Coorie Cottage is well situated for both those who want to relax and enjoy what the local area has to offer or for those who want to explore a little further afield in Dumfries and Galloway and Ayreshire. We have listed a few places that are worth visiting but there are many more. If you would like ideas or information about what is available then just send us a message and we will happily guide you.
The Galloway Forest is the largest forest in the UK. There are currently 2 visitor centres offering walks, cycling and cafes. A short drive from Coorie Cottage is the wild goat and red deer ranges where you can see them close up. Remember to take a bag of carrots to feed them! Aslo close to the cottage is Raiders Road which is a forest drive and you can stop at Otters Pools for a picnic. For more information on what Galloway Forest Park has below click the link below.
At Drumlanrig Castle and Gardens there is something fore everyone. You can take a tour of the magnificent Pink Palace. Wander round the stunning Victorian Gardens or even take a guided Garden Tour. For kids there is and exciting woodland adventure playground. There are also wonderful waymarked walks and family-friendly mountain bike trails over the estate. Drumlanrig is a scenic 40 minute drive from Coorie Cottage.
As well as Dumfries there are a number of quaint towns in Dumfries and Galloway which are within reach from Coorie Cottage. Kirkcudbright, known as the Artists town is home to many artists studios that you are welcome to browse. It is also a harbour town. Castle Douglas is known as the Food Town and is home to many independent food related shops. Whilst Wigtown is known as the book town and is the home to many independent book shops. All are worth a visit.
A great experience to see the magnificent Red Kites feeding close up at the feeding station at Laurieston only about 15 minutes from Coorie Cottage.
For more information visit:
Culzean Castle is a great day out for all the family. It is also a National Trust property so if you are a member remember to bring your membership card. Explore the Castle, walk in the grounds and walled garden. Let the kids go wild in the adventure playground and indulge in an icecream from the parlour with so many flavours to choose from! There is also a beach to explore so something for everyone.
For more information visit:
Dumfries House is part of the Kings Foundation and is actually situated near Ayr but still very reachable from the Cottage for a day out. King Charles has been heavily involved in making Dumfries House what it is today. It has an enviable collection of Chippendale Furniture and wonderful grounds to explore.
For more information visit:
Another National Trust for Scotland property so remember your membership card. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautiful gardens and nature reserve. This is 20 minutes from Coorie Cottage.
For more information visit:
Threave Garden & Nature Reserve | National Trust for Scotland
Learn about Robert Burns, the famous Scottish Bard while staying at Coorie Cottage. Visit Ellisland Farm, where he lived and the Robert Burns Centre in Dumfries. Both are part of the footprints of Burns Trail in and around Dumfries.
For more information visit:
Robert Burns Ellisland Museum & Farm | Dumfries
In the Footsteps of Burns | Robert Burns’ life in and around Dumfries
Galloway has many stunning beaches, some sandy and some stony and rocky. Many are in relatively easy reach from the cottage if you fancy a day at the beach. There is a useful beach guide to help you chose which beach to head off to.