 Top-Rated Things to Do in Dumfries

One of the largest towns in southwest Scotland is The Queen of the South, also known as Dumfries. The picturesque River Nith runs through its bustling town center, and a centuries-old bridge crosses the river nearby.

The following is a list of the five most popular things to do in Dumfries.

1-Admire History at Caerlaverock Castle

A stunning medieval fortress located less than ten miles south of the town center is Caerlaverock Castle. It has a moat, a gatehouse with two towers, and a triangular shape that no other castle in the UK has. The fort’s military and stronghold status are indicated by these attractive features.

The historic castle is currently managed by Historic Environment Scotland. The castle may be closed to visitors due to masonry inspections and projects, but the grounds are always open to visitors, and just seeing the moat-lined castle is worth the short commute.

Spend some time exploring the nearby Caerlaverock Wetland Centre when you visit the castle. This vast reserve, which is just a short drive from the castle and is managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT), is open to the public for exploration. There are a lot of nature trails, including the well-known Sir Peter Scott woodland trail.

Address: Castle Road End, Dumfries DG1 4RU, United Kingdom

2-Tour the Robert Burns House on the Burns Heritage Trail

In Dumfries, Robert Burns’ legacy is on full display. The Burns Heritage Trail only includes the poet’s hometown house, mausoleum, and various museum exhibits. The poet’s 37-year life in Dumfries and his legacy are celebrated in this self-guided tour. In 1796, Robert Burns passed away in Dumfries.

Along the Burns Heritage Trail, the main attraction is the Robert Burns House. Dumfries’ modest two-story sandstone residence was where Burns spent his final years, surrounded by family. For Burns fans and admirers, it is now a popular museum space and pilgrimage destination. Burns’ deathbed, writing implements, and manuscripts are all displayed there.

Address: Burns Street, Dumfries DG1 2PS, United Kingdom

3-Check Out the Airplanes at the Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum

The local aeronautic history of the area can be fascinatingly examined at the Dumfries Aviation Museum. The museum is two miles northeast of the town center on the grounds of the RAF Dumfries from World War II. The museum’s outdoor campus, which is centered around a former control tower, is littered with retired aircraft.

It’s glaringly obvious the warplanes, helicopters, and top secret planes across the exhibition hall’s grounds. The exterior of the property is lined with several metal hangars, some of which have exhibits and other aircraft on display. These engineering artifacts can be seen up close by visitors. Volunteers work on plane restoration in workshops at other hangars.

Address: Former Control Tower, Heathhall Industrial Estate, Tinwald Downs Rd, Dumfries DG1 3PH, United Kingdom

4-Meet the Residents at Mabie Farm Park

Below Mabie Forest, southwest of the town center is a 77-acre family-friendly farm park. In addition to a few indoor and other kid-friendly attractions, it includes several farm-related and outdoor activities.

At Mabie Farm Park, visitors can feed the animals and observe those who live in the barn. Alpacas, pigs, horses, goats, and donkeys are among the animals at Mabie Farm Park.

A “Choo-Choo” Express, trampolines, and grass slides are additional attractions. There is food, a bathroom, and a water fountain.

Address: Mabie Ct, Dumfries DG2 8EZ, United Kingdom

5-Dive into History at the Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura

The town center is on the other side of the River Nith, and this regional history museum is on top of a hill. From this high vantage point, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the region’s lengthy history. It’s also one of the best free things to do in Dumfries because admission is free.

The collection museum is made up of several galleries and exhibits. Fossilized footprints and textiles from local manufacturing plants from the turn of the century fill the large gallery area on the first floor. A few taxidermy creatures are likewise shown, featuring the locale’s dynamic fauna.

At the Dumfries Museum, the displays seem to never end. From the main gallery, a flight of stairs leads to more rooms filled with memorabilia.

Additionally, spiral stairs lead the exhibits up the museum’s distinctive windmill tower, which is topped by Dumfries’ historic Camera Obscura. When the weather is nice, this historic Camera Obscura, installed in 1836, is shown.

Address: The Observatory, Rotchell Rd, Dumfries DG2 7SW, United Kingdom