Top 5 Things To Do During Your Barend Stay
To introduce our new “Things To Do Nearby” section on our website, we thought that a quick summary of our “5 favourite things to do locally” would be a great way to go about it.
The idea behind our “things to do nearby” section is to supply all of our guests with some inspiration on what you could get up to during your stay at Barend Holiday Lodges, to save you the hassle! We have split the section into 9 subcategories being outdoor activities, wildlife & nature, family fun, castles & history, food & drink, museums & culture, tours, shopping and dining. Therefore we hope that there’s something there for everyone!
Dumfries & Galloway has a vast array of things to see and do, meaning that we will be aiming to regularly update this section of the website as we are aware that we’ve probably missed out quite a few suggestions by accident! For this reason, please do not be offended if we haven’t mentioned your business as we are probably aiming to add it to the list soon.
Also, a quick disclaimer before we begin, these reviews and recommendations are completely our own, we just love to support other local businesses!
1. Cocoabean Chocolate Factory
To land the number 1 spot, has to be The Cocoabean Chocolate Factory. (20 miles from Barend). The Cocoabean is a family-run chocolate factory which has both indoor and outdoor play areas as well as interactive chocolate making workshops (for ages 2-18). However, adults can also join in on the fun too with family workshops or adult’s chocolate making workshops. If the chocolate making isn’t really your thing, then the cafe might just be… The Cocoabean is always coming up with new and quirky ideas, recently introducing their “summer picnic benches” (see their facebook for a picture, as well as their recent events for further information) where you are served a three course themed menu on a little table-top picnic bench. (Definitely one for instagram!). Got a sweet tooth? Then a luxury hot chocolate or a chocolate fondue might be more up your street… The Chocolate Factory is a great day out for anyone.
2. Bainloch deer park.Truly magical experience for all the family. Bainloch is home to large herds of deer including the majestic red deer stag. Bainloch has also recently opened a brand new visitor centre and cafe offering a large range of yummy light bites and hot beverages. Sit back and relax whilst taking in the panoramic views across the park. We definitely recommend a visit whilst you are in the area.
3. Sandyhills Beach
How could we do a “top 5” list without mentioning our gorgeous local beach? Which is luckily just a 5 minute walk from the holiday village… Sandyhills is a great go-to if the weather is nice. Take your family down for a picnic or an icecream, or treat the dogs to a morning beach walk! There’s also the option to take the coastal walk along to Rockcliffe beach (3.1 miles) or even further along to Kippford (4.4 miles) where you could grab a bite to eat at the popular Anchor Hotel.
4. Cream O’Galloway
An ice cream factory and farm, Cream O’Galloway is a fun day out for all the family! (30 miles from Barend) Kids and grownups can enjoy the walks and nature trails. Aside from outdoor activities, you can see how the famous Cream O’Galloway ice cream and cheese is made and even meet the cows themselves! There is a tearoom, shop and picnic area on site. Dogs are allowed on some of the nature trails, the large enclosed dog walking area & picnic area.
5. Caerlaverock Castle
To nab the final spot on our Top 5 list, is one for the history lovers… Caerlavorock Castle. (26 miles from Barend) This is known as one of Scotland’s great medieval fortresses, with its unique triangular shape and moat. You can learn about the castles role in the border conflicts and explore the nearby nature trails. Kids can enjoy taking part in special quizzes, interactive displays and even dressing up before exploring the castle-themed adventure park. If you time it right you might catch some battle re-enactments and jousting! Dogs are welcome.
