Castle Douglas

Castle Douglas, in the Stewartry is framed at its southern end by the stunning Threave Gardens, Carlingwark Loch and Threave Castle, and is one of Dumfries & Galloway’s must-see towns. Increasingly known as Castle Douglas Food Town, CD (as it’s affectionately known) is a perfect base from which to explore Galloway's countryside, including Loch Ken, the Galloway Forest Park and the Solway Coast.

Castle Douglas is one of Dumfries & Galloway’s main shopping towns, specialising in traditional and speciality food shopping, which has given rise to its new identity as Castle Douglas Food Town. The shopping experience is further enhanced by a main street almost entirely consisting of independent retailers passionate about their goods and their welcome.

Whatever interests you enjoy Castle Douglas has accommodation and activity providers that share your passions! There are several hotels offering specialised services for golfers, walkers and cyclists. So whether you want an early breakfast to meet a dawn tee-time, a packed lunch to sustain you across the hills or secure storage for your bike after traversing the nearby 7stanes mountain biking trails, Castle Douglas offers lots of accommodation that anticipates your needs.

Castle Douglas has much to offer those who prefer more a more sedate break. The NTS attraction, Threave Gardens, is a riot of colour and a must-visit at any time of year. The story of Threave Castle, cared for by Historic Scotland, is entwined with that of Robert the Bruce and the fight for Scottish independence, and today the castle remains enjoyably inaccessible. To visit you must ring for a boatman who will ferry you across a short trip to the island in the middle of the river Dee, just south of Castle Douglas.

For a family day out Carlingwark Loch at the southern end of Castle Douglas offers boating during the summer months, and the surrounding park is perfect for picnics. Heading north Loch Ken provides lots of opportunities for messing about on the water, with several watersports providers and outstanding fishing. While the quiet paths and roads leading to small villages that surround this popular market town are well worth exploring on foot or cycle.

Enjoy hours of fun discovering reasons why Castle Douglas is one of Southern Scotland’s most popular places. Take a trip here and we’re sure it will soon become your home from home, and before you know, you too will be calling it CD just like the locals!