The Secret Scotland - Gardens
Dumfries & Galloway has some of the best gardens in the country - mainly because of the warm air brought in by the Gulf Stream which keeps away the hard winter frosts.

Kirkcudbright

Kirkcudbright is a beautiful fishing town situated on the river Dee. At the turn of last century there was a thriving artists colony here; and at Broughton House there is a delightful Japanese garden which was created by E.A. Hornel (one of the Glasgow Boys). Today there are numerous galleries, MacLelland's Castle, a museum and plenty going on in the summer.

Dumfries

Dumfries, Robert Burns (Scotland's National poet) stayed in Dumfries for many years and there are various locations connected with him to visit. Another Robert, Robert the Bruce, also stayed locally. He slew the Red Comyn at Greyfriars Church - there is a small plaque on the wall to the left of this picture. At the moment there are plans afoot to build a museum to commemorate his connection with Dumfries.

Castle Douglas

Castle Douglas is a small bustling market town which has grown up at the side of Carlingwark Loch. You can hire a boat and row around the Loch; although you will need to be fit as its a big Loch. Nearby is Threave Gardens owned by the National Trust and also Threave Castle. To the North is Loch Ken which is a haven for wild life, anglers and water sports enthusiasts.

Isle of Whithorn

Isle of Whithorn is a small village at the very end of The Machars and is famous for its connections with St Ninian. St Ninian brought Christianity to Scotland. There is a very small ruined 13th century chapel and 4 miles to the west is St Ninian's Cave. Early Christian crosses were found here which are now housed at the Whithorn Museum. Across the whole area of the Machars there can be found various ancient sites: stone circles, ancient forts, standing stones and cup & ring marked stones. A booklet is available at the local tourist offices.

Moffat

Moffat is a beautiful village tucked in under the Moffat Hills - ideal as a base for hill walking. If you come down from Edinburgh by upper Tweedale and up past the source of the River Tweed, you then come down a very windy road past the Devil's Beef Tub (a steep sided ravine where stolen cattle where once hidden). There are fine views from here on a clear day down to the Solway Firth and the Lake District beyond it. Moffat itself has lots of nice wee gift shops and a woolen mill. If you have a sweet tooth you should try the local delicacy, "Moffat Toffees".