The Local Area
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Dumfries and Galloway, the area around Sanquhar offers a rich blend of outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and cosmic curiosity. One of the most fascinating attractions is the Crawick Multiverse, a stunning land art installation created by renowned artist Charles Jencks. This vast outdoor space transforms a former coal mine into a thought-provoking experience inspired by astronomy, cosmology, and the interconnectedness of the universe. Visitors can walk among features representing galaxies, black holes, and superclusters, all while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside.
Image: https://www.crawickmultiverse.co.uk/
The region is also known for its exceptionally dark skies, making it a fantastic spot for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the night sky comes alive with stars, planets, and even the Milky Way visible in stunning detail. On particularly clear nights, you're in with a chance of witnessing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) — an awe-inspiring natural display of shifting green and purple light that occasionally graces the skies of southern Scotland. The Crawick Multiverse is an especially atmospheric place to take in the night sky, and it sometimes hosts stargazing events that combine science, art, and the wonders of the cosmos. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or simply captivated by the stars, this part of Scotland offers some of the best night sky experiences in the UK.
Image: https://www.visitscotland.com/
For those who love the outdoors, the area is a walker’s paradise. There are numerous local walks to suit every level of fitness and interest—from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging hikes across the Lowther Hills. The Southern Upland Way, one of Scotland’s great long-distance trails, passes right through the area, offering dramatic scenery and peaceful solitude. Wildlife is abundant, and walkers are often treated to sightings of red squirrels, deer, and a variety of birdlife.
Image: https://sobt.co.uk/walk-lowther-hill/
Image: https://www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk/
A short drive from Sanquhar brings you to the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle, a grand 17th-century pink sandstone mansion set amid the stunning Queensberry Estate. The castle, home to the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry, boasts lavish interiors, an impressive art collection including works by Rembrandt and Da Vinci, and beautifully maintained gardens. Beyond the castle itself, the estate offers woodland walks, cycle trails, a children’s adventure playground, and even salmon fishing opportunities, making it a great day out for families and history buffs alike.
Whether you’re gazing across the cosmic landscape of the Crawick Multiverse, walking under star-filled skies, or exploring historic estates and heather-covered hills, this area offers a memorable and diverse Scottish experience.