Blackaddie House Hotel - 4 Star Hotel and Restaurant

Local Attractions

Sanquhar Post Office

Sanquhar Post Office is the oldest working example in the world, operating continuously since 1712. Its nearest rivals are Stockholm in Sweden (1720) and Santiago in Chile (1772).

The building dates from around 1700 and was originally a change house, where coaches halted and fresh horses were available. When, in 1712, the Nithsdale cross-post was established, it was logical that this would be where the mail-runners would rest and exchange bags before continuing north to Cumnock or returning to Dumfries.

The post office features in the earliest known photograph of Sanquhar, taken in 1858.

Sanquhar Tolbooth

Sanquhar Tolbooth, at the head of the High Street, will help any visitor to get a feel for the history and 'traditions' of Upper Nithsdale. Built in the 18th century, to the centre of the burgh's government, as well as housing a schoolroom and a prison.

Today the Tolbooth is a museum with an impressive collection of local artefacts and displays illustrating the rich heritage of Upper Nithsdale.

Sanquhar Castle

Sanquhar Castle dates from around the 11th century and played a significant part in Scotland's history, it was the scene of bloody conflict during the Wars of Independence. One of its towers is named after William Wallace who once relieved the castle.

In the 17th century, Sanquhar Castle became the family seat of Sir William Douglas, Earl of Queensberry, until Drumlanrig Castle was built. Stones from the castle were then removed and used in the construction of Sanquhar Tolbooth. Today, the castle is a romantic ruin.

The Museum of Scottish Lead Mining

The Museum of Scottish Lead Mining, based in Wanlockhead, is open from Easter to September and offers a fascinating insight into the hard lives endured by the villagers of the past.

Visitors can go underground on a guided tour of Lochnell mine. A beam engine in the village, used to extract water from the mine workings is the last surviving example of its kind in Britain. The museum has a cafe and shop.

Drumlanrig Castle

Drumlanrig Castle, built between 1670 and 1690, the seat of the Duke of Buccleuch & Queensberry, is a unique example of late 17th century Renaissance architecture.

The 'pink palace' is open to the public for most of the summer and its treasures include works by Rembrandt and Holbein.

Other attractions include nature trails, a craft centre and a children's adventure playground.

www.drumlanrig.com .

Ellisland Farm

When Robert Burns was 29 and at the peak of his powers as a poet, he took over the farm at Ellisland. He lived here with Jean Armour between 1788 and 1791.

The farmhouse provides a fascinating insight into the farmer-poet's life and offers the opportunity to view a range of his possessions.

Thornhill

Thornhill In recent years, the old market village of Thornhill has reinvented itself as a specialist shopping centre. The attractive, broad main street, flanked by lime trees and cobbles, plays host to an interesting array of boutiques, clothing shops, health food stores, antique and book dealers and cafes.