What's on
Do you want to know what’s on during your stay - or an idea of what there is to see and do in the local area? Then we’ve got you covered. Here on this page, we’ll be keeping you up to date with local events, places to visit and just about anything we think our guests would be interested in. In 2023 Lonely Planet listed Dumfries and Galloway as one of their Top 30 destinations - you can see some of their top recommendations here
Summer 2026
The Gralloch - Scotland's Gravel Festival 15th-17th May
Britain’s premier gravel cycling festival, three days of gravel racing, Sportives, Ultra, music, food, adventure and more. Celebrating endurance, adventure and world-class riding in the heart of Scotland.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Galloway Forest Park, the weekend offers something for every kind of rider: a UCI Gravel World Series race, the new 330-kilometre Ultra, and a non-competitive Sportive for those who prefer to take in the views at their own pace.
But The Gralloch is more than just riding. Across the weekend you’ll find shakeout rides, panel talks, live music, local food, craft beer and a buzzing Event Village in the heart of Gatehouse of Fleet.
Spring Fling - Scotland’s Premier Art and Craft Open Studios Event 23rd-25th May
Spring Fling Open Studios returns for its biggest year to date, bringing together 111 artist studios across Dumfries & Galloway. This year features more studios than ever before, with a vibrant mix of returning favourites and artists taking part for the first time.
Artists and makers work across contemporary visual art and craft practices including painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, photography, jewellery, glass, wood, metal and mixed media.
The 2026 programme also reflects a growing presence of installation, experimental and digitally led work, alongside highly skilled, material-based practice.
South Scotland Outdoor Festival 26th-28th June
Set within the magnificent grounds of Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries & Galloway, the South Scotland Outdoor Festival invites adventurers, families, and nature lovers to immerse themselves in a weekend of outdoor excitement. Explore miles of scenic estate trails through ancient woodland and open countryside, join expert-led walks and rides, try hands-on activities, and discover wellbeing experiences inspired by the landscapes of South Scotland, all in the spectacular setting of one of Scotland’s most iconic historic estates.
Lloyds National Gravel Championship 22nd-23rd August
The Lloyds National Gravel Championships will take place in Ae Forest in Scotland in what looks to be a thrilling weekend of action. Elite open and elite female races will take place on Sunday 23rd with youth, junior and masters' races also on offer throughout the weekend, allowing riders to enter the history books in the chance to secure the first striped jersey in gravel.
KircudbrightDark Space Planetarium
Kirkcudbright Planetarium hosts a variety of special events, lectures, workshops, and guest talks. They also have regular cinema screenings to be enjoyed in the Planetarium.
Closeburn Castle Ghost Hunt
Join Haunted Rooms at Closeburn Castle for a night of ghost hunting you'll not soon forget! This castle, dating back to the mid-13th century / early 14th century and nestled within 20 acres of the secluded Scottish countryside, is the oldest tower house in Scotland and one of the oldest continuously inhabited buildings in the country.
Star Gazing Nights - Dark Sky Park, Galloway Forest
With early nights and crisp skies, Winter is prime time for celestial wonders. Add blankets and flasks for a magical evening at Galloway International Dark Sky Park.
Wild Swan Feeds
(Temporarily Closed until Spring 2026)
WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre, Eastpark Farm, Caerlaverock, Dumfriesshire, DG1 4RS
Experience the sights and sounds of hundreds of swans, ducks and geese at the daily swan feeds! Plus a variety of changing exhibitions and events held throughout the year
Scotland’s Gardens Scheme - gardens open for charity
There are lots available, so please check the website for latest information on opening www.scotlandsgardens.org
Please check before visiting any of the events for costs and if booking is necessary.
Some other sites which you may find useful when planning your stay include:
Things to do and see in Dumfries & Galloway
Regularly updated with lots of information about events in Dumfries & Galloway
Dumfries & Galloway! What's going on?
Upcoming events in Dumfries & Galloway