11 Free Days Out and Things to Do With Kids in Dumfries and Galloway (Updated 2025)
Ahoy there money-savvy adventurers.
If you're looking to for a fun and free day out, then check out these things to do with the kids in Dumfries and Galloway. Whether it's playing prisoners at Sanquhar Tolbooth Museum, or letting off steam at Galloway Forest Park, there's options here to suit all ages, whatever the weather.
I've tried to make sure that all the details on here are up to date, but please do double check on the websites I've linked to before you travel in case anything has changed. Especially important: double check parking costs to avoid any nasty surprises on a day out that was supposed to be cheap, and obviously, be careful if you're visiting places with kids, especially where the terrain is dangerous (ruins, cliffs, beaches, slippy paths etc).
Happy adventuring!
Lucy
A treasure trove of history, including fossil footprints and stone carvings. Check the website to find out when family activities are being held.
Wheelchair accessibile: Partly. Check the website for further details.
Originally built in the 17th century, it's former uses included criminal and debtors prison, and sheriff court. There's lots of original features to spot including original doorways, cell gate hinges, and the clocktower. The first floor is a gallery showcasing local artists.
Wheelchair accessibile: Partly. Check the website for further details.
A family friendly museum offering up knowledge on local history. Other highlights include mummified baby crocodiles, and a 110 year old piece of chocolate.
Wheelchair accessibile: Yes
Built in 1660, the house is now a museum of everyday life. See the kitchen, nursery and bedroom of a victorian home, and check out an early dentists surgery.
Housed in an 18th century watermill, visitors can see how Dumfries would have looked at the time of Robert Burns, with a gallery trail for kids including puzzles and jigsaws.
Explore the house where Robert Burns spent the last few years of his life before he died in 1796. The house shows how people lived in the 18th century.
Discover more about the towns history, and find out what it was like to be a prisoner in the jail.
Constructed in 1862, the building now contains a library, a wildlife interpretation room, and a small museum teaching local history. There's also the remains of an 18th century prison cell.
The first Dark Sky Park in the UK, it's a must for stargazers. In the daytime it's great for walking, cycling, There's a play area at Kirroughtree visitor centre.
A treasure trove of eclectic items, this small museum is packed with interesting things for everyone to enjoy.
Managed by the RSPB, enjoy the spectacular views over to Ireland, the Isle of Mann, Cumbria and Galloway as you try and spot some of the incredible wildlife.
Feeling a Little Frazzled?
Here's a few things I've made that'll hopefully make your life a little bit easier, a little bit more fulfilled, or simply a little bit more fun. Check out these bits along with loads of other parenting aids on the link below.
Make your little mermaid's party perfect with these personalised printables including invites, signs, bunting, crafts and games.
You know what the kids need? An epic activity pack! And it should be filled with easy activity ideas, and stickers, and personalised!
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