ABOUT KIRKCUDBRIGHT
The Artists' Town.
Kirkcudbright is situated at the mouth of the River Dee in the Dumfries and Galloway Region of Scotland. It has a long historic background having been granted Royal Burgh status in 1455. In the centre, near to the harbour, is the imposing McLellan’s Castle, which sits at the junction of the main thoroughfares and is surrounded by old properties, many of which are painted in stunning colours, giving the town a bright and cheerful aspect. There are many places of interest in the near vicinity and also within its boundaries.
Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival Venues Map
(click on map for expanded view)
The title ‘Artists' Town’ was given to Kirkcudbright because of its long connection with many well-known artists and craftsmen who lived and worked here. Probably the most famous of these was E.A. Hornel, one of ‘The Glasgow Boys,’ whose residence in the old High Street, is now run by The National Trust for Scotland and is open to the public.
For art lovers, the new Kirkcudbright Galleries opened in 2018, a major redevelopment of the old Town Hall - also a former Jazz Festival venue! This superb facility, listed as a gallery of national significance, houses both local and special collections and is well worth a visit, including the café which is run by another long term Jazz Festival venue, the Selkirk Arms Hotel.
There is a boating marina nearby, an excellent museum, ancient Tolbooth with visitors centre and many sporting and leisure activities in the area, also numerous small shops, café/bistros and art galleries. A full range of accommodation is available, including hotels, guesthouses, self-catering properties and caravans/chalets, in the town and nearby.
The population numbers around 3,500 and the community is always prepared to welcome visitors at any time.
Support is given to many events throughout the year, including, Summer Festivities which take place during July and August culminating in the very popular Tattoo. There are also regular major Art Exhibitions held within the town. Over the past 20 years there have been annual Jazz Festivals, which have been very successful in attracting many first class musicians, as well as large numbers of Jazz enthusiasts.
