Kirkcudbright is an attractive fishing town by the River Dee estuary on the Solway Firth. With a laid-back atmosphere, a mixture of fine Georgian and Victorian architecture on wide inviting streets and the pastel hued fishing cottages around the back streets of the harbour, makes Kirkcudbright an appealing destination for artists (hence its name ‘The Artists Town’).

Kirkcudbright lies on the Solway coast and is approached by country roads and rolling hillsides. A conservation park on the outskirts houses a vast array of animals from all over the world in a managed, woodland environment.

The peaceful surroundings are the perfect setting for cycling, fishing and pony trekking, as well as a number of golf courses in the area. If you don’t fancy venturing too far, the exquisite Broughton House provides a tranquil haven just outside the town. This 18th Century building was once owned by legendary painters ‘The Glasgow Boys’ and has a fascinating collection of ceramics, furniture, paintings and Japanese inspired gardens.

Kirkcudbright is a thriving harbour town, with regular farmers'' markets and a whole host of festivals and events throughout the year. The Kirkcudbright Country Fair, food festival, Arts and Crafts Trail and Classic Car Rally will suit most visitors, with the fun-loving festival atmosphere a part of the town''s heritage and charm.

There are plenty of good places to eat if you want to dine out or maybe indulge in a Cream O’ Galloway dessert at the local dairy and ice-cream parlour?

For a truly inspiring holiday with plenty of artisan appeal, search for cottages in Kirkcudbright.