You can study the exhibits at Dumfries Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Dumfries. Amble around the area's forests or experience its entertainment choices.
Visit the Robert Burns House where Scotland's national poet spent his final years and explore his original manuscripts. Wander through the medieval ruins of Sweetheart Abbey in nearby New Abbey, where a devoted widow built a monument to eternal love.
Discover scenic beauty and rich history in Dumfries, Scotland
Dumfries, a charming town in Scotland, offers a multitude of attractions for tourists. History buffs can immer a wander through ancient castles and visit fascinating museums. The friendly locals make it a delightful place to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, hiking, and biking in the picturesque countryside retreat. A trip to Galloway Forest, a scenic forest park, is a must for nature lovers. With its vibrant theater scene and entertainment options, Dumfries promises a memorable holiday experience. And don't forget to explore other stunning destinations around Scotland during your visit.
Top reasons to visit Dumfries
Outdoor Adventures: Dumfries offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from exploring national parks to enjoying ice skating and arcade zones, perfect for families.
Historical Charm: Discover the rich history through its castles and monuments, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Stunning Countryside: The picturesque views surrounding Dumfries provide a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and exploration.
Welcoming Accommodation: A variety of lodgings cater to all preferences, including pet-friendly and accessible options.
Friendly Locals: Experience warm hospitality from the locals, enhancing your visit to this enchanting town.
Find your hotel in Dumfries
When it comes to accommodation in Dumfries, you'll be spoilt for choice. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hotel or a luxury retreat, Dumfries has it all.
Holiday Inn Dumfries, an IHG Hotel - This 3.0-star hotel is perfect for those looking for a wedding venue. It also offers amenities such as a sofabed, hiking, golfing, and connecting rooms. With its historical charm and friendly staff, it's a popular choice for tourists. Located in an urban area, it's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying biking opportunities.
Hetland Hall Hotel - This 4.0-star hotel offers a countryside setting and a bar for a relaxing experience. With friendly staff and beautiful gardens, it provides a peaceful atmosphere. It's also close to cultural attractions and natural parks, making it a great choice for nature lovers.
Rivendell - If you're looking for a guesthouse experience, Rivendell is the perfect choice. With its 4.0-star rating, it offers amenities such as smoking rooms, free breakfast, and free parking. The friendly staff and dining options make it a popular choice among visitors. Plus, with free WiFi and internet access, you can stay connected during your stay.
With its diverse range of hotels, Dumfries offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just want to relax, Dumfries has it all. Book your hotel in Dumfries and experience the charm and beauty of this Scottish town.
Where to stay in and around Dumfries
Dumfries offers an enchanting blend of historical charm and stunning countryside, perfect for outdoor adventures and family getaways. Explore its alluring quarters, where friendly locals welcome you to relax and indulge in the captivating scenery. With a range of accommodation options, you can easily immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere while enjoying excursions to nearby attractions. The beautiful countryside views surrounding Dumfries are sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveller.
Lockerbie: Nestled 17.7km from Dumfries, Lockerbie is a charming town known for its stunning outdoor experiences and scenic landscapes. The area is popular among travellers seeking adventure, with a variety of recreational areas, hiking trails, and golf courses to explore. Visitors can enjoy local landmarks such as parks, a historic castle, and picturesque lakes. The atmosphere here is welcoming, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities, particularly in the peak months of April, July, and September.
Southerness: Located conveniently within the Dumfries area, Southerness is a delightful village that attracts families and adventure seekers alike. With its moderately seasonal visitor trends, the village comes alive particularly in April and from June to July. Southerness offers an array of outdoor activities, including an arcade adventure zone and scenic hiking trails. Notable attractions include a beautiful beach, a historic castle, and expansive parks, making it a perfect destination for family outings and leisurely strolls along the coast.
Lochmaben: Just 12.9km from Dumfries, Lochmaben is a small city that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and adventurous spirit. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring recreational areas and golf courses that are ideal for a day of fun. Local attractions include serene parks, stunning lakes, and the nearby national state park, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Peak visitor months mirror those of Lockerbie, particularly in April, July, and September, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere for all who visit.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Dumfries
Dumfries is a charming town in Scotland, known for its historical attractions, including castles, museums, and theaters. You can also enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and biking in this picturesque location. The friendly people and lively entertainment scene add to the vibrant atmosphere of Dumfries, making it an ideal destination for a cheap holiday.
Dumfries Ice Bowl: Experience the thrill of ice skating in this historical venue, which also offers fishing, museums, and entertainment.
Dalscone Farm Fun: Have a blast at this arcade adventure zone, where you can enjoy historical exhibits, entertainment, and friendly people.
Caerlaverock Castle: Explore the grandeur of this castle, surrounded by beautiful landscapes for fishing, hiking, and biking.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Dumfries
Dumfries offers a range of affordable accommodation options for budget-conscious travelers. Use the search filters on the Expedia website to find cheap hotels, hostels, or B&Bs that suit your needs.
Take advantage of the Rewards program on Expedia to earn points and save even more on your hotel bookings in Dumfries.
Explore the historical sites and castles in Dumfries, such as Dumfries Castle and Drumlanrig Castle, which offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.
Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lochs surrounding Dumfries, a popular activity among locals and tourists alike.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the museums in Dumfries, such as the Dumfries Museum and the Robert Burns Centre, showcasing the town's art, history, and literature.
Experience the vibrant entertainment scene in Dumfries, with various theaters and venues offering live performances and events throughout the year.
Engage with the friendly people of Dumfries, known for their warm hospitality and willingness to help visitors explore the town.
Discover the scenic beauty of Dumfries through hiking trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside and coastline.
Take advantage of the numerous recreational activities available in Dumfries, including golf, cycling, and watersports, ensuring an active and enjoyable stay.
Explore the local theater scene in Dumfries, with venues like the Theatre Royal Dumfries offering a diverse range of performances and cultural experiences.
Save on travel expenses by considering biking as a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation around Dumfries, with bicycle rental options available in town.
Discover the flavours of Dumfries
Experience the highlights of Dumfries' local cuisine and indulge in unique dishes that showcase the region's culinary prowess. From quaint cafes to elegant restaurants, Dumfries offers a diverse dining experience for every taste.
For a romantic evening, book a dinner at The Hitching Post, a charming North American restaurant that serves up mouthwatering dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Alternatively, Bruno's offers a taste of Europe with their delectable menu and elegant ambiance.
Best time to go to Dumfries
Dumfries boasts a year-around average temperature of 8.4°C, peaking at 14.2°C in July, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 3.4°C in January, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 58.5mm annually, with August seeing the heaviest showers and April being the driest month.
Month
Temperature (Celcius)
Rainfall (mm)
January
3.4
65.0
February
3.5
45.5
March
4.8
43.7
April
7.0
40.4
May
9.6
53.3
June
12.6
47.5
July
14.2
72.4
August
14.1
75.9
September
12.1
63.0
October
9.1
73.4
November
6.2
63.8
December
4.3
57.7
The nearest major airports for your trip to Dumfries
When planning your trip to Dumfries, you can choose from several major airports. Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 99.8km away, has nearby hotels such as the 5.5-star Crescent House and the luxurious Balmoral Hotel, both 11.3km from the airport. Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is 103.0km from Dumfries, with accommodations like the 5-star Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, just 6.4km away. Alternatively, Prestwick Airport (PIK), 80.5km from Dumfries, offers the 5-star Marine Troon and Lochgreen House Hotel, both 3.2km away. Each hotel provides convenient access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth start to your holiday.
The Dumfries info point: What you need to know
Category
Details
Location
Dumfries, Scotland, United Kingdom
Main attractions
Caerlaverock Castle, Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura, Robert Burns Centre
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Dumfries has to offer?
1-bed Luxury Studio Apartment Cockermouth: This holiday home rental outside Dumfries is equipped with a private garden, free WiFi and a TV to help you feel comfortable during your stay. Kitchen amenities include a fridge, a stovetop and a microwave. See all vacation rentals in Dumfries.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Dumfries, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of hotel bookings are fully refundable provided that you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If your reservation is non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Dumfries.
What is the favourite LGBTQ-friendly hotel in Dumfries?
What's the best place to stay if I'm looking to play golf in Dumfries?
Bluebell Bank is a top B&B that has a golf course and features free WiFi. You can tee off at Dumfries and Galloway Golf Club or Dumfries and County Golf Club while you're in town. See more golf hotels in Dumfries.
What's the best accommodation in Dumfries to learn about local history?
Based on our travel expertise, Friars Carse Country House Hotel is a top historic hotel bookable on Expedia and it features free Wi-Fi. Also, notable landmarks to visit include Sweetheart Abbey, Caerlaverock Castle and Old Bridge House. See more options for historical stays in Dumfries.
How is it staying in Dumfries?
History buffs enjoy visiting Dumfries, although all visitors will definitely find something to appreciate. Tourists can also enjoy the city's museums, entertainment choices and theatres. In Dumfries, there are 245 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Dumfries.
If you want to explore the larger area, hop on a train at Dumfries Station. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Dumfries for your journey.
What's the weather like in Dumfries?
The hottest months are usually July and August, with an average temperature of 13°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 4°C. Average annual precipitation for Dumfries is 1251 mm.
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