Tucked along the estuary of the River Dee in Dumfries and Galloway, Kirkcudbright (pronounced kir-COO-bree) is a coastal gem that blends salty sea air, pastel-painted houses, and a proud artistic heritage.
This small but spirited town has long punched above its weight, earning the nickname “The Artists’ Town” thanks to a colony of painters, sculptors, and creatives who made it their muse from the late 19th century onwards.
Wander its pretty streets and you’ll see why.
Light bounces off the harbour, illuminating galleries and independent shops. The town’s charming Georgian and Victorian architecture provides a picturesque canvas in itself.
MacLellan’s Castle, a rugged 16th-century tower house in the town centre, stands as a reminder of its noble past — and provides the perfect backdrop for everything from art exhibitions to ghost stories.
At the heart of the town’s creative legacy is the Kirkcudbright Artists’ Colony, a group that included luminaries like E.A. Hornel (of Glasgow Boys fame), Jessie M. King, Charles Oppenheimer and the Scottish Colourists.
You can trace their legacy at the Kirkcudbright Galleries, housed in the former Town Hall, with changing exhibitions and a permanent collection celebrating the town’s artistic soul.
But Kirkcudbright isn’t stuck in the past. It also boasts a lively contemporary scene, featuring summer art trails, food festivals, quirky bookshops, artisan chocolatiers, and some of the best ice cream in southern Scotland. Don’t miss the lively harbour — still a working port — and the small but fascinating Stewartry Museum, which delves into local history, folklore, and natural heritage.
Getting Around
- By Car: Easily reached from Dumfries (28 miles) or Castle Douglas (10 miles).
All distances are approximate - By Bus: Local services connect to Dumfries and neighbouring towns.
- Walking: The town is compact—wander from the castle to the harbour to the galleries with ease.
- Cycling: Popular with leisure cyclists and part of local Galloway routes.
What to See
- MacLellan’s Castle – 16th-century tower house ruins in the town centre, once home to the Lords Kirkcudbright. Atmospheric and photogenic.
- The Stewartry Museum – A treasure trove of local history, archaeology, and the creative heritage of the region.
- The Harbour – A working harbour with fishing boats, yachts, and wide views of the tidal River Dee.
- Dark Space Planetarium – The Johnston, St Mary Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4EG
- Kirkcudbright Galleries – A contemporary art space celebrating the town’s historic and modern artists – featuring Jessie M. King, E. A. Hornel, and the Glasgow Boys.
Scottish Portrait Awards 2023 at the Kirkcudbright Galleries by the Scottish Arts Trust.
More Kirkcudbright Galleries
- The Whitehouse Gallery – 47 St Mary Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4DU
- High St. Gallery – 84 High Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4JL
- Kirkcudbright Tolbooth & Art Gallery – High Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4JL
- Harbour Cottage Gallery – Kirkcudbright DG6 4LD
- Julie Hollis Fine Art – Royal Garage, 10 Mews Lane, Kirkcudbright DG6 4HE
Accommodation in Kirkcudbright
Eating and Drinking
- The Auld Alliance Restaurant – 29 St Cuthbert Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4DX
- The Selkirk Arms Hotel & Restaurant – High Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4JG
- The Garret – 116 High Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4JQ
- Feast Cafe – 32 St Cuthbert Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4HZ
- Kirkcudbright Galleries Cafe – St. Mary Street, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4AA
Events
- Kirkudbright Jazz Festival – a celebration of New Orleans, Dixieland and Swing jazz.
- See our Jazz page.
Shopping
- rhubarb – Homware & Gifts – 25 St Mary Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4AA
- William Law – Outdoor Clothing and Bike Hire – 17 St Cuthbert Street, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4DJ
- Vintage Records – 34 St Mary Street, Kirkcudbright DG6 4DU