The South West Coastal 300 winds through Dumfries & Galloway and South Ayrshire through rolling hills and pretty towns and past striking cliffs and sandy beaches.
Its location in the south of Scotland make this tour easily accessible for anyone driving north from England. We recommend starting in Dumfries with a visit to the Robert Burns House and Museum with the option, later in your itinerary, to visit his birthplace and museum at Alloway. Heading west from Dumfries, along the Solway Coast and its stunning beaches, visit the Galloway’s Dark Sky Park, one of the best stargazing locations in UK.
Follow the coast to Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s most southerly point and Portpatrick where, on a clear day, you’ll see Northern Ireland over the Irish Sea. Head north into South Ayrshire for views of the island of Ailsa Craig and visit historic Culzean Castle, now under National Trust care. Take the coast road towards the traditional seaside town of Ayr before driving east and cross country back towards Dumfries. On the way you’ll find Scotland’s highest village, Wanlockhead, standing a heady 1,531 feet above sea level.
Sample Itinerary
Night 1: Starting from Dumfries, staying a night at the 3-star Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries, B&B in a Double Room
Start the day by visiting Robert Burns House then drive to Gatehouse of Fleet, along the stunning beaches of the Solway Coast. In the evening, visit the Dark Sky Park (Kirroughtree Visitor Centre).
Drive from Dumfries to Gatehouse of Fleet: approx. 41 miles
Night 2: Staying a night at the 4-star Cally Palace Hotel in Gatehouse of Fleet, B&B in a Forest Wing Double Room
Drive along the coast from Gatehouse of Fleet to Portpatrick via Mull of Galloway, the most southerly point of Scotland.
Drive from Gatehouse of Fleet to Portpatrick: approx. 110 miles
Night 3: Staying a night at the 3-star Fernhill Hotel in Portpatrick, B&B in a Classic Double Sea View Room
Drive from Portpatrick to New Cumnock, on the way visit Culzean Castle and Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway.
Drive from Portpatrick to New Cumnock: approx. 90 miles
Night 4: Staying a night at the 4-star Lochside House Hotel in New Cumnock, B&B in a Classic Double Room
Drive back to Dumfries via Wanlockhead, Scotland’s highest village and charming villages of Moffat and Lockerbie.
Drive from New Cumnock to Dumfries, via Wanlockhead: approx. 70 miles
Example prices start from £320 per person in low season.
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