Dog-friendly Hotels Dumfries and Galloway

A traditional, detached, 200-year-old property in Carrutherstown near Dumfries, Scotland. Games room with pool table. Enclosed garden. Woodburning stove. Castle Douglas 18 miles; Gretna 30 miles.

Auld Acquaintance Cottage sits in the heart of Ellisland Farm which was built by Robert Burns in 1788 for his young wife and family. Burns, known affectionately as Rabbie, is the national poet of Scotland and is celebrated worldwide for poems and songs including Auld Lang Syne, which was written here. Whilst Ellisland Farm remains much as it was in the 18th century, Auld Acquaintance Cottage was renovated in 2023 into a beautiful holiday retreat in the modern rustic style. The large, open plan living space with its cosy wood burner and beautifully fitted kitchen is a charming room with doors opening onto a garden overlooking the River Nith. The cosy interior includes artisan and antique pieces, with artwork inspired by Burns.
Ellisland is the best place to see nature through the poet’s eyes. Follow woodland paths created by the ploughman poet himself, including where he wrote his famous epic, Tam o’ Shanter. Auld Acquaintance Cottage looks on to the farmhouse built by Burns where you can experience what life would have been like for a rural family in the 18th century. The museum includes an extensive collection of artefacts, memorabilia and manuscripts. Proceeds from Auld Acquaintance Cottage support The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust, the charity which safeguards this precious historic site and its collection.
You are perfectly placed to explore this unspoiled region. Visit the stunning Drumlanrig Castle where you can take a tour of the ’pink palace’ built by the first Duke of Queensberry, or explore miles of beautiful walks and gardens. There are numerous activities for kids, from the adventure playground to ranger-led wildlife walks. You are also just six miles outside the regional market town of Dumfries with its many attractions, including Robert Burns’ favourite establishment, The Globe Inn, now a fine dining restaurant.
The Galloway Forest Park is an amazing place to visit where you can enjoy the rolling glens with breath-taking loch and mountain views. As the UKs first Dark Sky Park, Galloway is one of the darkest places in the UK. Ellisland also has stunning night skies which inspired Burns to write Thou Lingering Star, a moving homage to his lost love, Highland Mary. Beach 19¾ miles.

Terraughtie Cottage West is a delightful semi-detached cottage set along an unclassified road, on the outskirts of Dumfries. Offering a lovely countryside location yet close enough for a pleasant walk or cycle into town, around the local countryside or on the nearby cycle pathways.
The cottage has been completely renovated and modernised throughout in 2023 and offers the perfect home from home. The open plan living is perfect whether you are cooking, dining or just relaxing in front of the cosy wood burner. Beautifully decorated throughout, the comfort continues in the modern and sleek bathroom, and the bedrooms with wonderfully sumptuous beds and linen. Outside you can enjoy the garden with your very own private hot tub – what better way to relax?
Only a couple of minutes’ walk from Terraughtie Cottage West is Kilnford Kitchen and farm shop. Before enjoying a bite to eat, take a stroll through the nature trail where you can see belted Galloway cows or enjoy a spot of bird watching from the bird hide. There is a secret garden where younger members of the family will love exploring. The farm shop stocks everything from gifts and flowers to takeaway meals. There is even an adventure playground for the children.
If fishing is your passion, you can walk/cycle easily to Auldernauk Fishery from the property, a most attractive and well stocked three acre fly-only loch holding good sized rainbow, blue, brown and tiger trout; it is a quiet and friendly family-owned fishery run by anglers. If you can tear yourself away for a day sightseeing, the area is renowned for its rugged beauty, from beautiful sandy beaches, cliff top walks and forest trails. The world renowned 7Stanes mountain biking routes are also within easy reach. The area is well recognised for its clear skies as one of the 12 best stargazing sites in the world, with the Galloway Forest Park being the first Dark Sky Park in the UK. Pub and restaurant within 2½ miles. Shop within ¼ mile. Beach 17½ miles.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Beira’s Garden, Knockendoch is a truly magical cottage set in expansive and award-winning gardens, beautifully planted and shaped by one of Scotland’s leading landscapists, with a variety of indigenous shrubs, trees and ferns. The house itself, built on the site of a former bothy, is wonderfully sheltered from the prevailing east winds and nestles into the lower slopes of two of Dumfries and Galloway’s most beautiful mountains, Knockendoch and Criffel. Even when there’s wind on the hills, there’s peace in Beira’s Garden!
The house itself has been beautifully decorated to the highest standard, with historic wallpapers designed to complement the moods of the different parts of the garden in each of the bedrooms - while the large kitchen-dining room and the light-filled garden room have been painted in restful shades. From one end of the garden visitors can sit and enjoy breath-taking views across the valley; at the other end they can sit and picnic next to the mountain stream that flows through the garden on its way down to the picturesque village of New Abbey, where there is a village shop, a pub and a cafe. On the summit of the hill opposite towers one of the best loved monuments of the region, the Waterloo Monument. Looking back down to the village, visitors have a splendid view of Sweetheart Abbey, a famous ruin once painted by England’s most famous artist, J.M.W. Turner - and from a spot very close to where Beira’s Garden now stands.
Until 2018, the route to Knockendoch and Criffel was almost impassable, but thanks to a recent council initiative a perfect walkers’ track has been laid and this now paves the way to one of the most beautiful views in Scotland. The summit of Knockendoch, which once took the hardiest walker 2 hours and more to reach, can now be attained in around 50 minutes. From the top there are amazing views across the Solway Firth and - on a clear day - all the way across to the peaks of the Lake District. From there the walk on to Criffel is easy and very scenic.
There are beautiful fishing lochs within a short distance from the house and the best organic delicatessen in southern Scotland is less than 10 minutes away by car. There is also a choice of three supermarkets 15 minutes away in Dumfries. There are few better places from which to explore wonderful Dumfries and Galloway than Beira’s Garden, Knockendoch. Beach 8 miles.

Wow! Keeper’s Cottage is a truly luxurious semi-detached cottage in the most beautiful setting. With the owner’s flair and attention to detail evident throughout, its sumptuous interior and beautiful décor will enable you to enjoy the most indulgent holiday. Keeper’s Cottage, which was completely renovated in 2021, is perfect for guests looking for a relaxing luxury getaway in a peaceful location. It retains a real charm and extends a great welcome throughout. The ground floor provides an extremely well-equipped kitchen with a dining space, and the living room offers a wood burner just perfect for those chillier evenings. The quality shines through on the first floor, too, with the master bedroom boasting a sumptuous bed and the added luxury of a stunning roll-top bath, where you can relax after a day exploring. Also on the first floor is a twin bedroom overlooking the village green, and modern and luxurious shower room. When the weather is fine, the garden at Keeper’s Cottage is beautiful and very peaceful where you can sit and relax enjoying the wildlife during the day, or in the evenings wonder at the dark starry skies - total bliss. New for 2023, an outdoor, wood-fired sauna is available on request.
Durisdeer is a picturesque village set around the village green, nestling at the foot of the Lowther Hills where you can enjoy an abundance of walks and enjoy the picturesque scenery. The biggest surprise perhaps in Durisdeer is the magnificent parish church. Whilst Durisdeer is the perfect spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the town of Thornhill is only 6 miles away, and has all local amenities including some lovely little niche shops, restaurants and coffee shops.
A must while staying at Keeper’s Cottage is a visit to the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle and Gardens which boasts miles of beautiful walks for you to enjoy. With championship mountain bike trails, salmon fishing on the river, adventure playgrounds and ranger-led activities, there is something to keep young and old alike entertained all day.
Further afield in this beautiful corner of Dumfries and Galloway, there are attractions in abundance from beautiful sandy beaches to dramatic clifftop walks along the majestic Solway Coast. A visit to Caerlaverock Wetland Centre, a spectacular 1400-acre wild reserve is a must! With sailing, swimming, horse riding, fishing and golf close by, there is something for everyone.

Curlew Cottage is situated in a lovely rural area with amazing views from the wood fuel hot tub towards the Moffat Hills. Renovated completely in 2021, Curlew Cottage offers the perfect holiday cottage for you to get away from it all and relax. It is delightfully decorated throughout, and a particular feature of the cottage is the large living room with low windows making the most of the views. There is a small snug with cosy open fire perfect for those chillier evenings. With a large kitchen/diner, three bedrooms and two bathrooms, Curlew Cottage will suit families or groups of friends to meet and enjoy. There is outside to enjoy too with its spacious garden and perhaps in an evening you can sit on the patio and marvel at the starry night skies.

Amazing local towns nearby such as Lockerbie, Moffat and Thornhill. Situated just a few miles from the market town of Lockerbie, which provides all local amenities including some lovely little shops and restaurants. Lockerbie has a train station if you fancy a day trip to Edinburgh or Glasgow. However, Dumfries and Galloway is so beautiful there is plenty to keep you entertained during your stay at Curlew Cottage. The area boasts rugged coastlines and secluded sandy beaches with many beautiful gardens to explore. Enjoy world-class mountain biking, walking routes, riding, fishing and birdwatching all within easy reach.

Morton Mains Steading Cottage is a little gem of a cottage set in a peaceful rural location in beautiful Dumfries and Galloway, yet only a few miles from the lovely town of Thornhill. Morton Mains Steading Cottage has a delightful outlook over a picturesque pond and open farmland. The real hub of Morton Mains Steading is the stunning kitchen/dining room where the whole family can come together and enjoy meals chatting over the day’s events. The sitting room is warm and cosy with a lovely wood burne and the bedrooms all boast comfy beds. Morton Mains Steading Cottage will delight guests young and old. Whilst the cottage offers you a tranquil setting, it is only a short drive from many attractions and amenities in the area. Drumlanrig Castle along with its 90,000 acre estate is a fabulous day out and only a 10 minute drive away. Visit the castle and take a tour or just enjoy the grounds where you can try one of the championship mountain biking trails or you can just relax with a day’s fishing on the river. There are numerous activities for kids from the adventure playground (restricted opening) to ranger-led wildlife walks.

Further afield in this beautiful corner of Dumfries and Galloway, there are attractions in abundance from beautiful sandy beaches to dramatic cliff tops along the majestic Solway Coast. A visit to Caerlaverock Wetland Centre, a spectacular 1400-acre wild reserve is a must! With sailing, swimming, horse riding, fishing, golf, boat trips and water sports close by, there is something for everyone. A must is a trip to the Galloway Forest Park, one of the darkest places in the UK at night, in fact the UKs first Dark Sky Park.

A visit to this area of south west Scotland would not be complete without a day trip to the rugged coastline and seaside, with visits to the quaint villages and towns such as Kippford, Sandyhills, Southerness and Kirkcudbright.

The Gin Case is a delightful little cottage an annex to the large Farmhouse and has been lovingly renovated in 2021. The owners have certainly made the most of the views and the sitting room/dining/kitchen is on the first floor with patio doors out to a balcony which takes in the spectacular views across open farmland and the Moffat hills. From the balcony you can see for miles and it really is a delightful spot where you can sit and relax with a glass of wine or indeed dine al fresco! Quality and comfort are evident from the moment you walk in the door and it really is a delightful little cottage for your base while exploring the area.
For the serious biker you have come to the right place!! Ae Forest is basically on your doorstep and is one of the world class 7Stanes mountain biking venues featuring a superb variety of green, blue, and red graded trails as well as an extreme downhill section and a skills area. Not just for the bikers Ae Forest is the perfect place to visit for a relaxing picnic by the river or follow the walking routes from gentle rambles along the River of Ae or longer hikes into the hills with some wonderful views. The Gin Case is in a lovely peaceful location yet ideally located to visiting the surrounding area which is a joy.
Take a drive along the coast taking in the lovely little coastal villages such as Kippford and Rockcliffe or enjoy a day at the beach at Sandy hills. There are many historic sites along your way including Caerlaverock Castle and Drumlanrig Castle is a must where you can take a guided tour of the Castle or just enjoy the many acres of gardens. The county town of Dumfries is only 9 miles away and has a great selection of shops, restaurants, tea rooms as well as many interesting historical sites including Burns House, the home of the famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns. The area is famed for some of the darkest skies in the world so end your day sitting on your balcony enjoy the starry night skies.

Terraughtie Cottage East is a delightful semi-detached cottage set along an unclassified road, on the outskirts of Dumfries, offering a lovely countryside location yet close enough for a lovely walk or cycle into town, around the local countryside or on the nearby cycle pathways. Terraughtie Cottage East has been completely renovated and modernised throughout in 2020 and offers the perfect and most comfortable home from home. There is a cosy wood burner in the sitting room just perfect for those chillier nights, and new and modern bathrooms and kitchen. The large gardens are the ideal playground for kids with plenty of space for them to enjoy whilst the adults relax. What better way to relax?
Only a few minutes’ walk from Terraughtie Cottage East is Kilnford Kitchen and Farm Shop. Before enjoying a bite to eat take a stroll through the nature trail where you can see belted Galloway cows or partake in a spot of bird watching from the bird hide. There is a secret garden where younger members of the family will love exploring. The farm shop stocks everything from gifts and flowers to takeaway meals. There is even an adventure playground for the children.
If fishing is your passion you can walk/cycle easily to Auldernauk Fishery from Terraughtie Cottage East, a most attractive and well stocked three acre fly-only loch holding good sized rainbow, blue, brown and tiger trout! A quiet and friendly family-owned fishery run by anglers.
If you can tear yourself away for a day sightseeing, the area is renowned for its rugged beauty from beautiful sandy beaches, cliff top walks and forest trails. The world renowned 7stanes mountain biking routes are also within easy reach. The area is well recognised for its clear skies as one of the 12 best stargazing sites in the world, with the Galloway Forest Park being the first Dark Sky Park in the UK. Pub and restaurant within 2½ miles. Shop within ¼ mile. Beach 17½ miles.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Broomlands Cottage is a lovely traditional detached cottage delightfully set close to some stunning countryside walks. It has been completely renovated and modernised throughout in 2020 and offers a real home from home feeling with good quality furnishings and fittings. The modern kitchen is a real joy with all modern appliances and a lovely Belfast sink. The cosy living room has an inviting wood burner, just the place to sit and relax reminiscing on your day’s activities over a glass of wine. With a large fully enclosed garden surrounding the cottage your four legged friend will feel right at home too.
Beattock is situated 2 miles from Moffat, a vibrant and bustling little town which attracts visitors throughout the year. With pathways from Broomlands why not take a walk into Moffat on a fine day and have a wander around the many speciality shops and cafés in the town. Of course you must sample the famous Moffat Toffee. Set in the heart of Upper Annandale amidst the beautiful southern upland hills it is a walker’s paradise with many routes starting from the town and taking in some beautiful lochs and valleys along the way. Broomlands Cottage is the ideal base to explore further afield but before you do take a short drive up to the Grey Mares Tail one of Scotland’s favourite water falls plunging 60 metres into the valley below, a spectacular sight.
As well as the hills and valleys, South West Scotland has more than 200 miles of fabulous coastline for you to discover with delightful little seaside towns and villages, beautiful beaches and dramatic cliff top walks. If the bright lights of a city beckon Glasgow and Edinburgh can both be reached within an hour’s drive. Beach 27 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.