Dumfries & Stewartry Sub-Branch

Campaign for Real Ale

Campaign for Real Ale

Pub Guide

  • Annan
    • Bluebell Inn 10 High Street Annan DG12 6AG Telephone(01461) 202385

      A former coaching inn dating from 1770 at the western entrance to the town. The Blue Bell is in a red sandstone building and is a busy, friendly pub offering up to four real ales. The pub is home to many community activities along with annual beer (late August Bank Holiday) and cider festivals. There are traditional features in the Blue Bell, notably the inter-war panelling on the walls and the bar counter. These are retained from its time as a State Management Scheme pub from 1917 to 1972 . The courtyard to the rear of the pub features the original stables and also provides a pleasant seated area. The Blue Bell has an on-site brewery called Mote & Bailey. The beer range varies and may include seasonal specials as well as one off brews. Mote & Bailey beers are only in the Blue Bell and are not supplied elsewhere but are not always available. Real or bottled cider may be available. CAMRA Dumfriesshire Area Pub of the Year 2024, 2023 Bus services connect Annan with Dumfries, Lockerbie, Gretna and Carlisle.

  • Carsethorn
    • Steamboat Inn Carsethorn DG2 8DS Telephone(01387) 880631

      Enjoys an excellent reputation for its food. A world-class view overlooking the Nith Estuary and Solway Firth. On a clear day the mountains of the North Lakes are clearly visible on the English side of the Firth. The view up the Nith is just as good. Carsethorn is a former fishing village that was once a major point of emigration. Not too far away is the birthplace of John Paul Jones, founder of the US Navy, as the RSPB Reserve at Mersehead. Bus service to either Dumfries or Dalbeattie.

  • Castle Douglas
    • Sulwath Brewery Tap Room 209 King Street Castle Douglas DG7 1DT Telephone(01556) 504525

      The visitor centre for Sulwath Brewery acts as a showcase for the brewery's beers with four in cask conditioned form. At times there may be guest beers from elsewhere. One cider, usually from Westons is also available. Dried hop bines decorate the walls and old wooden casks of various sizes provide some of the furniture. Brewery tours are available Monday and Friday. Occasional Sunday opening for special events which are usually published on Facebook.

  • Clarencefield
    • Farmers Inn Main Street Clarencefield DG1 4NF Telephone(01387) 870675

      A 300 year old village inn run personally by the proprietors. It is a real village pub with a good atmosphere and service. The building has a small bar and lounge with a separate games room that also houses the village Post Office. 2019 CAMRA Dumfriesshire Area Pub of the Year. The bar has a cosy feel about it which is enhanced by a nice warming stove in winter. The inn is close to the Savings Bank Museum at Ruthwell and the 8th century Ruthwell Cross. Robert Burns visited this inn during his ill-fated attempt to recuperate at nearby Brow Well in July 1796. There is a regular bus service to Annan or Dumfries. Winter opening times may vary.

  • Dalry
    • Clachan Inn 8-10 Main Street Dalry DG7 3UW Telephone(01644) 430241

      Winner of CAMRA Pub of the Year, Dumfries and Galloway Stewartry, 2024.

      The Clachan has a reputation for excellent food, cosy, well-equipped bedrooms and a welcoming atmosphere.The menu is varied with excellent daily specials and the kitchen makes use of local produce including organic lamb and venison. The pub has an attractive traditional main bar, a relaxing lounge bar and a separate restaurant - both bars have wonderfully warming open log fires in winter. A handy stop for walkers on the Southern Upland Way. There is a limited daytime bus service to Castle Douglas from Monday to Saturday. Twice a day there is a connecting service to Ayr via Dalmellington. There is no bus service on Sunday. Winter opening hours may vary. CAMRA Stewartry Area Pub of the Year 2023.

  • Dumfries
    • Cavens Arms 20 Buccleuch Street Dumfries DG1 2AH Telephone(01387) 252896

      Winner CAMRA Pub of the Year, Dumfries Town area, 2024.

      Busy food-oriented pub that is popular with diners for its range of good-value meals. Drinkers are welcomed in the bar area but seating can be limited during food service times. Outside, accessed by stairs or from the Whitesands is an outdoor area including a covered “barn”. Guest ales are from a wide range of breweries, including some rarely seen in this locality. Serves five regular beers and three guests. CAMRA Local branch Pub of the Year 2022.

    • Coach & Horses 66 Whitesands Dumfries DG1 2RS Telephone07746 675349

      A small, lively former coaching inn overlooking the River Nith. Situated next to the Tourist Information Centre, the pub is close to local bus routes, is handy for local tourist attractions and there is car parking nearby. There is one handpump on the small bar which can feel cramped but service is always quick. The bar features a flagstone floor with a warming open fire during the colder months. There is a great atmosphere in this gem of a pub which is enhanced on regular live music sessions. Winter opening times may differ from those displayed. It is advisable to contact the pub in advance if you are planning a visit during the winter months.

    • Douglas Arms 75 Friars Vennel Dumfries DG1 2RQ Telephone(01387) 248236

      Always a popular venue. A traditional town centre bar with a warming fire in winter and a cosy snug. Recently refurbished. The choice of available beers, often from smaller less well known breweries, reflect the care taken by the Licensee to give real ale drinkers something different. This pub makes full use of Facebook to inform about its beer choices. Dumfries & Stewartry overall winner Pub of the Year 2023

    • Fleshers Arms 48 Loreburn Street Dumfries DG1 1HJ Telephone(01387) 256461

      Popular pub situated between the station and the town centre, now reopened by the previous licensee of the Tam O’Shanter. Large bar with modern seating to one side, and a pool table in a separate area to the rear of the large single room. The building is reputed to be the oldest in Loreburn Street and was so named because of the proximity to a slaughterhouse – long gone.

    • Globe Inn (High St) 56 High Street Dumfries DG1 2JA Telephone(013873) 23010

      The Globe dates from 1610 and is the oldest pub in Dumfries. It has a close association with Scotland's national Bard, Robert Burns, who was a frequent visitor. The pub is home to the world-famous 'Burns Howff Club' and holds lots of memorabilia associated with the Bard. Visitors can visit the rooms which were associated with Burns by arrangement. This is a busy town centre pub, situated up a short close off the High Street. It has a public bar with dining area and an adjoining small snug bar. It is steeped in tradition. Occasionally functions are held here so it advisable to check if it is open for general use before visiting.

    • Pleuchie's Howff 97 Annan Road Dumfries DG1 3EW Telephone(01387) 268704

      A family owned pub beyond Dumfries town centre that is a 10 minute walk from the railway station. There is a large public area that has an attractive island bar and a warming stove fire. Comfortable seating can be found on one side of the bar and a sports area with TV on the other side. The dining room has a small bar which will serve ales into the eating area as and when required. Pleuchie is a name for a ploughman or a person from the countryside and a Howff is a favourite meeting place or haunt.

    • Riverside Bar Dock Park Dumfries DG1 2RY Telephone(01387) 254477

      The Riverside Bar is an established venue on the Dumfries real ale scene. Comfortable and friendly, it has seating on two levels and a large conservatory. Three outside seating areas include a terrace with open views over the Dock Park and access to walks both sides of the River Nith. The pub is accessible from the St Michaels area near Robert Burns Mausoleum or from Dock Park. Guest beers are sourced throughout the UK..

    • Riverside Tap Friars Vennel Dumfries DG1 2RQ Telephone07726 928724

      Single room bar, with outside tables on pavement, and rear partly covered beer garden, specialising in imported beers as well as ciders from UK (including Scotland). Real Ale is available from one hand pump with up to 10 keg beer lines. Extensive range of bottled and canned beers, mini kegs, and take-out containers. Coffee shop ambience, currently unique for Dumfries, with sofas and soft chairs, and absence of loud music. Available beers can be viewed via DigitalPour app and in-house. Wines, spirits and soft drinks also available. Occasional events including live music/poetry etc. Popular with people who like a conversation, including families, and older professionals, and those interested in the very wide range of available beers and styles.

      Beer is sold in 1/3 and 2/3 pint glasses, equating to £ 7.50 a pint.

    • Robert The Bruce 81 Buccleuch Street Dumfries DG1 2AB Telephone(01387) 270320

      This former Methodist Church, sensitively converted by Wetherspoon in 2001, has a relaxed atmosphere and is a popular meeting place in the town centre. There is a pleasant outside seating area to the rear. The pub stands near the site where Robert the Bruce killed John Comyn in 1306 in an incident linked to Scotland’s fight for independence. The food menu offers a range of good value meals served all day, every day. Alcohol is served from 10am.Three changing beers are available. It was the Local CAMRA Dumfries and Stewartry Branch Cider Pub of the Year 2019.

    • Ship Inn 97 St Michael Street Dumfries DG1 2PY Telephone(01387) 270764

      A small traditional pub which is popular with locals and which offers a friendly welcome to visitors. It consists of a front bar with a small rear lounge area. Situated directly opposite the historic St Michael's Kirkyard where Robert Burns is buried and is within 300 yards of Burns House where the poet spent the last few years of his life.

    • Swan Hotel Kingholm Quay Dumfries DG1 4SU Telephone(01387) 253756

      A pleasant walk along the River Nith from the centre of Dumfries will bring you to the Swan which is beside the quay in Kingholm Quay.  A busy, food orientated family friendly pub which is renowned for its good honest pub food, served in a welcoming atmosphere.  The pubs renovation is a bright and modern look with a large dog friendly beer garden and play area for children.  Drinkers are welcomed and an area within the pub is set aside for this purpose. One real ale is on offer in this pub and is usually from Sulwath. There are two log burning stoves

    • Tam O'Shanter 113-117 Queensberry Street Dumfries DG1 1BH Telephone(01387) 256696

      Three changing beers (sourced locally; often Sulwath, Five Kingdoms) Established in 1630, this 17th century coaching inn with a connection to Robert Burns has been a mainstay of the Dumfries beer scene for many years. Situated just off the High Street the pub has been refurbished to an aesthetically pleasing standard without ruining the traditional bar. Brand new toilets for all genders on ground floor. Twin booth snug is lovely with the stove made into a glass fronted feature. There is an updated outdoor smoking/vaping area.

  • Ecclefechan
    • Ecclefechan Hotel High Street Ecclefechan DG11 3DF Telephone(01576) 300213

      Family run hotel in a listed building dating from 1730's, offering Bed and Breakfast accommodation, home-cooked meals and a varied selection of real ales. A major refurbishment programme has been implemented, with two real fires ensuring a cosy welcome. Ecclefechan is a picturesque village, visited by Robert Burns, and the birthplace of Thomas Carlyle. It is a convenient stop for travellers being close to Junction 19 of the M74.

  • Gatehouse of Fleet
    • Masonic Arms 10 Ann Street Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2HU Telephone(01557) 814335

      Built by local Masons in 1785, the pub is situated just off the east end of the main street in Gatehouse of Fleet, a lovely traditional village in the heart of the Stewartry. Exposed beams are a feature in the comfortable bar area along with a real fire. Good, locally sourced food is served in the bar as well as the conservatory and restaurant. There are daily specials, a weekly curry night and a popular Sunday carvery. Winter food and opening times may vary., so you are advised to phone the pub in advance if you are planning a visit.

  • Haugh of Urr
    • Laurie Arms Hotel 11-13 Main Street Haugh of Urr DG7 3YA Telephone(01556) 660246

      A welcoming family-run pub on the main street of this charming, quiet village in the scenic valley of the River Urr. It has a good village-pub atmosphere, enhanced on cold winter nights by the warming log fire in the bar. The pub is an important part of the local community and has a small number of events including a monthly Luncheon Club. Milk and newspapers are sold on a daily basis and the pub is used as a Post Office on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. CAMRA Stewartry Area Pub of the Year 2022.

      Winter changing beers may only be 2 The pub is on the bus route between Dumfries, Dalbeattie and Castle Douglas. There is a regular service during the day, less frequent in the evening and very limited on Sunday. Natlonal Cycle Route Seven is 50 metres from the pub. The pub closes for a week in early January

  • Kippford
    • Anchor Hotel Kippford DG5 4LN Telephone(01556) 620205

      On the main street in the heart of this popular sailing centre, this friendly inn has fine views over the Urr estuary. The small cosy bar is warmed by a lovely open log fire in winter. When the weather is warm and sunny there can be no greater pleasure in life than sitting at an outside table watching the world go by. Winter opening times may vary. One changing beer in winter, and winter hours may vary. Please check before visiting.

      Currently has one hand pump.

  • Kirkcudbright
    • Kirkcudbright Bay Hotel 25 St Cuthbert Street Kirkcudbright DG6 4DJ Telephone(01557) 339544

      Family run hotel in the centre of Kirkcudbright with a friendly traditional bar as well as a snug. There is a restaurant area within a purpose-built conservatory. Locally caught seafood features on the menu. There is a seating area outside that also incorporates an external bar. Beers from Five Kingdom Brewery available all year round are enjoyed by a friendly clientele.

      September 2024: "Our restaurant is currently closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays". See website or phone for updates.

    • Masonic Arms 19 Castle Street Kirkcudbright DG6 4JA Telephone(01557) 330517

      This well located and friendly pub in the town has been a firm favourite with real ale enthusiasts for many years. There is a smaller back bar and a garden with a smoking area. A wide selection of more than 50 malt whiskies and over 250 gins is available, as well as a good selection of world beers. Serves one real ale year round with two in summer months.

    • Selkirk Arms Hotel High Street Kirkcudbright DG6 4JG Telephone(01557) 330402

      Refurbished 18th-century hotel with a restaurant, bistro and lounge bar, renowned for locally sourced food. The large garden area with tables is popular in summer. Robert Burns wrote his famous Selkirk Grace at the hotel in 1794. Kirkcudbright is notable for its artistic heritage and houses a number of interesting galleries and museums. Two real ales are available, sometimes three in summer. The bar features a good selection of malt whiskies and gins. Booking for meals almost essential due to demand unless eating in the garden.

  • Langholm
    • Douglas Hotel 86 High Street Langholm DG13 0DH Telephone(013873) 81547

      Douglas Hotel is a family run former coaching inn located on the High Street in the picturesque border town of Langholm. Langholm is known locally as ‘The Muckle Toon’ (muckle is a Scottish word meaning ‘large’) as historically, the town was a large woollen textile manufacturing centre. The cosy public bar, entered from the High Street, has a traditional feel with many original features. It can be very busy at weekends. Bus services connect Langholm with Canonbie, Carlisle and Longtown. This is route X95 which travels between Carlisle and the Border Towns. It is possible to get a 112 bus from Lockerbie to Eskdalemuir which connects with the 124 bus to Langholm. Service is limited and does not run on Sundays

  • Lochmaben
    • Crown Hotel 8 Bruce Street Lochmaben DG11 1PD Telephone(01387) 811750

      The Crown is a small family run pub and hotel With accommodation, beer garden, food and regular entertainment

  • Lockerbie
    • Royal Bar 6 Station Road Lockerbie DG11 2HA Telephone(01576) 202374

      Cosy pub. Live music at weekend. Handy for the station.

  • Moffat
    • Balmoral Hotel High Street Moffat DG10 9DL Telephone(01683) 220288

      Town Centre traditional hotel with lounge bar operation. Food offered all day with designated seating in rear with log burning fire. Pleasant garden area accessed from High Street . Bus services connect Moffat with Dumfries, Lockerbie, Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is a connection to West Coast Main Line train services at Lockerbie. There will be changing beer will be available at times of high demand.

    • Black Bull Inn Church Gate Moffat DG10 9EG Telephone(01683) 221150

      The open-plan bar and eating area is light and airy, with a small 'snug' away from the restaurant. NOTE - The pub is closed over winter late November to March. The hotel dating from 1568 is the oldest building in Moffat still in use and possibly one of the oldest hotels in Scotland. It has connections with the history and literature of southern Scotland: being a centre for government troops during the time of the Covenanters; and a visiting place for Robert Burns when an Excise Officer. Bus services connect Moffat with Dumfries, Lockerbie, Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is a connection by bus to the West Coast Main Line train services at Lockerbie.

      Check with the pub re: meal availability.

    • Buccleuch Arms Hotel High Street Moffat DG10 9ET Telephone(01683) 220003

      This privately owned and family run hotel is one of the best meeting places in Moffat. Bistro bar/eating area downstairs, with a more formal restaurant upstairs. Bus services connect Moffat with Dumfries, Lockerbie, Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is a connection to West Coast Main Line train services at Lockerbie.

      Operates as B&B only during winter months, no bar.

      Please use the Submit Updates link at the top of this page if you have any other information, especially with regard to the availability of real ale or cider.

      Update June 2023: One real ale available. Meals have a South African influence due to the owners origins. A meeting place for motor bike enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

    • Famous Star Hotel 44 High Street Moffat DG10 9EF Telephone(01683) 220156

      The Famous Star Hotel is recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the narrowest detached hotel in the world. The building is 20 feet wide and 162 feet long but feels much bigger due to the clever use of internal space. It offers excellent service.

      The Star has at least one beer available all year round. There is a large public bar downstairs with entry at the rear, and a smaller lounge accessed from the front.

      Moffat is a good base for exploring the Southern Uplands and there are excellent walks nearby.

      The landlord has plans to offer real ale from spring 2024, depending upon demand. Please check before you travel to avoid disappointment.

  • Moniaive
    • Craigdarroch Arms Hotel High Street Moniaive DG3 4HN Telephone(01848) 200205

      The Craigdarroch Arms Hotel has been at the heart of Moniaive's community for over a century. It attracts many outdoor enthusiasts, including cyclists, anglers and shooters. The village hosts regular music festivals with a varied range of major artistes performing to audiences in the Coach House in the huge hotel garden. It holds an annual beer festival. The restaurant serves excellent, freshly prepared meals using local produce. Children & dogs are welcome.

  • New Abbey
    • Abbey Arms Hotel 1 The Square New Abbey DG2 8BX Telephone(01387) 850489

      A friendly hotel in the square of the picturesque village of New Abbey, about 5 miles from Dumfries. The nearby Sweetheart Abbey was founded in 1273 by Lady Devorgilla of Galloway, in memory of her late husband, John Balliol. Opening hours can vary - contact pub if in doubt

      As this pub is set in a rural location, the recommendation is to call before your visit to ensure that it is open and serving real ale.

  • New Galloway
    • CatStrand High Street New Galloway DG7 3RN Telephone(01644) 420374

      CatStrand is an arts centre and licenced cafe funded by the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust which is open 7 days a week during the day (except January and February when it is 5 days per week). Run by volunteers so check times before visiting on their frequently updated Facebook page. The bar is also open alongside the busy evening events programme and usually on Friday evenings until 10pm as an 'open bar'.

      Real Ale is served in bottles with a good selection of Five Kingdoms and usually also from Sulwath.

    • Ken Bridge Hotel New Galloway DG7 3PR Telephone07826 382552

      Eighteenth-century former coaching inn, now a family-run hotel with local connections reaching back several generations. Situated on the banks of the lovely River Ken with its good fishing and picturesque views, it provides an ideal base for exploring the Galloway Forest Park and some of the darkest skies in Europe. Wooden benches, original stone walls and a natural slate floor create a relaxed atmosphere in the bar. Winter opening times may vary. There is a limited daytime bus service to Castle Douglas or Dalry, Monday to Saturday. Twice a day there is a connecting service to Ayr via Dalmellington. There is no bus service on Sunday.

  • Sandyhills
    • Beagle Country Pub Barend Holiday Village Sandyhills DG5 4NU Telephone(01357) 733632

      A popular facility which is part of the well used Barend Holiday Village. On Wednesdays we do a pub quiz with proceeds to local charities and good causes. During winter we have a log burner and in warmer months we've done the courtyard up to be a pleasant outdoor space for drinking and eating. There is a large cover with heaters for cooler evenings.

  • Springfield
    • Queens Head Main Street Springfield DG16 5EH Telephone(01461) 337173

      A single-roomed village pub - this friendly, unpretentious local is slightly off the beaten track, although it is close to Gretna, wedding capital of the country. In the 18th and early 19th centuries marriages were conducted in the pub and wedding parties still celebrate here. Note that food is not served and the pub does not open on weekdays until 5 pm. There is a bus stop outside the pub with local service 382 going north to Ecclefechan and Lockerbie. The southbound service terminates 5 minutes away in Gretna where there are bus connections to Annan or Carlisle. Gretna Green railway station, with services to Carlisle, Annan and Dumfries, is a 15 minute walk from the pub.

  • Thornhill
    • Buccleuch & Queensberry Hotel 112 Drumlanrig Street Thornhill DG3 5LU Telephone(01848) 323101

      Originally built by the Duke of Buccleuch in 1855, the hotel is now family-run. The building has been renovated to create a stylish country hotel in this scenic part of the Nith Valley. Thornhill is an ideal base for those interested in exploring the countryside or engaging in activities such as fishing.

      Lovely relaxing friendly bar Opening times stated above are for the lounge bar, with the public bar opening at 5pm on weekdays and 12pm at weekends.

    • Farmers Arms 50 Drumlanrig Street Thornhill DG3 5LJ Telephone(01848) 330190

      Family run pub in the heart of Thornhill. Lounge recently refurbished to high standard. Friendly owners and locals. Lots of regular events.

    • Thornhill Inn 103-106 Drumlanrig Street Thornhill DG3 5LU Telephone(01848) 330326

      A former coaching inn, it is a busy, friendly establishment which is frequented by locals and visitors alike - much as a result of its reputation for good home-cooked food. The hotel is popular with the many visitors who visit Nithsdale for salmon angling, shooting and other outdoor sports.

  • Torthorwald
    • Manor Country House Hotel Torthorwald DG1 3PT Telephone(01387) 750555

      Set in beautiful private grounds, only four miles from Dumfries and 8 miles from Lockerbie, this charming 200-year-old country house hotel serves good food. Torthorwald owes its name to the Vikings who raided the Solway coastline. Please note the venue is closed Mon-Tues during Jan - April Real ale not always available