Annandale and Eskdale

is the area to the east of Dumfries and Galloway and is quite literally 'the first in Scotland'. When travelling into Scotland on the M74, the first town you reach is Gretna and nearby Gretna Green.
   
Even if you are not looking to exchange vows, discover the history of Gretna Green and indulge in some fantastic shopping and dining at the Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop.

The town of Annan has a museum and Historic Resources Centre, once sheltered Bonnie Prince Charlie in an inn in its High Street and a cairn on its harbour jetty commemorates Robert Burns who worked here as an exciseman.

The Kagye Samye Ling Monastery and Tibetan Centre, at Eskdalemuir, near Langholm, was the first Tibetan Buddhist complex in the UK and warmly welcomes visitors to their temple and gardens.

Visit the house Thomas Carlyle was born, at Ecclefechan, while Langholm was the birthplace of Hugh McDiarmid and Thomas Telford.

The spa town of Moffat is Scotland's first 'walkers are welcome' town with information, advice and access for walkers. Lovely choice of shops and restaurants.