The town of Annan, a former harbour, lies on the banks of the River Annan, in East Dumfries and Galloway, and is steeped in history, with the area once the site of Roman camps and the workplace of the writer Thomas Carlyle. Each year, the town celebrates the Riding of the Marches, in honour of the Royal Charter bestowed by King James V, which involves parades, massed pipe bands and competitions. The area around Annan has many small towns, picture postcard villages and hamlets, plus beautiful unspoilt coastline, with sandy beaches and hidden coves. Visit nearby Caerlaverock Castle, one of Scotland’s finest ruined castles or Annandale Distillery. Take a day trip and marvel at the majestic architecture of the grand abbeys of Melrose and Jedburgh or visit the northern Lake District and the historic Hadrian’s Wall. Annan is an ideal base for exploring this lovely area.
