BELLYMACK HILL FARM
Wildlife and bird lovers won’t want to miss a visit to Bellymack Hill Farm.
Located on the Galloway Kite Trail, the farm has become a popular spot to catch the spectacular red kite, a bird of prey which has been congregating here since they were reintroduced to Galloway in 2001.
The farm’s feeding station offers visitors a first-hand experience of these sociable birds, as they swoop in to snatch the food provided for them.
The farm also offers the opportunity to catch a glimpse of other fantastic wildlife, including yellowhammer, stonechat and linnet which breed here in the summer. The occasional roe deer can also be seen grazing among pasture.
The farm is home to a number of predators, including stoat, kestrel and sparrowhawk. More regularly however, visitors will find the farmyard animals just as exciting, with puppies, goats, sheep, cattle and the odd pig or duck available to see close up.
Bellymack Hill Farm is open 12-4pm all year, with feeding time taking place at 2pm. Entry for adults is £5 whilst children go free. To find out more visit www.bellymackhillfarm.co.uk
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COLVEND GOLF CLUB
Colvend Golf Club is one of those courses that you dream about – spectacular coastal views, never crowded, easy to get to and 18 holes that are a delight to play.
The club's testing parkland layout is situated on the gorgeous Solway Coast, conveniently located on the A710 coast road between Dumfries and Dalbeattie, and amongst the holiday destinations of Southerness, Kippford, Rockcliffe and Sandyhills with their abundant range of accommodation and child friendly beaches. The course provides views over the Solway Firth to the Cumbrian Fells and, on a clear day, offers a glimpse of the Isle of Man.
The course itself is an absolute delight – with every hole offering a new and different challenge. Some holes offer water features, and tree lined fairways abound. The club is particularly proud of their large oaks and other hardwood trees, which are significant features around the course.
The par three 8th hole is one to remember, with its stone bridge crossing the meandering burn that guards the green.
For details of green fees and special offers, please see the website www.colvendgolfclub.co.uk or call the Steward at the clubhouse on 01556 630398.
Colvend will give you a golfing experience you will never forget, and you’ll want to return time and time again - a thoroughly enjoyable challenge to all standards of golfer.
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CRAWICK MULTIVERSE
A stunning cosmic art land created by world-renowned landscape artist Charles Jencks and commissioned by the Duke of Buccleuch, Crawick Multiverse offers hours of exploration in Dumfries and Galloway.
Crawick Multiverse sits on the site of a former open cast coal mine which was transformed into a spectacular 55-acre artland, visitor attraction and public amenity.
The unique attraction inspired by space, astronomy and cosmology opened in summer 2015 and has welcomed more than 19,000 visitors since its launch. As word continues to spread about the distinctive artland, Crawick Multiverse has established itself as one of the region’s must-see attractions and is popular with everyone from lovers of art and science to families, photographers and walkers.
The striking landscape of Crawick Multiverse represents various cosmic patterns and combines four ecologies – grasslands, mountains, a water gorge and a dessert. Taking visitors on a journey through galaxies, universes, comets and more, there is so much to be discovered at Crawick.
Rich with educational opportunities, the site welcomes school children, university students and groups from a range of organisations who can immerse themselves in the great outdoors and take part in an out-of-this-world educational experience amidst the galaxies of Crawick Multiverse.
You can keep track of what’s happening at Crawick Multiverse via the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/crawickmultiverse or check out @CMVerse on Twitter.
Anyone wishing to organise a group visit should call 01659 50242 or email info@crawickmultiverse.co.uk.
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CAMPBELL'S RESTAURANT
Set in a picture perfect location on the seafront of Portpatrick, Campbell’s Restaurant has long been a dining gem in the south west of Scotland.
Opened in 1998 by husband and wife duo, Robert and Diane Campbell, the restaurant has been family owned and operated from then on. With Robert sourcing the catches of the day from his own fishing boat before taking to the kitchen as head chef, only locally sourced, fresh food is served up.
With truly fresh lobsters, crab and fish, diners can expect a delicious seafood menu to choose from, fitting of the restaurant’s seafront location.
The restaurant also boasts a choice of meat dishes, sourced from local farmers whenever possible, and customers with dietary requirements are also well catered for. An excellent wine list has also been carefully crafted to compliment the food.
After building up a reputation for good food and service, Campbell’s has become a favourite with both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner six days a week (closed Mondays), and people can expect elegant decors, a warm setting and gentle background music.
To find out more or make a reservation, visit www.campbellsrestaurant.co.uk or call 01776 810314.
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THE CLACHAN INN
The Clachan Inn is an award-winning pub based in the heart of the beautiful Glenkens, South West Scotland.
Over the last few years, and under new landlords, The Clachan has established itself as a great place to eat, with a fresh and seasonally changing menu which makes the most of the local produce that the region has to offer.
Roaring log fires and regularly changing real ales and ciders, along with an extensive single malt and a growing gin selection, can all be enjoyed in the warm and friendly bar. The Clachan is proud to have recently won the CAMRA award for Pub Of The Year 2016 for the Stewartry region and a Scottish Thistle Award for the Friendliest Pub in South West Scotland 2016/17.
With the Southern Upland Way passing right past the door and boasting six en-suite rooms well equipped for walkers, cyclists, shooters and fishermen there is something for everyone. The dog & child friendly policy allows everyone who is enjoying this wonderful region to feel right at home in The Clachan Inn.
Explore the wonderfully unspoilt south-west corner of Scotland with a stay at this charming inn. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.theclachaninn.co.uk or call 01644 430241.
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BURROWHEAD HOLIDAY VILLAGE
When it’s time for a holiday to rest and recharge family-owned holiday park, Burrowhead Holiday Village, is run with families in mind.
Located in a stunning 100-acre park surrounded by the unspoilt countryside of Dumfries and Galloway, it’s an ideal scenic escape. The holiday village boats breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, overlooking the Isle of Man and the Solway Firth.
With options to camp, stay in a caravan or a luxury lodge, there’s something to suit everyone. From pitch and put, crazy golf and a putting green, to an amusement arcade, snooker room with bar and children’s soft ball area - the park has plenty to keep families entertained.
If that wasn’t enough, there’s also a heated 25 meter outdoor swimming pool, a heated indoor Jacuzzi, a toddlers splash pool and a fun slide, adding to Burrowhead’s perfect mix of fun and relaxation.
With 90 electrical hook-ups, laundry facilities, washing up facilities, a bar, cafe, restaurant, sauna, club house and guest parking, it is like a home-from-home.
To find out more about what’s on offer at Burrowhead Holiday Village or to book your stress free trip, check out www.burrowheadholidayvillage.co.uk or call 01988 500 252.
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THE STAG HOTEL
A warm welcome awaits at this family run hotel, which provides lovely home cooked lunches and evening meals. It also offers a wonderful afternoon tea and high tea, regular weekend entertainment and comfortable accommodation.
There is also a wide range of Cask Marque-rated real ales and a selection of whiskies which can be enjoyed in the lounge bar or beer garden.
Ideal stop off to explore Moffat and its surroundings or to break a long journey either from north or south. Plenty of amenities nearby including 18-hole golf course and fishery.
The hotel and inn is only an hour from Glasgow or Edinburgh and 40 minutes from Carlisle. It's really Moffat’s little gem at the top of the high street.
Website: www.staghotelmoffat.com
Facebook page: fb.me/staghotelmoffat
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THE LAIRD'S INN
THIS is a family-run traditional country pub with open fires, situated on Castle Cary Holiday Park. Home cooked meals are served daily, from Mon-Fri from 5pm-9pm and Sat-Sun from noon-9pm.
Some of the traditional home-cooked favourites include beefy lasagne, fish and chips in a crispy beer batter or golden breadcrumbs, steak pie, chicken curry, Balmoral chicken served in a whisky sauce and the popular Sunday roast, chicken fillet or roast beef with all the trimmings.
Weekend Entertainment ranges from karaoke, quizzes, bingo, pool competitions, darts, dominoes, comedians, singers, live bands - it's truly fun for all the family!
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THE PHEASANT
Voted Galloway Restaurant of the Year 2017 at the Scottish Food Awards The Pheasant offers a unique dining experience in the heart of the region. Born and bred in Naples Andrea’s cooking reflects the rich culinary heritage of southern Italy.
The welcoming and cosy atmosphere, modern rustic styled dining room and a passion for food all make a Pheasant visit a memorable one.
www.facebook.com/ThePheasantSorbie
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BLACKADDIE COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL
THE four star Blackaddie House Hotel, a great place to relax and stay overnight or of course longer. One of the best four star hotels near Dumfries, Blackaddie is situated on the banks of the stunning River Nith in South West Scotland.
This country house hotel is more than just an idyllic and romantic place to stay, it’s a ‘foodies’ haven set amongst some breath-taking scenery. From the moment you turn onto the private driveway of this 16th Century Country House you can tell you are somewhere very special.
But it’s the passion for delicious food coupled with the relaxed style of service and super friendly staff that set this enchanting country retreat apart from any other destination.
The genuine desire to deliver the very best in Scottish food, served professionally in a friendly atmosphere has contributed towards building an outstanding international reputation and in gaining many accolades and awards.
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HENRYS BAY HOUSE
Nestled in the West Coast town of Stranraer overlooking the picturesque Loch Ryan where you can watch the ferries going to and from Northern Ireland and Cairnryan Port.
Henrys Bay House Restaurant boasts the finest sun terrace for alfresco dining and views to be inspired by.
The menu features locally sourced fish and meat prepared and cooked freshly to order by local chef/restauranteur John Henry.
The comfortable and stylish restaurant and bar are managed by his wife Jane and her team of attentive, welcoming staff.
D&G Life Restaurant of the year winner and "Best restaurant experience" finalist for the West of Scotland in The Thistle Awards.
Website: henrysbayhouse.co.uk
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