Scaurbrae Cottage ref: 537105

About the local area

The Twelve Apostles Stone Circle is just down the road and is the largest stone circle on mainland Scotland.       Despite the name, only eleven stones remain. Close by is a walk with a difference, set around a sculpture park affording lovely views of Glenkiln Reservoir. There are pieces by Rodin, Henry Moore and Sir Jacob Epstein, collected since 1951 by the local landowner Sir William Keswick and placed in a completely natural environment.
The lovely little town of Thornill with its wide streets lined with 100-year-old lime trees was developed in the 18th century as an estate village for Drumlanrig Castle, home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry.   The castle is a fine example of 17th century renaissance architecture.  Savour the flavours of Castle Douglas, known locally as the ‘Food Town’, with its lovely choice of shops and visit Threave Castle where the custodian rows visitors across to the island amongst the swans. The picturesque Artists’ Town of Kirkcudbright is well worth a visit. Here you can watch the fishermen unload their catch; explore the wynds and ancient Tollbooth on the historic High Street. During the year there is a huge programme of events from Spring Fling where local artists’ open their studios to music festivals, exhibitions and local traditions. The annual Riding of The Marches is an exciting event and the brolly parade at Kirkcudbright’s jazz festival is a colourful extravaganza. The Galloway Forest Park, now officially classified as one of the very few places left in the world where it is possible to see a clear night sky, is the largest in the UK and is affectionately known as the ‘highlands of the lowlands’ and boasts three hundred square miles of wild beauty just waiting to be explored. The walking in this area is second to none. Visitors are strongly advised to bring their walking boots and discover some of the finest walks like the Merrick which rises above Loch Trool and the Rhins of Kells, a stunning ridge walk.  The county is also home to some of the best mountain biking on offer, five of the seven internationally regarded 7Stanes biking venues are located within an easy drive.  For those mere mortals who prefer to feel the comfort of solid ground beneath their feet, the venues also extend a warm welcome to walkers!
The Cairn Water is on the doorstep and fishing permits can be arranged. Sea fishing in the area is also of the highest quality. Golfers are also well catered for with a range of courses on offer including the championship standard course at Southerness.

Things to do nearby