Things to do | Cumnock Knowes

Carminnows house is located in the Glenkens, the wildest and largest glen in Dumfries & Galloway, set in a landscape shaped by glaciers with rocky ridges and glacial deposits. The area has remained relatively unspoilt, and a wide variety of fantastic wildlife abounds within the spectacular landscape which ranges from mountains and moorland, woodland and forest, punctuated by burns, river, lochs and farmland.

Carminnows provides a perfect retreat in which to relax and unwind. It is situated in the Galloway Dark Sky Park, which is world renowned for its clear skies, and is one of the best stargazing sites as well as the first Dark Sky Park in the UK.
Dumfries and Galloway is an area hugely popular with walkers and mountain bikers, and the 7Stanes cycling trail at Dalbeattie is within easy reach.

Warmed by the Gulf Stream, the area is home to many beautiful gardens, including the National Trust’s Threave Gardens and Port Logan Botanical Garden

Whilst in a delightful rural location, the property is an ideal base from which to explore the many little villages and towns in Dumfries and Galloway. Discover the delightful villages of Kippford, Rockcliffe and Sandyhills right on the coast. Castle Douglas, known as the ‘Food Town’ is a short drive away, renowned for its niche shopping and family-run food outlets. Kirkcudbright, known as ‘the artists’ town’, attracts visitors throughout the year who are drawn in by the harbour, the historic high street and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions. The popular programme of summer festivities culminates with the spectacular Tattoo, an event not to be missed.
A short drive will take you into Ayrshire, home to the Ayrshire Coastal Path, a 100-mile long coastal walk with one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters and seals; it is also a haven for bird watchers.
Inland, there are gardens and castles to visit and activities such as riding, racing and golf to enjoy. The many golf courses include the world famous Turnberry course which is close at hand, and which also has a fantastic spa and outdoor centre. Culzean Castle (owned by the National Trust for Scotland) is spectacular, and is Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attraction.
Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan, while Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are also easily reached for a day out, as is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, with ferry links to the islands of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae all within easy reach.