Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland’s southernmost gem, stretches from rolling green hills to a rugged coastline dotted with sandy beaches and fishing villages. Known for its artistic towns, ancient castles, and wildlife-rich landscapes, it’s a region full of character and charm. Stay in a boutique hideaway in Kirkcudbright, a family hotel steps from Southerness’ golden sands, or a luxury retreat with estuary views near Dumfries. From cosy countryside inns to budget B&Bs, every traveller finds their perfect base here.

Dumfries and Galloway is a place where history and nature meet at every turn, whether you’re wandering through the moat-ringed Caerlaverock Castle, delving into the tales of the Black Douglas clan at Threave Castle, or watching red kites soar above the Glenkens. Walkers are spoiled with everything from gentle lochside strolls at Loch Ken to rugged trails in the Galloway Forest or along the Mull of Galloway, where you might even spot rare Natterjack toads. The surrounding hills—Moffat, Lowther, Carsphairn and Scaur—offer climbs with sweeping views, while long-distance adventurers can take on the Southern Upland Way or the Annandale Way. With countryside stays that often open straight onto trails—and many welcoming four-legged companions—it’s the kind of place where stretching your legs feels as natural as stepping back in time.

The Best Places to Stay in Dumfries and Galloway

For a Memorable Stay

• Once a hunting lodge, Knockinaam Lodge now offers boutique charm where Churchill and Eisenhower once stayed, savouring the same wild Scottish coastline views beside a roaring fire. Today, its 3 AA Rosettes ensure dining is as legendary as the history.

For a Countryside Escape

• Chipperkyle- This intimate country escape, set on a 200-acre farm near Castle Douglas, offers just two charming rooms with rural views and plush bathrooms. With tranquil gardens, cosy shared spaces, and superb walking and birdwatching nearby, it’s a peaceful nature-lover’s haven.
• Cavens House is a gleaming white country mansion turned six-room hotel, overlooking hills and the Solway Coast. Individually styled rooms, ground-floor options for easy access, and fireside lounges set the tone before a superb dinner (served before eight). A perfect base for local adventures.

For Families

• Trigony House Hotel, once Closeburn Castle’s shooting lodge, is now a 10-room retreat with pretty gardens and a thriving vegetable patch fuelling its restaurant. Rustic-elegant interiors, outdoor adventures from falconry to mountain biking, and a warm welcome for children and dogs, make it a Borders gem.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Glasgow Airport is probably the most convenient airport to use if you’re travelling to Dumfries and Galloway. It has train and bus links to many parts of the region. Edinburgh International Airport is also worth considering, though it’s on Scotland’s opposite coastline. If you’re travelling via London, you can catch the train to Dumfries, via Carlisle, which takes about four hours.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Scotland’s unpredictable weather is well known, and the Dumfries and Galloway region is subject to all the usual recommendations about packing wet weather gear at all times. The up-side is that during the summer months, many Scottish destinations enjoy long days with plenty of light — June, July and August are the lightest months. The Dumfries and Galloway cultural calendar is well filled out, but the most popular events are the Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival, held in May; the Spring Fling Open Studios event, also held in May; and the Wigtown Book Festival, held in late September.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands
• Consider other west coast favourites and check out the best places to stay on the Isle of Islay or Arran
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.