Top 10 Historic Sites in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland

This is a true Scottish tower house, built in 1590 and then improved in the 18th century. Living here gives a very different impression of the life of a Jacobean laird. Castle of Park can be booked for short breaks with the Landmark Trust, a charity that restores historic buildings at risk and makes them available for holidays.

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

Ellisland Farm, the rural home of Scottish National Bard Robert Burns, which he built for himself and his family in 1788. The place which inspired him to write some of his most famous poems including Auld Lang Syne and Tam O' Shanter. Visit the room in which he wrote these works and discover more about farm life in rural Dumfriesshire in the late 18th century. Along with the historic house and displays you can also explore the farmyard, farm buildings and take a walk along the river Nith with fabulous displays of flora and wildlife.

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.

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.

A Museum celebrating the birthplace and life of John Paul Jones a Scotsman who left home at 13 and was Captain of his ship by 21. He went on to become considered the Founder of the American Navy , reaching the rank of Captain and also an Admiral in the Russian Navy, working for Empress Catherine the Great of Russia. The King of France Louis XVI knighted John for services rendered to France and presented him with a gold hilted sword. An amazing story not to be missed.