Dumfries and Galloway’s Langholm is on the River Esk. Langholm’s history spans from Mesolithic Man 9000 years ago to the Border Reivers in the 16th century. The town grew around the textile industry, becoming known for its woollens and earning the nickname ‘Muckle Toon’ Hugh MacDiarmid, the poet, was born in Langholm, and Thomas Telford was born just outside the town. Neil Armstrong visited the Armstrong clan museum when he was made a freeman of the burgh in 1972. The town hosts music, food, and art festivals and the annual Common Riding. Lockerbie has bars, shops, and a jazz festival. Kagyu Samye Ling, the first Tibetan Buddhist Center in the West, is a short drive from Langholm. Day visitors can explore the temple or relax in the peace gardens and grounds year-round.
