About Kirkcudbright
Kirkcudbright (pronounced kir–coo–bree) is one of Scotland’s most vibrant communities with events, exhibitions and activities taking place throughout the year. A lively fishing port, Kirkcudbright makes an ideal location for a weekend break or as a base to explore the beautiful south west of Scotland.
Surrounded by coasts and hills of outstanding natural beauty; ideal for cycling, gentle walking, challenging hiking or a lazy day at the beach. Visit to enjoy the spectacle of the tattoo, watch history come alive on historic tours and see the traditional Riding of the Marches. Experience the Art and Crafts Trail with over 100 venues, celebrate the great outdoors at the Country Fair, and indulge in great tastes at the Food Festival. On this website you will find our festivals and events calendar , most events are free and with free parking.
Established as a Royal Burgh in 1455, Kirkcudbright has always been supported by a busy fishing trade. Behind the harbour the streets have housed generations of creative artists, a tradition maintained today by a flourishing colony of painters and craftworkers. This has led to it being called “The Artists’ Town“. Other well known features of the town are the pastel coloured houses and wide streets, the wide selection of mainly family owned shops where almost everything can be got, and the free parking all over town.
Location
Kirkcudbright enjoys a sheltered position in the estuary of the River Dee on the north Solway shore. Only about 25 miles west of Dumfries the town is easily accessible from the M6/M74 motorway system and from Stranraer and the Irish Sea ferries.
The area offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, attractive coastal landscapes and safe country roads.
Holiday Accommodation
Set amidst beautiful coastal countryside there is a comprehensive selection of holiday accommodation both in the town and in farms and villages around us, including self catering cottages, bed & breakfast and hotels. Kirkcudbright is especially well served by a number on high quality caravan and camping sites. Special interest groups such as cyclists, walkers and motor cyclists are catered for in many establishments.
Activities
The area offers a wide range of activities for visitors and locals alike. These range from facilities to help you research your family tree to quiet country roads for walking or cycling, and golf and fishing are both on our doorstep. For the more energetic there is mountain biking, horse-riding and hillwalking. Our marina is very popular with visiting sailors offering one of the safest anchorages on the north Solway coast. If you are more adventurous Galloway Activity Centre hosts a wide range of activities.
Explore the Kirkcudbright Town Trail
A short but interesting walk around the scenic harbour town of Kirkcudbright.
https://scotlandstartshere.com/tours/kirkcudbright-town-trail/
Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities
Throughout the year, a wide variety of entertainment and events is organised by Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities, including the Kirkcudbright Country Fair and the Kirkcudbright Art and Crafts Trail.
Regular events include monthly Farmers’ and Producers’ Markets (March to December), an annual Plant Sale, monthly Car Boot Sales (May to September), Pipe Band and Scottish Nights, the Riding of the Marches, Historic Walks, and Maggie’s Tours historical enactments.
August hosts several highlight events, including the spectacular Parade Day, Floodlit Tattoo, and Classic Car Rally. Please see the Event Calendar for full details.
The Kirkcudbright Half Marathon will take place on 23rd May 2026.