Samphire Gallery

Castle Douglas isn't exactly overrun with contemporary art spaces, so stumbling across Samphire Gallery is a proper surprise. It's a working studio and exhibition space that takes its cues from the Scottish landscape - think modern pieces that actually respond to where you are, rather than feeling parachuted in from somewhere else.

The gallery focuses on contemporary work, with rotating exhibitions that tend to feature local and regional artists. You'll spend anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour here depending on how much the work grabs you. It's intimate enough that you can have a chat with artists if they're around, which beats staring at pieces behind velvet ropes in Edinburgh's big institutions.

Families with teenagers who aren't allergic to art will get something out of it. Younger kids might find twenty minutes is their limit unless there's something particularly visual on. Serious collectors and anyone interested in what Scotland's contemporary scene is actually doing - rather than what galleries in bigger cities tell you it's doing - should absolutely visit.

Situated within striking distance of Galloway Glamping and Mollance Farm Caravan Park, it works perfectly as a mid-morning or afternoon stop during a park-based holiday in Dumfries & Galloway. Pair it with a wander around Castle Douglas town centre itself. You'll want to check opening hours and admission details before heading over - independent galleries can be variable with their schedules - but it's worth the detour if contemporary Scottish work interests you at all.