Set in stunning countryside, Kirkcudbright, pronounced kir-coo-bree, is a vibrant harbour town about 15 minutes away from Galloway View. It has an extensive calendar of events throughout the year and is a great shopping town, with lots of small independent shops to explore.
Attractions
The Dark Space Planetarium is a great family-friendly attraction with plenty of interactive activities for all ages and a fantastic dome planetarium in which you can truly explore space. Located in the same building as the Planetarium is the Dark Art Gin Distillery where you can take a tour and see how they make their gins and try some whilst you're there too. Both host events so check their websites for more.
Maclellans Castle is one of the towns most prominent features, located in the centre of the town and acting as the backdrop for many of the events that occur. Entry is limited to the gardens and shop at the moment, but will hopefully be fully accessible by the end of the summer. Even if you don't go in, it's lovely to see from the outside.
It's also worthwhile popping across the road and taking a look at Greyfriars Church to see the stunning glasswork in the windows and the memorial to Sir Thomas and Lady Grissel MacLellan. Kirkcudbright has a great little museum, which is well worth exploring and is great for a rainy day. The Stewartry Museum is packed with things to see.
Kirkcudbright is known as 'The Artists Town' due to it's rich art history. Many of the countries’ finest artists past and present have chosen to stay in the town, in part due to its stunning surroundings and special quality of the light. As a result there are many art galleries to explore during your stay. The Kirkcudbright Galleries is the largest, and is a gallery of national significance, with a combination of local artists and national exhibitions, as well as events.
Other galleries worth visiting are The Tolbooth Gallery, which was once a prison. Broughton House and Garden is packed with art and has a beautiful large garden to explore. There are also The Whitehouse Gallery and Harbour Cottage Gallery, as well as a few other galleries and studios to explore if you take a walk around the lovely old High Street. A great way to explore all the art that Kirkcudbright has to offer is by following the Kirkcudbright Art Map
Calendar of events
No matter what time of year you plan on visiting the town, there is an all year calendar of events which includes something for everyone. The bustling Farmer's Market is on once a month from March to November, culminating in a Food Festival. There are Scottish Nights throughout the summer, the Riding of the Marches and Country Fair in July, and the spectacular Tattoo and Fireworks display at the end of August, once the culmination of the festivities for the year. There are kite festivals, plant fairs, car boot sales, vintage fairs, car rallies, a parade, an Arts and Crafts Trail, a light festival and that's just the beginning! The town's website lists all the events so that you can plan what's on during your stay.
Independent Shops
Kirkcudbright's independent shops continue to thrive, very much in contrast to many high streets throughout the UK. Take a look in Brambles Deli to pick up some tasty treats such as olives, a wide selection of cheeses and Mediterranean specialities, as well as freshly baked goodies. With an abundance of gift shops, you'll be able to treat yourself or bring home some lovely gifts, from all of the following: Rhubarb, Willow, The Antiques Shop, Tolbooth Crafts, Banks and Braes and the PA Pop Up Shop. If you're looking for great quality jackets and walking gear, W.M. Laws is worth a visit and there are a few good clothing shops in the town too!
Food & Drink
There is no lack of great places to eat and drink in the town. For lunch there are a number of cafe's to try. Feast offer a predominantly vegetarian, Mediterranean menu such as hummus and shakshuka, great baking, fresh salads and flatbreads. The Belfry and Clann are both located in the centre of the town, both offering a range of great specials, fresh baking, great kids options, a friendly service and are open on Sundays. (Latte and freshly baked scones from The Belfry are pictured).
The Selkirk Arms is a reliably great evening choice, with the option to eat in their dining room or the more informal, and our our opinion, better atmosphere of the bar. You can choose from burger and fish and chips to more formal dining options and they're great for local seafood specials.
A great alternative for dinner is the Auld Alliance Restaurant. Focussing on French cuisine with Scottish ingredients and a Scottish twist, this lovely little restaurant serves delicious food with great customer service.
The area surrounding Kirkcudbright is packed with stunning coastline and beaches, great walks and incredible views, all of which are well worth exploring.
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