Out and about at the Palace

We’ve recently been looking at everything going on around the Coo Palace site, including taking a dive into the history of this beautiful building. But what was it about this part of Scotland which inspired so much devotion from the original owner, James Brown?

We think the answer to this becomes apparent as soon as you arrive. With spectacular views of blue, sparkling waters and magnificent countryside, it’s easy to see why this landscape has captured people’s imagination for centuries. Coo Palace is surrounded by rugged coastline and untamed countryside, all full to the brim with things to discover. Visitors can take their pick from sunny beaches, rolling hills and shaded forest trails, all rich with life and history.

But don’t take our word for it! Just take a look at these breathtaking views from Coo Palace itself:

For those who like to get out in the fresh air during their break, the beautiful local area has plenty of opportunities for walking and cycling, with several national cycle routes passing right through the region. Meanwhile, nature-lovers will love a visit to Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve, just 25 minutes away by car. This is the largest Local Nature Reserve in Britain and contains precious habitat for a number of bird and animal species, including Barnacle geese, Oystercatchers and Otters. The River Bladnoch, which runs through the reserve, is protected for its spring run of Salmon.

Adrenaline-seekers can also pay a visit to a local outdoor activity centre. Laggan Outdoor, just under 20 minutes drive from Coo Palace, offers archery, grass sledging, segway tours and one of Europe’s longest zip wires!

Of course, this is just the start of things to enjoy in this stunning part of Scotland. The charming town of Kirkcudbright is just a 20-minute drive away. Full of independent retailers, galleries and workshops, pubs and cafes and fascinating historical sites, there’s no shortage of things to do here. You can spend a happy day nipping in and out of the local boutiques, enjoying the wide streets and friendly atmosphere before finding a restaurant or café serving plenty of tasty local produce.

The town also has a variety of festivals and other entertainment running throughout the year. Summer visitors can indulge their taste buds at Kirkcudbright’s famous Food Festival, while guests staying during October will be dazzled by the Kirkcudbright Festival of Light Illuminaire. Find out more about events happening throughout the year here.

Another popular stop is Kirkcudbright harbour, which is currently the 5^th busiest fishing port in Scotland and the 9^th in the UK. Meanwhile, the marina is a peaceful place to stop and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic town… as well as admire some charming beach huts and sculptures!

One of Kirkcudbright's most iconic buildings is MacLennan’s Castle. Built in the late 1500s by Sir Thomas MacLennan, this is the perfect example of how castles changed from defensive forts to more domestic buildings. Today the ground floor of the building is still mostly complete, right up to the vaulted ceilings, while the roof of the first floor is sadly no longer intact. Still, visitors can see how the family servants lived and even seek out the laird’s lug; a secret spyhole once used to spy on guests! The castle is looked after by Historic Environment Scotland, and you can buy tickets in advance here.

Another nearby Historic Environment Scotland property is Dundrennan Abbey, which is just 30 minutes by car from Coo Palace. Nestled in a peaceful woodland, this elegant site contains some of the best-preserved late 12th-century Cistercian architecture in Scotland. Although now in ruin, the abbey is famous for being the sanctuary of Mary Queen of Scotts during her last hours in Scotland. Tickets can be booked in advance online.

Last but not least, Cairn Holy Chambered Cairns are just a 20-minute drive from Coo Palace. These man-made stone monuments were built all the way back in the 4^th millennium BC, with an impressive view over Wigtown bay. The first of the Cairns is more elaborate than the second, although this simpler Cairn is said to be the final resting place of mythical Scottish king Galdus.

From nature lovers to adventure seekers and history fanatics, everyone will find something to capture their interest during their stay at Coo Palace. After all, there has to be a reason that this area has one of the highest rates of returning visitors in Scotland! We’re excited to share all of this and more with our guests when Coo Palace opens in 2020, so find out how you can enjoy a stay today.