The town of Dalbeattie was founded in 1793 as a mill town, a port and a granite quarrying centre. It has still got its Craignair Hill quarry, but now makes most of its income from tourism and service industries. Visitors to Dumfries and Galloway (south west Scotland) are invited to try our town for themselves. It looks beautiful in any kind of weather and we offer a warm welcome.

 

The Downy Birch (Betula pubescens) is common in Western Scotland, and for Dalbeattie it has a special meaning. The name 'Dalbeatha' means 'Vale of the Birches'. Many birches grow in the valley of the Urr, which remains a natural unspoilt and beautiful part of Scotland.

 

There are gardens to visit, ruined abbeys-Sweetheart Abbey is a must and castles to explore, as well as opportunities for golfing, walking, fishing and bird watching - all are within easy reach.

 

The Dumfries and Galloway region is comparatively undiscovered by tourists, yet it offers magnificent scenery, some of the finest beaches and golf-courses in Scotland, has a mild climate, wonderful walks and drives, traffic free roads, and, above all, outstanding hospitality.

 

Guests can participate in Deer Stalking, Shooting and Riding in the area. Also situated nearby is the David Coulthard museum, dedicated to the world-famous Formula 1 driver. The championship golf course at Southerness is only 10 miles away and Mersehead Bird Reserve is close by.