Part of
Heathhall Forest
Great location with lots to see and do
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Here are links to some of our favourite outdoor places to visit in and around Dumfries. Get in touch if you would like us to add your favourite!
Heathhall Forest
Great location with lots to see and do
scotland.forestry.gov.uk/visit/heathhall-forest
RSPB Mersehead
Always so much to see and do with a variety of children's activities running all year round. A firm favourite with lots of us here at Babes:
rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/m/mersehead/
Powillimount
We are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches near Dumfries. Within a half hour drive we have Sandyhills, Kippord, Rockcliffe and Carsethorn but our favourite has to be Powillimount. The amazing rock formations make for hours of imaginary play. Definitely worth a visit:
welcometoscotland.com/things-to-do/attractions/beaches/dumfries-galloway/powillimount-beach
Castle Corner
Past Glencaple is a great walk to do with little ones. An ancient forest and fantastic views over the Nith and Criffel:
dumfries-and-galloway.co.uk/walks/caerlaverock.html
Kilnford Barns
Not only a cafe with a fantastic play area for kids, Kilnford also has a lovely nature trail with a bird hide and farm animals to spot along the way.
kilnford.co.uk/farm-shop
Red kite feeding at Laurieston
Daily feeding of these magnificent creatures makes for a great trip out:
gallowaykitetrail.com/item-38-bellymack-hill-farm-kite-feeding-station
Mabie Forest
Just 5 minutes out of town is the beautiful Mabie forest. Great park, lots of picnic areas, walks, and a great stream for splashing. We often meet here if HQ is too muddy!
scotland.forestry.gov.uk/visit/mabie
WWT Caerlaverock
Swan feeding, an abundance of birds, badger den, walks, and a busy diary of events. Another fantastic place to visit on Dumfries' doorstep.
wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/caerlaverock/
Kirkconnell Flow Nature Reserve
Restored from its formerly damaged state, this site represents one of the most threatened habitats in the world. The sodden surface of the bog is a palette of green, purple and red shades of Sphagnum mosses and wet-loving plants, giving a sense of a remote wilderness among the busy surrounding fields. Colourful butterflies flit over the moss, whilst adders and lizards bask in the sunlight.
nnr-scotland.org.uk/kirkconnell-flow/
