Hugged by the rolling Galloway hills, dramatic ancient woodland and patchwork fields, Castle Douglas is an 18th century market town in Dumfries and Galloway. Located a few miles north east of Kirkcudbright, Castle Douglas sits on the shore of Carlingwark Loch – a small freshwater loch that is popular with fishermen, walkers and bird watchers – and is the only designated ‘food town’ in Scotland. Bringing together an array of independent shops selling delicious local produce, Castle Douglas has a thriving foodie scene. Counting ice cream, chocolate and toffee shops alongside local butchers, fishmongers and numerous delis there’s plenty to keep travelling gastronomes happily satiated.
Nearby Threave Gardens is where the National Trust gardeners are trained. Located at the far end of the loch, it isn’t to be confused with Threave Castle: a 13th century fortress which stands on an island in the River Dee. Reached by ferry it was once home to the Black Douglases and is well worth a visit. Budding birdwatchers or keen ornithologists shouldn’t miss a visit to the close by Threave Wildfowl Reserve or to the red kite feeding station at Laurieston, where you can get up close to the magnificent birds.
For the more adventurous, there’s heaps to do at Loch Ken including wild swimming, windsurfing, canoeing and sailing, while the surrounding hills and countryside are laced with wonderful walking and cycling trails. Or, if a beach day is more up your street, head to the Solway Firth coast and the pretty sandy beaches at Rockcliffe, Sandyhills or Powillimount.
Whether you’re keen to wake up in nature, or you’re after an action-packed escape with the whole family, our holiday cottages in Dumfries and Galloway offer the perfect escape.
Discover our Castle Douglas holiday cottages below.