From historic homes associated with celebrated poets to independent bookshops and literary festivals, Dumfries and Galloway in south-west Scotland offers several attractions for readers and writers. The region has been named one of National Geographic’s 25 Best of the World destinations for 2027, alongside places such as Melbourne, Jaipur and Puerto Rico. Here are three literary attractions worth exploring.

1. Wigtown: Scotland’s National Book Town

Wigtown is home to numerous independent bookshops and an annual book festival that attracts writers, readers and cultural figures. Designated Scotland’s National Book Town in 1998, it has built its identity around books and literary tourism. Visitors can browse its bookshops or experience running one through The Open Book’s bookshop residency.

2. Ellisland Farm: Robert Burns’s Writing Home

Located near Dumfries, Ellisland Farm was built by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788 for his wife, Jean Armour, and their family. Burns wrote several celebrated works there, including Auld Lang Syne and Tam o’ Shanter. The historic property is now the focus of a £12 million fundraising campaign to preserve the site and develop its visitor experience.

3. Caerlaverock Castle: A Connection to Walter Scott

The medieval Caerlaverock Castle, known for its distinctive triangular structure, has a literary connection through Sir Walter Scott. National Geographic identifies it among the region’s attractions linked to Scotland’s literary heritage.

With its historic literary sites, bookshops and annual festival, Dumfries and Galloway offers visitors more than scenic landscapes. Its inclusion on National Geographic’s 2027 list brings international attention to a region where Scotland’s literary past and contemporary book culture remain part of its appeal.

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