Who needs sunshine to enjoy a Scottish summer. It’s about getting out and enjoying what’s on offer rain or shine, and Dumfries & Galloway in summer is fun for all the family.
Here are some top family activities to explore in Dumfries and Galloway this summer.
Theatre Royal Dumfries
Some free events are going on at The Theatre Royal Dumfries all summer long for 7-12-year-olds. There’s a Costume Design Workshop on Tuesday 19th July, a set design workshop on Tuesday 26th July and Summer Drama Intensives throughout July and August. See the website for details. There’s stuff going on for older kids too.
Galloway Forest Park
Galloway Forest Park is 300 square miles of fun summer family activities. We’re talking leisurely walks, stunning views, nature trails, mountain bike trails, a red deer range and a wild goat park. You can even follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce or have a lovely wee lochside picnic.
Sandyhills Bay
Beach lovers and beachcombers must head to Sandyhills Bay. What a gem of a place and ideal for sandcastle building, seaside paddling, picnics and walks to the nearby Rockcliffe and Kipford villages. At low tide, more sandy beach is revealed together with secluded bays. It’s got parking and a small café/shop.
Caerlaverock Castle
Fancy a spot of jousting? You can see some at Caerlaverock Castle (pictured) on July 27th. This place provides the ideal backdrop for re-enactments. Kids love exploring Caerlaverock Castle’s moated fortress, plus there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife too in the surrounding nature reserve.
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Maybe you’ll be inspired to greatness when you and the family visit the birthplace of a genius. Wander to the Burns House, where the poet lived and wrote some of his most famous works and explore the nearby Burns Mausoleum in St. Michael’s Churchyard. The museum contains over 5000 Burns artefacts including hand-written manuscripts. You can even enjoy haggis, neeps and tatties in the museum café.
Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate
At Drumlanrig Castle, a 17th-century castle set in a gorgeous estate, you’ll find an adventure playground boasting slides, swings, and climbing frames, perfect for younger children. The grounds are ideal for family picnics and leisurely walks and cycling. For fine art and antiques, how about a guided tour? Or try your hand at archery or mountain biking. The Stableyard is home to small businesses like upholstering, yoga and crafts and is well worth a walk through.
The CocoaBean Company
In Twynholm is a family-friendly chocolate factory called The CocoaBean Company. Here, kids can create their ownchocolate slabs with marshmallow treats and shaky shape animals, and learn about the chocolate-making process while indulging their creativity. There’s a café and outdoor play area ensuring fun for wee ones.
Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities
The Kirkcudbright summer festival season gets in full swing in July and August. Weekly family-friendly events that are crafty and entertaining and colourful and fun and all build to the floodlit tattoo and firework display.