7 Most Exciting Things to Do in Castle Douglas

Whether you are travelling with the family or alone, there are plenty of things to do in the United Kingdom. You can go to Torquay for Kents Cavern and Princess Gardens, or you might as well opt for “The Deep” Aquarium in Immingham. Going Northwards to the heart of Scotland won’t leave you disappointed either. In fact, Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway has a lot of important sites to visit suitable for every interest. Here are some of the most exciting things to do in Castle Douglas, Scotland.

 

1. Explore Threave Garden and Estate

If you want to make the most of your stay in Castle Douglas, you definitely mustn’t miss Threave Garden and Estate. Its Victorian walled garden was first built in 1872 and is also home to the display glasshouses containing lovely collections of orchids and cacti.

The rooms of Threave Estate House have been turned into a museum reflecting the lifestyle of the Gordon Family who used to live there in the 1930s. The garden is home to seasonal events such as the Easter Egg Hunt and the Halloween trail, which makes it ideal to visit in these periods of the year.

As for refreshments, you can try Terrace Café and Stables Café at the centre of the garden for lovely cakes and mouth-watering ice cream.

 

2. Visit Lochhill Equestrian and Trekking Centre

No trip to Castle Douglas is complete without a visit to the Lochhill Equestrian Centre. This place provides horse-riding services such as horse sales, teaching lessons, and livery yards for horses and ponies. Lockhill Centre welcomes visitors and families, and you can take your children on a lovely horse-ride for the first time in their life.

Lockhill Centre is very well organised and has excellent safety. For those not interested in horse-riding, it provides a long hiking trek with an amazing view of the area. You can also stop at Kirkcudbright for a fabulous meal or drink in its outstanding bars and restaurants.

 

3. Go to Mossyard Beach

Mossyard Beach should be a must-see on your list of places to visit in Castle Douglas. Located in the heart of rural Dumfries and Galloway, Mossyard Beach attracts flocks of people for its sandy areas and rock pools. It is a very relaxing place for a family visit with clear water and unspoiled shells.

There might be nothing better than a walk on the beach on a sunny day with your kids and pets or even alone. The kids can also go to the waters for a little swim, and this can even add extra joy to the family visit. Moreover, there are caravan park facilities near the beach that you can use during your visit.

 

4. Stroll through Galloway Forest Park

In Galloway Forest Park, there is something for everyone and fun for all the family. It is claimed to be the largest forest park in the UK, and its visitor centres attract thousands of people each year.

The main visitor centres of Galloway Forest Park are as follows:

•         Kirroughtree Visitor Centre is where you can relax and gear up for one of the walking trails and enjoy the view.
•         Clatteringshaws Loch is where you can watch the waterbirds in the summer, or see a natural stellar show in the night sky. You can also take a walk around the Loch and absorb the stunning scenery.
•         Glentrool is a mountain bike centre and gives access to Loch Tool and the great landscape around it, as well as the historical Bruce's Stone which is the reminiscence of the battle of Glentrool.
•         Raiders’ Road Forest Drive is perfect for those interested in exploring the forest by car. You can also use the Otter Pool car park, and use the grounds to picnic or play.
•         Red Deer Range gives you the opportunity to get as close as possible to the red deer and observe the way they live in their natural environment. Apart from the red deer, you can also spot birds of prey from the viewing area, or gaze at the bright stars at night.

 

5. Watch Kites at Galloway Kite Trail

Galloway Kite Trail is perfect for walkers and cyclists, but what makes it extra special is the chance to spot the magnificent red kites as they fly around Loch Ken. The red kites are birds of prey that were first introduced into the area in 2001.

At the feeding station’s visitor centre, you will get the opportunity to have a close view of the birds against a spectacular background of the countryside. There is also a café where visitors can have some refreshments and a small shop with locally made products.

Kites are not the only birds you can see, as other wildlife like linnets and yellowhammers are also seen in the summer. Apart from that, there are several trails up to 5 kilometres for a walk around the countryside taking in the beauty of the landscape.

 

6. Go Clay Shooting at Forrest Estate Experiences

Forrest Estate Experience is the perfect place to go for anyone visiting Castle Douglas for a brief experience of country sports. At the Estate, you can try air rifle and clay pigeon shooting, game shooting and fly fishing. There are also expert instructions by an excellent guide for those who are complete novices in the field.

Besides shooting, the place is excellent for trout and fly fishing. You will enjoy the thrill of fishing at Mossroddich loch while enjoying a wonderful atmosphere. Just like for shooting, there are courses offered too if you are interested.

 

7. Soak Up the Art in the Gallery at Laurieston

A trip to the Gallery at Laurieston won't leave you disappointed – whether you're an art lover or not. Placed in what used to be a local village inn, among the most relaxing and rural settings, the Gallery is well-placed for anyone obsessed with fine arts.

The gallery was established in 2015 to host great works of art by Phil McMenemy, the owner of the gallery, as well as works by other artists. The selection of paintings, ceramics, and photographs are impressive, and you will be able to listen to the artist and get his ideas on the works he has done.

There is also a café where you can have excellent coffee with superb cakes and scones.

 

Where to Stay in Castle Douglas

If you are weary from your trip and looking for a place to stay the night or your whole trip, Douglas Arms Hotel by Páyman Club, situated at the corner of King Street and St Andrew’s Street, is the right accommodation to choose. It offers double rooms to quad rooms with the various amenities available. To make sure there is availability for you, you can check Douglas Arms Hotel in detail and book direct.