Dumfries & Galloway encompasses the whole of Scotland in miniature. It is an area abundant with variety in its inspirational contrasting landscape, picturesque villages, sporting pursuits, beautiful forests and history, making enjoyment of the outdoors a pleasure whatever the weather. The region has a low population density, and tourism makes a significant contribution to the local economy. The largest town is Dumfries where many of the main visitor attractions are linked with Robert Burns who lived in the town from 1791 until his death in 1796; the two other main towns are Stranraer to the west and Annan to the east.

Lying in south-west Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway has over 200 miles of one of the most remarkably varied coastlines in the UK with dramatic craggy outcrops, crashing waves and long sandy beaches. On a clear day, you can see Ireland, England, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. If it is not clear, linger a couple of hours and you may well experience all four seasons: where the Solway meets the sea the weather may change in an instant. In winter, over 40,000 wildfowl and 83,000 waders make Dumfries & Galloway an ornithologist’s paradise.

Dumfries & Galloway possesses some of the loveliest gardens in Scotland. Due to the mild oceanic climate and being less exposed to strong winds and hard frosts than areas further north, the area is ideal for growing rhododendrons and azaleas, as well as a diverse range of other plants from many different parts of the world.

Uncultivated parts of the region offer a different kind of beauty. Grey Mare’s Tail, for example, in the Moffat Hills is a hanging valley waterfall: the valley was scoured out by glaciers during the last ice age leaving the outlet burn from Loch Skene falling about 300 feet down a sheer and dangerous cliff face. The 300 square mile Galloway Forest Park, Britain's largest, covers about 25 per cent of the region. It is full of wildlife, with a red deer range, wild goat park and red squirrel feeding stations. Birds of prey also make the forest their home, with buzzards a common sight, golden eagles and rare red kites, successfully introduced to the region in 2001.

The stimulating landscape and wonderful light of Dumfries & Galloway have attracted artists for centuries. Many currently live and work here, mostly in and around the delightful harbour town of Kirkcudbright. The influence of this artistic heritage has spread throughout the region and in almost every town at any time of the year you'll find workshops or studios to visit, galleries and exhibitions to view and souvenirs to take home.

Dumfries & Galloway is a region steeped in history. Historic sites abound, and many people have left their mark here, including Mary Queen of Scots at Dundrennan Abbey and Robert the Bruce at Lochmaben Castle and his elusive cave. History of all kinds is recorded and displayed in the many museums and visitor centres in towns across the region. Many other subjects are specifically covered: the David Coulthard Museum, for example, houses a large collection of racing memorabilia, and the origins of Scottish Christianity are exhibited at Whithorn. It would not do to leave the region without reference to Gretna Green and its history of runaway couples at the old blacksmith’s shop. You may still marry there, without eloping, but it will cost you more!