Dog-friendly Hotels Dumfries and Galloway

The Lodge on the Beach is a two bedroomed log cabin set in probably one of the most stunning and truly unique locations in South West Scotland. Nestled on the shores of Auchenmalg Bay on an eight acre plot and just yards from your door is the family friendly beach. With its magical location, The Lodge on the Beach offers you a wonderful relaxing escape for all the family. With the views, the beautiful sunrises, the sublime sunsets over the Mull of Galloway, the walks, and sound of the waves just yards away, you will be blown away by the scenery and the location.
The Lodge on the Beach is ideally placed to explore the wider and unspoilt area of South West Scotland if you can drag yourself away. A very short stroll along the beach takes you to a delightful country pub and restaurant if you don’t want to cook after your day out exploring. A few minutes away by car is Glenluce, where there is a local shop selling essentials and 20 minutes away Stranraer offers a greater range of shops including Supermarkets. This area of Dumfries and Galloway boasts rugged coastlines and secluded sandy beaches as well as inland forests and hills making walking a delight and for the cyclists the world famous 7Stanes mountain biking trails are close by at Kirroughtree. The Lodge on the Beach is an ideal base for a Golfing Holiday. With Wigtownshire County Club less than ten minutes from the Lodge, and South West Scotland boasts twenty three Golf courses. The icing on the cake is that just over an hour away there is Turnberry.
Along the coast is the lovely little village of Port William, known as the “Machars of Galloway” and of course you must go and find “The Man” and get a photograph with him. As well as Port William, you can also explore quaint villages such as Sandhead, Portpatrick and the Isle of Whithorn. A must is a visit to Wigtown, which is famous for being Scotland’s National Book Town, a book lovers haven. The Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s most southerly point and home to the RSPB nature reserve, where thousands of seabird’s nests on the cliff face during spring and summer is definitely worth a visit. Beach 1 mile.

Situated on a working farm, Middle Byre originally housed the cattle on the farm and has been delightfully converted into a comfortable and spacious holiday property perfect for families. The property is nestled in the Girthon Valley and is surrounded by some of the best scenery in Galloway, with great walks, both woodland and coastal. Galloway has 200 miles of beautiful coastline, wild mountains and moorland, pretty towns and charming villages. The area also offers a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy, be it visiting the local ice cream factory, Cream O’ Galloway at Sandgreen, CocoaBean Chocolate Factory at Twynholm or why not visit Laggan Outdoors, which has one of the longest zip wires in Europe. There are many exciting and beautiful cycle paths straight from your door or try the world famous 7Stanes challenge. There is an abundance of local lochs and rivers if fishing is preferred! There is something for everyone in this beautiful unspoilt corner of Scotland. The cottage is only a few minutes drive from the charming town of Gatehouse of Fleet which offers a wide range of places to eat and relax. There are many attractions in and around the town including the Mill on the Fleet Visitor Centre and Cardoness Castle. Beach 1½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.
Middle Byre can be booked together with The Stable (CC537233), Valley View (CC537234), The Barn (CC537235) and The Bothy (UK5803) to accommodate up to 22 guests.

Situated on the outskirts of a quiet village, in the heart of 7Stanes Mountain Biking country, this detached, converted former dairy is set on a small holding and boasts stunning views over open countryside. This holiday cottage is ideally located to explore local history, with castles, abbeys, mansions and ruins. Dumfries and Galloway boasts rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, and is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, offering an ideal base from which to explore the Machars Peninsula and the Galloway Hills. The historic cities of Edinburgh and Carlisle, cosmopolitan Glasgow and the North Lake District are easily reached within an hour. Fishing is available on the River Annan at Hoddom, and there is golfing close by at Hoddom and Powfoot, as well as all the courses Dumfries and Galloway has to offer. Beach 5 miles. Shop 5 miles, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Surrounded by similar cottages in Old Minnigaff, on the edge of Newton Stewart, this cosy, character filled, terraced riverbank cottage is located in a quiet courtyard. It is just a short stroll from the property to all the local amenities including pubs, restaurants and shops. The garden is set right on the riverbank and is perfect for spending endless hours watching the local wildlife, including kingfishers and otters, or just enjoying a glass of wine as the sun sets over the river. The wood burner in the living room and huge picture window means that even when it is raining you can still enjoy the outlook over the River Cree.
Newton Stewart lies on the southern edge of the Galloway Forest Park, which was Scotland’s first Dark Sky Park. If you go for a walk there in the day time you may meet red deer and wild goats that inhabit the area. The area is fantastic for walking, with rolling glens, forests and stunning coastline paths. For bikers there are two of the world famous 7stanes mountain bike trial centres close by at Glentrool and Kirroughtree. Scotland’s ’National Book Town’, Wigtown, is only 7 miles away. This quaint town has a large number of book shops where you can spend hours searching for that perfect holiday read. Wigtown Bay is also the largest Local Nature Reserve in Britain, with a wealth of wildlife, making it ideal for birdwatching. Kirkcudbright, Gatehouse of Fleet and Castle Douglas are also all close by. Beach 7 miles. Shop 300 yards, pub and restaurant 100 yards.

Situated in the seaside village of Southerness, this detached property is a mere 100 yards from the sandy beach and provides spacious accommodation from which to explore south west Scotland. Located on the spectacular Solway coast near Dumfries and close to the stunning Galloway Forest Park, Britain’s largest forest park, it is a popular area for walkers and cyclists with world class mountain biking at Dalbeattie 7 Stanes nearby. With unspoilt villages, dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches, rocky coves, magnificent gardens, castles and ancient monuments to explore. Wildlife is in abundance with the RSPB nature reserve just along the coast. Championship golf course 300 yards away and fishing, riding and sailing are all available. Sweetheart Abbey, Drumlanrig Castle and Gardens, and Mabie Farm Park are all within easy reach. Beach 100 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 200 yards.

Situated in an elevated position in the centre of the picturesque Rhins of Galloway Peninsula and enjoying a wonderful outlook over Loch Ryan towards the Firth of Clyde with stunning panoramic views of Ailsa Craig, Isle of Arran and Mull of Kintyre, Cairncroft Cottage is an ideal base for a relaxing holiday with family or friends.
Adjacent to the owners’ home and recently renovated, Cairncroft Cottage is perfectly placed to enjoy the delights of this lovely corner of south-west Scotland.
The spacious kitchen/dining room has a halogen hob and provides the perfect place to enjoy a meal while chatting with friends, or why not challenge them to a game of pool in the large games room? Perfect for your evening entertainment. The lovely sitting room has views over the gardens which are also a delight, not only if you want to sit out and relax but also for the kids and four-legged friends to run around and enjoy.
Only 10 minutes from the picturesque holiday village of Portpatrick and also 10 minutes from the coastal town of Stranraer, you have the best of both worlds, wonderfully secluded and quiet, while attractions, restaurants, bars and services are all within easy reach.
There are many miles of quiet country lanes to explore, excellent for both walking and cycling, with an abundance of wildlife to see. As well as stunning wildlife, the area boasts an interesting and colourful history with numerous sites and monuments of historical interest, ranging from the early Christian remains of Kirkmadrine to the more recent WW2 activity of Loch Ryan. The rugged coastline, dramatic cliff-top walks, secluded sandy beaches and pretty little harbour villages all provide great wildlife and nature spotting opportunities with endless spectacular scenes to photograph or paint - the natural light in the area is exceptional. Why not visit Dunskey Castle, a ruined tower house dating from the 16th century, only a short cliff-top walk from Portpatrick, or spend the afternoon in the village, on Dunskey golf course or the putting green by the harbour? The village has a good selection of places to eat and drink and also hosts a monthly craft fair and producers market. Within Stranraer, Agnew Park has various attractions to entertain younger guests, and The Ryan Centre has gym facilities, swimming pool, children’s pool and cinema.
Well worth a visit is The Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s most Southerly point, with its lighthouse, visitor centre and amazing views of Ireland, England, Isle of Man and Scotland. Seabirds are a certainty and seals are common in the sheltered bays, lucky guests may even spot minke whales or basking sharks feeding in the temperate waters. Another must is visiting one of the many gardens in the area which include the world-renowned Logan Botanic Garden, Castle Kennedy Gardens with their Monkey Puzzle Avenue and Lily Pond or the unique Glenwhan Gardens.
With so much to see and do, come back to Cairncroft Cottage and sit back, relax and enjoy the view.

Glen Isle is a delightful Finnish-style lodge which has been completely refurbished in 2020 and is warm, cosy and welcoming, With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, it’s ideal for couples or a family.
Set on the edge of Dalbeattie Forest, this perfect holiday home has been furnished with a modern feel throughout, from the lovely open plan kitchen/dining room, cosy living room and the bedrooms which have comfy mattresses and crisp white bed linen for that perfect night’s sleep.
Situated in the most peaceful of locations and with 15 acres of land surrounding, Glen Isle makes the most of the covered terrace with its indulgent hot tub, the perfect spot to sit and watch the stars at night or dine al fresco and watch the sun setting; you will be able to spot some wildlife including red squirrels, deer and buzzards. There is a private cycling and walking path to Dalbeattie Forest for the use of holidaymakers.
Glen Isle is only 1 mile from the small town of Dalbeattie, and if walking and cycling is your pastime you have found your perfect location. From Glen Isle you can take advantage of the direct access to many walking and bike trails including the famous 7Stanes mountain bike trail. This unspoilt area of south west Scotland is a joy to explore. From magnificent scenery, some of the finest beaches and golf courses in Scotland, riding, fishing, watersports and some stunning historical sites and fabulous gardens, there is something for all ages. Beach 5 miles. Pub and restaurant 1 mile.

The Stables at Drumlane Farm is a lovely semi-detached cottage converted in 2015 from the old steading and would most likely have housed the horses on the farm in years gone by. Beautifully presented, it is a real home from home with its cosy and welcoming rooms and lovely outside space with your very own private hot tub where you can relax after a day exploring perhaps with a glass of wine and just taking in the breathtaking dark starry skies. Whether you choose to stay at The Stables or The Dairy, with the owner’s attention to detail you really are in for a treat.
The Stables is set quietly on a working farm amidst the most glorious countryside nestling between the Galloway Hills and forests to the north and the sweeping beaches of the Solway Firth to the south, and only a short drive to the historic market town of Castle Douglas with its array of small unique shops selling local produce and quality gifts and some excellent restaurants and cafés. If you want to explore more of this beautiful area then you couldn’t be better placed than at The Stables as attractions are plentiful, from beautiful sandy beaches to dramatic cliff tops.
With sailing, swimming, horse riding, fishing, golf and water sports all close by, there is something for everyone. On your doorstep is the Red Kite Feeding Station where the red kites are fed daily at 2pm, it really is a fantastic sight to watch. There are many beautiful gardens to visit including National Trust Threave Garden. The Stables is set on the fringes of the Galloway Forest Park, home to the first Dark Sky Park in Europe, and central to two of the 7Stanes, at Kirroughtree Forest and Dalbeattie Forest; it is a popular location for cyclists and mountain bikers. Kirroughtree has some of the best technical single track mountain bike trails in Scotland. Beach 17 miles. Pub and restaurant 3½ miles.
The Stables (ref UK41958) can be booked together with The Dairy (ref UK41957) to accommodate up to 9 guests.

Tom’s Place is a delightful semi-detached bungalow set quietly in a lovely residential area of the historic town of Kirkcudbright.
Barrhill No 14 has been modernised and is a deceptively spacious bungalow beautifully decorated. The real surprise is the spacious living/dining area where friends and family can enjoy a cosy night in around the dining table or just sitting relaxing in front of the lovely wood burning stove. All on the one level from the living area there is a good sized kitchen with everything you will need to cook up a storm. Outside you can sit and relax when the weather is fine with a glass of your favourite tipple! Whilst in a quiet residential area Tom’s Place is only a short walk from the bustling harbour and the array of niche shops, galleries, including a new gallery of national significance which hosts exhibitions throughout the year, and restaurants.
Take a walk round this vibrant and lively little town and visit the famous Broughton House and gardens, once home to E A Hornel. Kirkcudbright is known as ’the artists’ town’, having hosted generations of painters, craft makers and artisans, a culture still thriving today. From the old to the new - a must for children and adults alike is a visit to the Dark Sky Planetarium, a state of the art interactive science and space themed experience for everyone or you just may prefer the Dark Art Gin Distillery next door! The town attracts visitors throughout the year drawn by the harbour, the historic high street, the impressive ruins of MacLellan’s Castle and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions.
From the town, there are numerous walks available, from scenic coastal paths to forest trails, and with sailing, swimming, riding, fishing, golf, boat trips and water sports close by, there is sure to be something for everyone. Further afield there are many beautiful gardens to visit, including the National Trust’s Threave Gardens. Close to the Galloway Forest Park and central to five of the 7Stanes, this is a popular destination for cyclists and mountain bikers. Beach 3 miles.

This delightful caravan has one of the most enviable sites in the grounds of the award-winning David Bellamy Gold Conservation site of Coastal Kippford Holiday Park. Its elevated position ensures the most marvellous views down towards the estuary and the enclosed decking allows you to make the most of those views whilst enjoying your morning coffee or perhaps sitting and relaxing with your favourite tipple as the sun sets. Inside, The Honey Pot is just as welcoming with its open plan living space which is tastefully decorated and a delightful space to sit and enjoy if the weather is unfavourable. The comfort continues throughout in the bedrooms, the double has an en-suite toilet and there is a family shower room. The accommodation is a lovely space where you can enjoy a fun filled holiday with all the family.
The Honey Pot is just a short stroll from the small and pretty seaside village of Kippford with two excellent seafront pubs/restaurants and a tearoom. You can enjoy numerous walks and coastal paths in and around the village including the particularly spectacular walk along the Jubilee path to Rockcliffe, another little village just around the coast with its lovely sandy beach. Sailing is at the hub of life in the village and each August culminates with Kippford Week, a week of racing and excitement on the estuary for all ages. Further afield this beautiful corner of Dumfries and Galloway will delight all ages. Enjoy the many historic castles, National Trust gardens and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds sites in the region. As well as mountain biking at several of the world renowned 7Stanes trails, Dalbeattie Forest just along the road being one, golfing is a popular pastime in the area and there are several championship courses within a short drive. For the younger guests there are ice cream farms, farm parks and even a chocolate factory where you can make your own chocolate, so there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy. Beach 3½ miles.