A small and picturesque town in the south of Scotland which was once proclaimed as the country’s food capital is essential anyone visitors to that neck of the woods. Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway is a town of just 4,000 but is home to more than 50 independent food businesses - making it a dream for foodies.
While visitors from outwith Scotland traditionally opt for Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Highlands, there are a huge amount of reasons to visit the southern regions. And Castle Douglas also has a lot more to offer than just food.
An 18th century market town, it is located around 18 miles from Dumfries along the A75, the town is a thriving centre for prosperous local farming. The Stewartry Agricultural Show is an annual event that takes place nearby in August.
Beside Castle Douglas is Carlingwark Loch, dotted with islands and great for boating and learning to sail and picnicking. There is a caravan park and kids’ playground by the loch and at the far end of the loch is National Trust for Scotland’s Threave Garden, House and Estate open to visitors all year.
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According to Visit Scotland, the town is like stepping back in time. The tourist website says: "Castle Douglas Food Town is a small market town in SW Scotland that has a unique shopping experience. This includes over 50 traditional local independent shops. 3 butchers, Delis, grocers and fish, independent fashion and accessory shops, books, chocolate producers, small family brewery, cafes, toys, gifts, children's wear, galleries, art, antiques and furniture."
On an island in the River Dee stands 14th century Threave Castle, the great fortress of the Douglases, which can be reached by ferry. Nearby is Threave Wildfowl Reserve, an important place for wintering wildfowl, where visitors can watch the birds from hides.
The main street in the town is King Street and here alone hosts three butchers, four bakeries, and plenty more shops, cafes and restaurants. Nearby is The Toffee Shop and just down the road from that is the local Glen Urr Ice Cream which has a secret family recipe for lemon curd ice-cream.
Visitors to the town can also be treated to a top class meal at Mr Pook’s Kitchen which is rated the town’s best eatery. The menu fuses classic French gastronomy with modern fermentation techniques and foraged ingredients. Venison, pheasant and Kirkcudbright scallops often appear on the menu, and local lamb is a speciality.
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