Scenic Walking Holiday Exploring Dumfries and Galloway
Join us this August Bank Holiday for a three-night scenic walking holiday in Dumfries and Galloway, one of Scotland’s most scenic and tranquil regions. This stunning area offers dramatic coastal cliffs, serene lochs, and ancient woodlands, creating the perfect backdrop for an inspiring walking adventure.
Experience Type: Multi-Day Experience
Duration: 3 nights
Accommodation: Hostel
Group Size: Maximum 8
Level: Leisurely Plus
Age: 18+
Dogs: No dogs, except trained assistance dogs
In a Nutshell:
Explore Dumfries and Galloway: Discover the breathtaking scenery of this peaceful and picturesque region of Scotland.
Guided Walks: Three days of leisurely walks featuring coastal paths, tranquil lochs, and enchanting woodlands.
Cosy Accommodation: Enjoy a warm welcome at the comfortable Whithorn Bunkhouse, the perfect base for our adventures.
Stress-Free Travel: Includes convenient pick-up and drop-off at Carlisle station.
Sociable Atmosphere: Meet like-minded walkers and share meals, stories, and laughs over the long weekend.
Book today…
Discover Scotland’s Hidden Gem – Dumfries and Galloway
Join Large Outdoors for a sociable walking weekend exploring Dumfries and Galloway, a region full of natural beauty, fascinating history, and vibrant wildlife. From the stunning Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s southernmost point, to the peaceful shores of Loch Trool, every step of this weekend reveals awe-inspiring views and unique experiences.
Relax in cosy accommodation at the Whithorn Bunkhouse, enjoy hearty meals, and connect with fellow adventurers. Whether it’s the dramatic cliffs, serene woodlands, or quiet lochs, Dumfries and Galloway promises an unforgettable escape.
Exploring the coastline of Dumfries & Galloway
Suggested Weekend Itinerary
Here’s what we’ve got planned - of course, we may have to offer alternatives or make amendments if the weather misbehaves or other unexpected situations arise!
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The group will meet in Whithorn and you can either arrive at your own leisurely or we will be offering free collection from Carlisle station.
For those being collected in Carlisle its around a 2.5 hours drive to our base and we’ll stop en-route for a brew and leg stretch.
Once we’ve settled into our accommodation in Whithorn we’ll enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal. After dinner, we’ll go over the weekend’s plans and get to know each other in the relaxed communal space.
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After breakfast, we head to the Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s most southerly point. This 10km circular walk offers stunning views over Luce Bay, and on clear days, to the Isle of Man and Ireland. Along the way, we’ll visit the iconic lighthouse and explore the RSPB nature reserve, home to dolphins, porpoises, and a variety of seabirds.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Portpatrick, a charming harbour village, and the nearby Dunskey Castle.
Tonight we will eat in the bunkhouse. -
Today we venture inland to explore the serene Loch Trool. This 10km circular walk features woodland trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views over the loch and surrounding hills. Along the route, we’ll stop at Bruce’s Stone, commemorating Robert the Bruce’s victory in the Battle of Glen Trool in 1307.
After lunch, we’ll visit the Wood of Cree, a magical woodland full of ancient oak trees, bilberries, and hidden waterfalls. This 3.5km circular walk is perfect for birdwatchers and those who love tranquil settings. We’ll finish the day with a stop in Newton Stewart for cake and a well-earned rest.
Tonight we will head out to a local pub or restaurant for an evening meal and this is not included.
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On our final day, we’ll explore the picturesque coastline around Kippford and Rockcliffe, often referred to as the "Scottish Riviera." This 11km walk features white shell beaches, views of Rough Island (accessible at low tide), and Castlehill Point. We’ll also visit two small hills offering panoramic views of the area, perfect for one last photo opportunity.
The Mull of Galloway Lighthouse
Why Join a Large Outdoors Scenic Walking Weekend?
Guided Walks: Expert guides ensure a safe, sociable, and enriching experience, sharing local insights and adjusting routes as needed.
Cosy Accommodation: Stay in comfortable, characterful lodgings that offer a great base for exploring.
Stress-Free Travel: With transport included from Carlisle station, all you need to focus on is enjoying the adventure.
Sociable Atmosphere: Meet a friendly group of walkers and enjoy shared meals, great company, and a relaxed pace.
Explore Hidden Gems: Discover the lesser-known beauty of Dumfries and Galloway, from coastal cliffs to ancient woodland trails.
Essential Information
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If you are driving or do not require the collection from Carlisle you can arrive any time from 5pm - the Large Outdoors host will be at the accommodation to welcome you.
Dinner will be served around 8pm so if you intend to arrive later than this, please ensure you have something to eat on the way.
Meeting Location:
New Town Hall
53 St John Street
Whithorn
DG8 8PDParking: Free parking is available at the accommodation.
Optional Pick Up:
We will be offering a free pick-up from Carlisle Train Station on Day 1. Pick up will be 13:00. This must be booked in advance either by selecting the option during checkout or by contacting the office.Drop off:
We will drop you off at Carlisle Train Station on Day 4 between 15:00 & 17:00 we always suggest purchasing an open ticket.Finish Time:
We aim to finish on the final day between 1pm and 3pm - the exact finish time may depend on the planned/chosen activity, group dynamic, weather conditions, whether the group chooses to grab a coffee or lunch together during/after, etc. If you’ve travelled via public transport, please ensure you book onward travel accordingly (i.e. an open return ticket), to allow for flexibility. -
Our group will be staying at the Whithorn Trust Bunkhouse, a cosy and well-equipped venue in the heart of historic Whithorn. This comfortable bunkhouse offers modern facilities and a welcoming base, perfect for exploring the area's rich history and beautiful surroundings.
New Town Hall
53 St John Street
Whithorn
DG8 8PDRoom Types:
You can book one of the following options, subject to availability:
Bed in a Shared Female Room
Bed in a Shared Male RoomAt this hostel there are primarily Shared Rooms, where you’ll be sharing a dorm room - usually with bunk beds - with other participants (room sizes vary and bathrooms are shared).
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Included:
3 nights’ hostel accommodation in Whithorn.
A Large Outdoors host/guide to welcome you, deal with meal preparation and the logistics for your experience.
Guided walks on 3 days (Day 2, 3 and Day 4).
All travel during the trip. Including optional free collection from Carlisle train station on Day 1 and drop off on Day 4. See Meeting time and Location tab for further details.
Home-cooked set 2-course dinners at the accommodation on Day 1 & Day 2.
A DIY breakfast each morning (toast, cereals, fruit and yoghurt provided).
A DIY packed lunch (sandwich and snacks) for Day 2 & 3’s walk. Please ensure you bring a lunch box or dry bag - to reduce waste, we do not supply cling film or sandwich bags.
Tea (including decaf and herbal options), coffee (including decaf option), and squash at the accommodation.
Bedding - but please bring a towel and don’t forget your own toiletries.
The chance to make new friends and meet like-minded people - Large Outdoors is all about making outdoor adventures sociable.
Pre-event support from the Large Outdoors team - give us a shout if there’s any advice or information you need and check out our Blog for useful articles too.
Not included:
Travel to and from the meeting location.
Lunch on Day 1 and Day 4
One evening meal in a local restaurant
Travel/activity insurance - we recommend having insurance to cover, at a minimum: cancellation and curtailment; medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation); personal accident; injury and death.
Any extra (i.e. not mentioned above in ‘Included’) excursions or activities that you may partake in which incur a cost.
Bottled water - tap water and squash are available at the accommodation, so please ensure you bring sufficient water bottles or carriers to fill up and take out with you.
Alcoholic drinks - please feel free to bring something with you to enjoy at the accommodation.
Any food, drinks or goods you choose to purchase at any shops, restaurant, pubs or cafés visited.
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Please see our General (Walking) Kit List.
The compulsory items are selected for your safety, which is of paramount importance to us at Large Outdoors. Each participant should be carrying the items listed.
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What level of fitness is needed?
This trip is graded as Leisurely Plus.
Click here to see Large Outdoors’ Experience Levels.
Can I attend on my own?
Absolutely. The majority of our participants are solo travellers and adventurers. Plenty of fun, laughter and numerous long-term friendships (and a few marriages!) have begun on Large Outdoors experiences since 2008, so there’s no need to feel worried about your first experience, or indeed trying a new type of outdoor activity, with us.Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not allowed on this experience, except for trained assistance dogs. If you wish to bring your trained assistance dog, please let us know in advance of booking so we can discuss the itinerary and any activity/equipment, and of course additional safety requirements or considerations that may be necessary.
Threave Castle in Dumfries & Galloway
The Joys of Walking in Dumfries and Galloway
Dumfries and Galloway is a walker’s paradise, offering a diverse landscape that feels like a world of its own. Located in Scotland’s southwest, this peaceful region is known for its unspoiled beauty, combining rugged coastlines, rolling hills, tranquil lochs, and ancient woodlands.
Coastal Wonders
The coastline of Dumfries and Galloway is a highlight, with its dramatic cliffs, sandy bays, and hidden coves. Walking along the Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s southernmost point, rewards you with sweeping sea views, opportunities to spot dolphins and seabirds, and a sense of pure tranquility.
Enchanting Woodlands and Wildlife
Step into the magical Wood of Cree, where moss-covered trees and cascading waterfalls create a fairytale-like atmosphere. This area is also a haven for wildlife, including red squirrels, otters, and a variety of birds, making every step a chance for discovery.
Powillimount Beach in Dumfries & Galloway
Lochs and History
Inland, the peaceful shores of Loch Trool provide a perfect backdrop for walking, with views of surrounding hills and woodland trails leading to Bruce’s Stone, commemorating Robert the Bruce’s historic victory in 1307.
Charming Villages
The region’s towns and villages, such as Portpatrick and Wigtown, offer a blend of history, culture, and hospitality. From the remains of Dunskey Castle to the bookshops of Wigtown, each stop along the way adds depth to the experience.
Why Walk Here?
The diversity of Dumfries and Galloway’s landscapes means there’s something for every walker, whether you prefer leisurely trails through woodlands, coastal paths with sea breezes, or routes steeped in history. The quietness of the region enhances its appeal, allowing you to truly connect with nature and leave behind the hustle of everyday life.
Walking in Dumfries and Galloway isn’t just about reaching a destination – it’s about soaking in the journey, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage.
This map is provided for guidance regarding the general location. For detailed meeting information, please refer to the 'Meeting Time & Location' section.