10 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Dumfries and Galloway That You Shouldn't Miss

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.

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.

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.

Museum of Lead Mining, is situated in Wanlockhead Village, which is the highest village in Scotland, we are 1531 feet above sea level. At the museum we have our Visitor Centre, Tour of Scotland's only real underground Lead Mine, 3 Period Cottages 1750,1850 and 1910. We also have the 2nd Oldest Subscription Library with the original collection of almost 3,000 books, which is the original Miners' collection. This is a Recognised Collection. If you would like to sample Gold Panning you can try one of our taster sessions. After your tour you can sit and relax in our Tearoom and sample the delightful homemade treats on offer, then finally you can visit our Gift Shop which hosts Local Crafts, Minerals, and lots more. Wanlockhead is known as a SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Welcome to Castle Kennedy Gardens, one of Scotland’s finest gardens, set in 75 acres and offering something for everyone to enjoy. From stunning fauna, to beautiful scenery, sculptured landforms, magnificent walks and popular bird hides, the Gardens are a hidden treasure in South West Scotland and a perfect haven for relaxing and exploring. The gardens and neighbouring Lochinch Castle also host civil and religious weddings and between them offer a diverse range of beautiful wedding venues for ceremonies and celebrations. We have a number of luxurious self-catering holiday cottages too for couples and families which are open for bookings throughout the year. Family home to the 14th Earl and Countess of Stair, the Gardens were the inspiration of the 2nd Earl of Stair in the 1730’s and are famous for colourful displays of Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Embothriums, many rare and exotic plants, 21 Champion Trees and a number of spectacular avenues and the romantic ruins of 16th Century Castle Kennedy. An elaborate series of terraces and land sculptures can be found throughout the Gardens forming stunning patterns of curves and banks. Despite their contemporary look and feel these were constructed in the 1730’s using men with carts and horse drawn equipment to move and mould the landscape. The stunning Avenues in the Gardens were originally planted with specimen seeds given by famous botanical explorer Joseph Hooker. Each Avenue was planted with a single type of tree, many of which can still be seen today. These include the 150 year old Monkey Puzzle Avenue, the Thuja Avenue and the Dettingen Avenue which is lined with evergreen oaks. The beautiful two acre Circular Pond filled with rare Victorian water lilies is also a highlight. Our charming Tea Room is the perfect place to enjoy a light meal of sandwiches, soup, baked potatoes, hot drinks, delicious home-baking and tasty children’s menu. Access to the Tea Room only is available without paying admission to the Gardens, making it an ideal journey break or unique location for a business or social lunch. This year we continue to enhance your visit to our Gardens with a wide range of events and activities for the whole family. These include weekly Ranger Activities which follow a monthly theme and our regular guided garden walks. And the romantic ruins of 16th Century Castle Kennedy provide a stunning backdrop to open air theatre productions. We hope you find a special event of interest to you and your family and enjoy your time in the Gardens.

Port Logan Fish Pond is a 200 year old sea fish larder near Port Logan on the beautiful Galloway coast in South West Scotland. This unique place is home to wide variety of local marine life and has a fascinating history. We are open every day from March to October 10 - 5.

The Mull of Galloway is Scotland's most Southerly Point and an unspoiled paradise for visitors seeking peace and tranquility. We hope you will enjoy your visit and discover for yourself the beautiful countryside, beaches, splendid views and warm climate. Climb Scotland's most southerly Lighthouse, visit our Exhibition of Lighthouse History, RSPB reserve and visitor centre and Gallie Craig coffee house. Visit our website for seasonal opening times and to plan your visit. We have regular Engine and Foghorn demonstrations, check our website for details. Group bookings are welcome by arrangement. Our vintage Engines and Foghorn are now fully refurbished and are running again after 30 years. Our three former Lighthouse Keepers Cottages are available for holidays throughout the year. Pets are welcome. The cottages can be booked individually or as a group - we can accommodate up to 16 guests plus infants. The Mull of Galloway is an authorised location for weddings, see our website.