Along the A75 it’s worth taking a meander into the various towns and villages, dotted not far from this main route and along some picturesque peaceful country roads. The main towns not to miss are Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbright and slightly further away, the capital town of Dumfries and Stranraer to the west, with its well- renowned annual Oyster Festival. There are also pretty harbour towns, such as Portpatrick and Whithorn, the Cradle of Christianity and picturesque towns further inland such as Dalbeattie, Newton Stewart and Gatehouse of Fleet with the Mill on the Fleet, Cally Palace Woods and Cardoness Castle.
Themed Towns of Dumfries and Galloway
Due to the main occupations of the retailers of these towns and the activities of the inhabitants, three themed towns have evolved in the region. Wigtown is the book town with its main street lined with book shops and an internationally renowned book festival running each year. Castle Douglas known as the food town with its high propensity of award-winning artisan food producers who have set up shop in the town, alongside many other independent shops and cafes. The town has a programme of foodie events that take place all-year-round. The artists’ town of Kirkcudbright with its wide streets, old high street and working harbour it is a perfect place for a stroll. There are numerous cafes and independent shops and galleries and throughout the summer months the town has a programme of events including the annual riding of the marches, weekly Scottish nights, The Tattoo, and an Art & Crafts Trail.