The sun has made a welcome return to Barend

Children big and small are out playing on our nearby beach at Sandyhills as the sun has made its return. But once you've had enough of the beach, here are some great activities for the whole family to enjoy during September 2023. And remember, this list is not exhaustive. Dumfries and Galloway is a busy place, so watch out for posters locally during your stay at Galloway Lodges and bookmark this page for potential updates.

Saturday 2nd September - Nithraid Dumfries

The Nith is the river running through Dumfries, right out to the sea via Glencaple and Kingholm Quay. Nithraid is the annual River Race celebrating the region's rich maritime history with participants taking part in rowing boats, sailing boats and other fanciful craft. Join the crowds - or, indeed, the participants! - at Whitesands in Dumfries between 12.30pm and 4pm. Visit The Stove Network's website for more information: https://thestove.org/nithraid/.

Sunday 3rd September - Family Cyclocross Festival

A fun day out for all the family is promised at Lochside Park, Castle Douglas, with cyclocross races, pop-up clowning, entertainment, producers' stalls, street food and competitions. Starts at 11.00am. Admission free. Keep up-to-date with information on the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/BikeandFoodCD/.

Friday 8th September - Stories of Scotland with Bruce Fummey

Bruce Fummey, Scottish Comedian of the Year in 2014, will be delighting the audience in Dumfries with his funny "Stories of Scotland" show. A great evening if you want to learn more about Scotland's past, but viewed from a humorous angle. Find more information at https://www.theatreroyaldumfries.co.uk/whats-on/stories-scotland.

Saturday 9th September - Dalbeattie Forest Westie Walk

Are you bringing your Westie on holiday with you to Galloway Lodges? If so, this is an event you can't afford to miss where Westie owners from around the region will be taking them for a walk through the Dalbeattie Forest. Join in between 12.00pm and 5.00pm. For more information, please call Sarah Morris on 07718 236785 or send her an email to Sarahheathhall@gmail.com.

Friday 15th to Sunday 17th September - Stranraer Oyster Festival

Somewhat further afield, but well worth a visit, lies the capital of the west of Dumfries and Galloway, Stranraer, where a highly successful annual Oyster Festival has taken place for several years now. With celebrity chefs, the Scottish oyster shucking championship, many family activities and an Artisan Market, the entrance fee of £12 will give you access to a wonderful and very different day out. Full details and tickets are available online at www.stranraeroysterfestival.com.

Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September - Kirkcudbright Kite Festival

This is now an annual event in Scotland's Artists' Town of Kirkcudbright with giant kite displays where you can also try making your own kite or flying some exciting kites – all for free! There will also be children’s entertainment and refreshments. Find more information at http://www.kirkcudbright.town/events.

Throughout September - Scotland's Gardens Scheme

We love to promote the Scotland's Gardens Scheme where everyday gardeners with a passion for sharing their beautiful gardens with the public open their gates. The small entrance fee charged goes to a charity of their choosing. Our garden choice for the month of September lies very close to Galloway Lodges in Barend at Savat, Meikle Richorn, Dalbeattie DG5 4QT, the home of George Thomas and is open Fridays to Mondays inclusive. You can find more information on the Scotland's Gardens Scheme website or contact Mr Thomas directly: T: 01556 612863 Mob: 07866 392150 or E: georgethomas6@icloud.com.