Dundrennan Abbey, Dundrennan

A Cistercian Monastery, linked to the better known Rievaulx Abbey in North Yorkshire. Other Cistercian architecture in the area can be found in the Glenluce Abbey, and also in Sweetheart Abbey in New Abbey. The Monks who owned Dundrennan Abbey, also owned Hestan Island in the 12th and 13th Centuries – they used it for fishing. The remains of a walled enclosure ‘pool,’ which would have been used for trapping fish at low tide can still be seen.

Broughton House and Gardens, Kircudbright

The Home of artist ‘Glasgow Boy’ E A Hornell, this is a living museum to his life and work.

Threave Castle and Gardens, Castle Douglas

Stunning gardens, and an incredible chance to view Osprey. At the centre is Threave House, which was designed in the Scottish Baronial style in 1871 for the Gordon family.

Orchardton Tower, Palnackie

The only circular free standing tower house in Scotland. Orchardton Tower was built by John Cairns, probably soon after he retired to his Galloway estates in 1456, the estate was divided over time, and it wasn’t until 1615 that all the shares in the estate and the tower were brought together again, by Sir Robert Maxwell, 1st Baronet of Orchardton.

Caelaverock Castle

Glencaple, Dumfries, DG1 4RU

A medieval moated stronghold at the centre of Historical Border conflicts.