Langholm is a burgh on the River Esk in Dumfries and Galloway. From Mesolithic Man 9000 years ago, through Roman occupation to the notorious Border Reivers around the 16th century, Langholm has much history to share. The town developed around the textile industry, achieving a worldwide reputation for its woollens, expanding its population and earning the nickname of the ‘Muckle Toon’, or the Large Town. Langholm is also famous as the birthplace of Hugh MacDiarmid, the poet and Thomas Telford who was born just outside the town and after whom a road in the town is named. An unused Episcopalian church was converted into the Armstrong clan museum and was visited by astronaut Neil Armstrong in 1972 when he was made a freeman of the burgh. The town also hosts festivals for music, food and arts and the annual Common Riding draws many visitors. Within easy reach is Lockerbie, home to a good selection of bars and shopping facilities, as well as a jazz festival. A short drive from Langholm in the River Esk Valley is the Kagyu Samye Ling, the first Tibetan Buddhist Centre established in the West. As well as offering residential retreats, day visitors are welcome all year round to explore the temple or relax in the peace gardens and grounds.
