Around and About:

Dumfries and Galloway covers an area of some 2,457 square miles, and has a population of only 147,000 people. There are many different kinds of scenery - high hills, glens, woodlands, rivers, lochs and some 200 miles of coastline with many fine sandy beaches.

The region has a long and colourful history, is rich in archaeological sites, and has associations with many famous historic and literary figures. Within the region, the quiet country roads offer unhurried touring opportunities.The Dumfries and Galloway Tourist Guide lists 115 places of special interest. Included are the early Christian 'Whithorn Excavations', Priory and Museum' - the site of the first Christian church in Scotland; Sweetheart Abbey, nineteen castles, including Drumlanrig, the home of The Duke of Buccleuch; and eight gardens including the National Trust Garden at Threave, Castle Douglas.

There are a number of bird sanctuaries, 'open' farms, countryside parks and forest walks, plus many museums, craft workshops, galleries and other attractions. Robert Burns spent the last years of his life in Dumfries. He is buried in St Michael's churchyard in the town and the Burns centre beside the River Nith in Dumfries is worth visiting.

Visitors to Galloway are assured of a warm welcome - as one of the most remarked-upon attractions of the area is the friendliness of the local people.