Dumfries and Galloway: Local, Characterful Guides to Britain's Special Places

Written by resident experts, this new, thoroughly updated second edition of Bradt's Dumfries and Galloway remains the only full-blown guide to this increasingly popular southwest corner of Scotland. Lively descriptions, historical anecdotes and enthusiastic writing combine with hand-picked accommodation recommendations to reveal one of Scotland's best kept secrets. New attractions and features covered in this edition include Kirkcudbright Galleries, an increased focus on wildlife and birdwatching, and a round-up of the many distilleries and breweries in the region. Specialist contributions cover everything from smoking fish and meat to creating a Himalayan garden in the hills of the Southern Uplands, conservation along the Solway coast, and the sport of curling. There are also new walks and a range of hotels and restaurants not previously included.John Paul Jones, the 'Father of the United States Navy', was born in the region and his restored cottage is open to the public, while astronaut Neil Armstrong came to explore his connections at the Clan Armstrong Museum. The region is also home to the American sport of pickleball, in the town of Lockerbie, while the main town, Dumfries, had strong shipping links with North America in the 18th century. And it was from the banks of the river south of Dumfries that many thousands left for the New World. Dumfries and Galloway is an area of grand views, peace and isolation, bustling harbourside towns, craft shops and galleries, cafes and restaurants, mountains and coast, wildlife and outdoor pursuits... Even the weather can defy expectation, for the far west is warmed by the Gulf Stream. You can be at Scotland's highest village in the morning, on a deserted sandy beach in the afternoon, and in Europe's first Dark Sky Park, gazing at the stars, in the evening. And the region is also home to Scotland's 'big five' iconic species: golden eagle, red squirrel, harbour seal, red deer and European otter. No matter your interest, Bradt's Dumfries and Galloway is an ideal companion for a successful trip.