Dog-friendly Hotels Dumfries and Galloway

"Idyllically set on a 3000-acre estate..."
Enjoying an idyllic situation on the 3000-acre Crofts Estate, surrounded by the Galloway Hills, these holiday cottages have enviable, dramatic views towards the Solway Firth and Cumbrian Hills beyond. Accessed along a private drive, and adjoining a cluster of well-maintained estate buildings, Stable Cottage (ref UUD) makes a romantic hideaway for two, offering stylishly furnished accommodation – its walls adorned with the original work of various Scottish artists. The larger Victorian detached Gardener’s Cottage (ref UXT) has been elegantly furnished, and features an attractive shared garden with a bridge over a burn and a small waterfall. Arkland Mill (ref STTZ) stands detached with a lovely large garden, a summerhouse and its own bridge over the stream. Marwhin House (SWWR) and Marwhin Cottage (ref SWWS) also stand detached, situated within 25 yards of each other, still with there own privacy, the latter two properties being set in gardens with a delightful stream and pond. Woodland walks and hillside trails radiate from the doorstep. Dumfries lies just 12 miles away, where there are plenty of shops, restaurants and museums, as well as a good theatre. Castle Douglas (8 miles) is a traditional market town with individual shops specialising in food and local produce. There are many beautiful beaches within easy reach along the Solway, and the National Trust Threave Gardens, 8 miles, makes for an interesting day out. Other tourist attractions in the area include the Galloway Kite Trail, the Galloway Forest Park and golf courses and museums in Dumfries. Village shop and pub within 4 miles.

These two semi-detached holiday cottages are situated approximately 1 mile off the public road up a private drive, next to the owners’ home and small working farm in a very quiet, peaceful location, which is ideal for secluded retreats or as a central touring base to explore Dumfries & Galloway. The cottages are similar in style and design and Myrtle Cottage (ref 28177) is a restored barn conversion consisting of a traditional granite byre with an architect designed larch clad extension featuring a welcoming woodburner. They are located near the Solway Coast and close to the world-class ‘7 Stanes’ mountain bike facility at nearby Dalbeattie, 10 minutes’ drive. Also in the vicinity is the Galloway Forest Park which is one of just a handful of ‘Dark Sky Parks’ in the western world in recognition of spectacular sightings of the starry skies it affords. The region’s capital, Dumfries, is a 25 minute drive, and is known for its links with Robert Burns; visitors may explore his house, sample a dram in Burns’ favourite hostelry - The Globe Inn, or find out more about him at the Robert Burns Centre. Other nearby areas of interest are Colvend Golf Course and Southerness Golf Course, both 10 minutes away, and horse riding facilities at Barend Riding School at Sandyhills, just 5 minutes’ drive and fishing. Along the coast, discover unspoilt villages, dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches and rocky coves. There is wildlife in abundance with an RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve nearby. Whitecroft itself has an abundance of wildlife such as roe deer, red squirrels and plentiful birdlife including the majestic red kite. During times of agricultural activity (lambing, shearing, hay making, feeding calves) the owners are more than happy for visitors to view or even have a try. This can be arranged during your stay. In addition to being an ideal venue for a traditional spring/summer break, the cottages make for a perfect cosy autumn/winter break. Constructed and insulated to the highest standards with the benefit of a technologically advanced biomass boiler, you can enjoy the added bonus of central heating 365 days a year, meaning whatever the weather you’re guaranteed to be warm and cosy for no additional cost. Shop, pub and restaurant 6 miles.

Situated in the Rhins of Galloway in the coastal village of Drummore, Scotland’s most southerly point, these holiday cottages stand on the shore of Luce Bay with its sand and shingle beaches just across the road. The well-equipped cottages offer stunning views across the expanse of Luce Bay with its white tipped waves and sea birds, beautiful in the summer, but equally spectacular for wave watching in winter. The area is unspoilt, the scenery idyllic, and the seascapes around the Rhins as dramatic as they are beautiful. Attractions include golf courses and the RSPB Scotland Mull of Galloway Nature Reserve where thousands of seabirds nest in the cliff face during the spring and summer. Harbour porpoises, dolphins, seals and otters can all be seen in the area. Logan Botanical Gardens are a must during spring and summer with its beautiful displays of rare and native plants, as are the gardens at Castle Kennedy and Ardwell House. 5 miles north of Stranraer is Cairnryan, home to the Stena Line and P&O ferries which make regular trips to Ireland. A local, well stocked convenience store, café/seafood restaurant and 3 pubs are all within 500 yards.

Situated only yards from the shoreline, this spacious, detached cottage has fantastic views over the sea to the Mull of Galloway and the Isle of Man. West Barr Cottage has a private garden and direct access to the beach. Known as the Machars of Galloway the area boasts a stunning coastline with amazing cliff top walks. These include Burrow Head, famed for being the location of the closing scene in the cult movie ‘The Wicker Man’, to the Isle of Whithorn, a walk well worth the effort. There are beaches galore to explore, everything from sandy to rugged rocky beaches. The Mull of Galloway is home to the RSPB Nature Reserve and is part of a much larger Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation for its seabirds, plants and coastal habitats. Here you can see many species of birdlife, the cliffs being home to guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes, while ravens and peregrine falcons are regularly seen around the cliffs. Out to sea there are dolphins, porpoise and minke whale to spot and tours can also be taken from the lighthouse. There are many historical areas of interest to visit and the Whithorn Visitor Centre is a mine of information. The area is a walkers and cyclists paradise with the Southern Upland Way passing close by and offering everything from gentle walks to challenging hikes. The town of Stranraer is 20 miles and offers shops, restaurants and pubs and the town of Newton Stewart is also 20 miles away in the opposite direction. There are many coastal villages to explore, and sea fishing, golf and horse riding are all available locally. Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan. Beach 30 yards. Shop and restaurant 2 miles, pub 5 miles.
West Barr Cottage can be booked together with West Barr Farmhouse (UK5766) to accommodate up to 12 guests.

The Steading at Nabny is a two bedroomed, detached barn conversion in a tranquil setting, surrounded by beautiful countryside and only a short drive from the historic old town of Kirkcudbright and the popular market town of Castle Douglas. Whilst offering peace and quiet, and exceptional dark skies, it is ideally placed to explore this stunning and unspoilt corner of south west Scotland. The Steading at Nabny, which is situated close to the owner’s home, has been beautifully converted and is extremely comfortable. The private courtyard is tucked away from the main courtyard, and offers peace and tranquillity for guests to enjoy those stunning dark skies. If weather conditions allow, the owner can offer astronomy sessions that take advantage of the beautiful dark skies and the opportunity to take astrophotographs. Whether you enjoy peaceful rural walks, a cosy evening by the wood burner or trips to see the local attractions, it’s the perfect location for a holiday.
The surrounding area has endless walks, from scenic coastal to forest trails. The attractions are endless, from sailing, fishing, golf, boat trips and water sports, to swimming and riding and much much more. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, there are stunning gardens to visit, including Threave Gardens (National Trust). Kirkcudbright, known as ’the artists’ town’, attracts visitors throughout the year who are drawn by the harbour, historic high street and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions. The popular programme of summer festivities culminates with the spectacular Tattoo, an event not to be missed. Beach 6 miles. Shop 5½ miles, pub and restaurant 6 miles.

Cree lodge with its modern interior boasts stunning views over the Solway Firth and is located close to the village of Creetown and the town of Newton Stewart, with its many shops restaurants, cafés and pubs.

Situated on a working sheep and dairy farm, stabling is also available by prior arrangement, should you wish to bring your horse along too. The lodge is enviably located at the edge of the Galloway Forest Park, Britain’s largest forest park with three hundred square miles of wild beauty just waiting to be explored. The park boasts tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs and ancient woodland alongside a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe deer, wild goats and many birds of prey.

The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world, and when the sun sets enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above. Dalmellington at the far end of the park is home to the Scottish Dark Observatory, and for the outdoor enthusiast nearby Galloway offers hill walking, mountain biking and water-sports, with many renowned gardens and ancient woodland to explore with a chance to glimpse the abundant wildlife.

The towns of Castle Douglas, ‘the food town’, Gatehouse of Fleet and Kirkcudbright, ‘the artist’s town’ are all within a short drive. Gatehouse of Fleet offers a wider range of places to eat and drink, and there are many attractions in and around the town including the ‘Mill on the Fleet’ Visitor Centre, Cardoness Castle and the popular Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre, home to one of Europe’s longest zip wires. Kirkcudbright attracts visitors throughout the year drawn by the harbour, its historic high street and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions. The popular programme of summer festivities culminates with the spectacular Tattoo, an event not to be missed. Beach 7 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Cree Lodge can be booked together with Willow Lodge (ref UK13637) to accommodate up to 8 guests.

Situated on a working cattle farm, this pair of detached cottages are in the ideal location to explore Dumfries and Galloway, from the Galloway Hills and the Galloway Forest Dark Skies Park, with many hidden lochs, burns and waterfalls, to the beautiful coastline with sandy beaches, rocky coves and picturesque villages. You may even be lucky and spot seals and minke whales, and will most certainly see a host of seabirds.

The area is steeped in history and the landscape diverse, a haven for artists, birdwatchers and walkers. The Mull of Galloway, with its lighthouse and grass topped visitor centre, is Scotland’s most southerly point with amazing views of Ireland, England, the Isle of Man and Scotland! Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve is the largest local reserve in the UK. It has internationally recognised, significant numbers of pink-footed geese, greylag geese, many species of duck and wading birds, visiting in autumn and winter.

Horse riding, golf, sailing, diving and numerous walks are available in the area and with its famously mild climate and the balmy influence of the Gulf Stream, Galloway is home to some of the most beautiful and exotic gardens. Beach 3 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub and restaurant 3 miles.

Mid Bishopton Cottage (ref UK10910) can be booked together with Cotters Cottage (ref UK10922) to accommodate up to 8 guests.

The Byre is quite simply a stunning barn conversion, which is part of a courtyard of three luxury holiday cottages converted in 2020. With their eye for detail, the owners have transformed these former farm buildings into a little bit of heaven in the most glorious of surroundings. Grobdale of Girthon is a small farm on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park, where you can enjoy peace and tranquillity yet be easily accessible to all this beautiful corner of south west Scotland has to offer.

The Byre really offers the ultimate in luxury living, from the living room with comfy sofas and cosy wood burners, and a well equipped kitchen, to the sumptuous bedrooms and modern bathrooms. Outside, nestled in the beautiful rolling Galloway Hills, there are 65 acres for you to explore and provide a tranquil escape. Without doubt, a stay at Grobdale of Girthon will want you coming back for more!

Whilst set in a beautiful rural location, Grobdale of Girthon is only 6 miles from the picturesque town of Gatehouse of Fleet, which has a variety of excellent eating places, two very well stocked shops and a pharmacy. There are many attractions in and around the town including the Mill on the Fleet Visitor Centre and Cardoness Castle. There are also delightful beaches within a few minutes drive of the town, including Mossyard and Cardoness.

With mountain biking, fishing, scenic coastal walks and forest trails, golf and water sports close by, there is something for everyone. A visit to Kirkcudbright is a must! Known as ’the artists’ town’, it attracts visitors throughout the year drawn by the harbour, historic high street and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions. The popular programme of summer festivities culminates with the spectacular Tattoo, an event not to be missed. Beach 10 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 6 miles.
The properties were awarded ’Best Farmyard Cottage Getaway Dumfries and Galloway for 2023’ by SME news.
The Byre can be booked together with The Dairy (ref UK7146) and The Croft (ref UK7147) to accommodate up to 10 guests.

This detached country cottage, renovated in 2020/2021 is situated on a working farm and boasts stunning views over to the Mull of Galloway and over towards the Isle of Man. This area of Dumfries and Galloway boasts rugged coastlines and secluded sandy beaches, which benefit from the warmth of the passing Gulf Stream. The cottage is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, offering an ideal base from which to explore the Machars Peninsula and the Galloway Hills.
There are many beautiful gardens to visit, including the renowned Logan Botanical Gardens, which is a paradise to behold. You can also explore quaint villages such as Sandhead, Port William, Portpatrick, The Isle of Whithorn and the Mull of Galloway, home to the RSPB nature reserve, where thousands of seabirds nest on the cliff face during spring and summer.
The cottage is a short drive from Wigtown, which is famous for being Scotland’s National Book Town, a book lovers haven. This is also a great destination for cycling, fishing and golfing with St Medans 9 hole golf course and beach just 1½ miles down the road. This is a fantastic area for walkers, whether you are interested in clifftop, beach, hills or forest walks. There is easy access to The Galloway Forest Park, with its tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs and ancient woodland, as well as a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe deer, wild goats and many birds of prey. The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world and when the sun sets, enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above. Dalmellington, at the far end of the park, is home to the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.
The town of Stranraer, only 30 minutes away, offers a selection of shops and restaurants; a short distance further is Cairnryan, where the ferry can be taken for a day trip to Ireland. Beach 2 miles. Shop 4½ miles, pub and restaurant 6 miles.

Lime tree Cottage is a delightful country cottage set amidst quiet country lanes and stunning scenery, yet only a 10-minute drive to the county town of Dumfries. Lime tree Cottage has been modernised and upgraded in 2021, and a particularly attractive feature of this lovely little cottage is the open-plan living space to the rear with patio doors opening onto a secluded and private garden. With the doors wide open when the weather is fine, it’s the ideal place to sit back and relax. All on the ground floor and with a second living room, two bedrooms and a modern shower room, there is plenty of space for all the family to enjoy – your four legged friends too!
From Lime tree Cottage it will be a delight for the walkers amongst you as you are surrounded by miles of quiet country lanes to explore. The area surrounding Lime tree Cottage is just as enticing, as this lovely corner of South West Scotland is known for its rugged beauty from beautiful sandy beaches and cliff top walks to forest trails. Whilst staying at Lime tree Cottage, visit the majestic Drumlanrig Castle with its 90,000-acre estate which boasts miles of beautiful walks and acres of ornate gardens. Not only can you take a tour of the castle, but you can experience championship mountain biking trails, fish for salmon and the kids can enjoy the adventure playground and ranger-led wildlife walks. It really is a day out to remember.
The Galloway Forest Park is an amazing place to visit where you can enjoy great walking in the rolling Galloway glens and hills with breathtaking loch and mountain views, and as the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, one of the darkest places in the UK, you can enjoy the starry night skies.