Glorious Galloway

Arty Crafties

Visit Kirkcudbright — "the artists town" — and find out about its historical connection to "the Glasgow Boys" and Jessie M King. Hop along to the Fleet Gallery in nearby Gatehouse of Fleet to purchase a local product made by an individual craftsperson or small family-run firm. Pop across to the year-round programme of shows and productions at Stranraer’s Ryan Centre Theatre. Come to the Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival between 27th May and 4th June or the Spring Fling of artists and craftmakers across the region between 28th and 30th May, where you can simply watch and enjoy or "have a go" yourself. The options are endless.

Past and Presentation

" Wherever you go in Dumfries and Galloway you’re tracing the footsteps of historic characters, in places which saw the course of Scottish history transformed. Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, the Black Douglas, St Ninian, the Wigtown Martyrs and the romantic story of the Lady of Galloway and her sweetheart."
Source: Dumfries and Galloway see and do 2005

We could not put it better ourselves. Glorious Galloway is a treasure trove of Scottish heritage, examples including:

• the wonderfully romantic Sweetheart Abbey at New Abbey
• the Story of Ninian, Scotland’s first Saint, at Whithorn in the Machers of Galloway;
• and Glenluce Abbey, which was visited by Robert the Bruce and James IV as well as Mary Queen of Scots — but not all at the same time!

Alternatively, look for the wonderful presentation of nature in Galloway’s many different types of garden. The landscaped features of Castle Kennedy Gardens; the Woodland Garden at Dunskey where you can also enjoy an interesting eating experience; the Logan Botanic Garden which includes the bizarre as well as the beautiful. Or bring past and presentation together with a visit to Threave Gardens and House at Castle Douglas.

Attractions, and Attractors

Dumfries and Glorious Galloway has its share of visitor attractions. You can pan for gold at the Museum of Lead Mining at Wanlockhead. Sample the best smoked fayre at the Marrbury Smokehouse near Bargrennan, famed for its luxurious gourmet foods. Visit the National Museum of Costume at Shambellie House in New Abbey. Or drive a tank (yes, a real one) at Galloway Tanks near Whithorn.

Glorious Galloway, however, is also full of natural attractors of visitors. The people who live here could not be more friendly and we have lots of really nice places in which to spend a day or even more. Little seaside towns, such as Portpatrick and Isle of Whithorn, that are truly attractive. The bustling Newton Stewart or, if you prefer, laid-back Gatehouse of Fleet. Or if you want to spread your wings, take a day-trip to Belfast from nearby Stranraer. We know you'll enjoy yourself but that you will also want to return to Glorious Galloway — a place of attractions and real attractors as far as our visitors are concerned.

Boots and Pedals

Glorious Galloway — and Dumfriesshire — are made for walking and cycling. The region is crisscrossed with walking routes and cycling trails that suit all abilities, tastes and ages.

For starters, we have the 212 mile Southern Upland Way which is 21 years old this year. Why not come to the party! Or if you prefer your walking by way of festival, you have plenty to choose from: walk through forests — with or without the help of rangers; walk along the coastline, there is more than enough to choose from; or simply enjoy our countryside or walk around the village of your choice — but leave enough time to enjoy the local’s hospitality and their "chat".

If you prefer, enjoy all these delights by bicycle. After all, this would be quite fitting, given that the bicycle was invented in our region by a native son (Kirkpatrick McMillan) in 1840. Today we have an equally impressive claim to fame. We have the imaginative 7 stanes project, which is heaven on wheels to those who enjoy pedal power. If you are brave enough you can try "The Twister" or "Heartbreak Hill"; or you can be normal and enjoy the massive cycling product that our rich and varied landscape provides for walkers and cyclists alike.

An Eventful Place

Events are great fun. A fantastic way to meet people and enjoy what Glorious Galloway has to offer. Whilst meeting local people and tasting local food can be an event in itself, we’ve put together a calendar of more formal gatherings that might appeal to our visitors’ tastes.

• June: Klrkcudbright Jazz Festival
  A celebration of classic New Orleans, Dixieland and Swing Jazz in the picturesque harbour and artists’ town of Kirkcudbright.
• September: Creetown Country Weekend
  Scotland’s No.1 Country Music Festival, with up to 20 bands taking part throughout the three-day programme. There is something for everyone, including shootouts, street fair and a retail village.
• August-October: Gaelforce
  The big one. Dumfries and Galloway Council’s high profile arts and entertainment programme, with exhibitions, drama, dance, music and children’s events. There is something to interest all the family, with events throughout the region.

Whatever you are looking for it can be found in Glorious Galloway. And after an exhilarating day out, what better than to return "home" to Auchenlarie Holiday Park.

Auchenlarie’s Views and Venues

Auchenlarie Holiday Park prides itself on its friendliness and family atmosphere. This is in no small measure due to the people who work here and those who choose to visit this picturesque spot in South West Scotland - but it is also due to the unique features of the Park itself.

Sitting on the side of land that slopes towards the sea, all the holiday homes have excellent views of the wonderful scenery that surrounds Auchenlarie. You and your family and friends can sit on your own veranda — perhaps sipping a chilled wine — and take in the beauty of nature on one of the many sunny days that the area enjoys. Or you can enjoy an Auchenlarie barbecue, whilst your children have fun in the play park close to the bar and dining area.

Auchenlarie Holiday Park also has a range of indoor facilities. As well as three bars and on-site catering (including take-away), regular entertainment programmes are provided. We also have our own on-site gym and a large multi-purpose recreational hall. Here you can try badminton, indoor bowling, head tennis and even karaoke evenings, or you can enjoy yourself in the nearby games room. Alternatively you can swim in our popular indoor pool, or simply relax in the sauna.

Whatever you want we will do our best to provide it. We can promise you wonderful views and a variety of welcoming venues. If you want to find out more about them why not log onto www.visitdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk where you will also find plenty of other website links that will help you to plan your Auchenlarie Holiday.