Dumfries & Galloway
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-> Dumfries & GallowayDumfries & Galloway is the large area comprising the south-west of Scotland, stretching from Stranraer in the west, to Gretna in the east and Moffat and Sanquhar in the north. It is an area of rolling hills, mountains, rivers, lochs and forests but its unique attraction is the Solway Firth and the 200-miles of coastline which has fine beaches and provides opportunities for fishing, sailing and other water sports. (Be careful of the tidal mud flats which can be dangerous). The area attracts many birds who settle here for the winter, such as barnacle geese, and there are many nature reserves and marine centres. Galloway Forest Park covers 300 square metres of forest, woodland, lochs and mountains and is teeming with wildlife, including red deer and birds of prey. The mild climate created by the Gulf Stream has allowed subtropical trees and plants to flourish in the many famous gardens which are open to the public.
The region has an interesting and diverse history, having been conquered and inhabited by the Picts, Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Irish Celts with close links being maintained with the Vikings. Christianity was brought to Scotland by St. Ninian who set up a mission at Whithorn. Robert The Bruce launched his campaign to rid Scotland of English rule from Loch Trool in Galloway Forest Park and the area is referred to as 'the cradle of Scottish independence'.
There are thus many varied places of interest to visit in Dumfries & Galloway and ample opportunities for a wide range of leisure activities. |