Free (and Fun!) Things to Do with the Kids in Dumfries & Galloway this Summer
The summer holidays are here — and keeping the kids busy doesn’t have to cost a penny!
Here are some brilliant free family-friendly activities happening across Dumfries and Galloway this summer:
Passport stamp hunting at Dumfries Museums
Grab a museum passport and go stamp hunting!
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Each museum has a special stamp to collect.
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Once the passport is full, come back the next week to claim a special badge as a reward.
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Dress-up corners, hands-on activities and fascinating local history to explore along the way.
👉 No passport yet? Pick one up at the front desk of any local museum.
Free kids’ craft sessions at Lockerbie Library
Get creative at Lockerbie Library this summer! Sessions are 18 & 25 July and 1, 8 & 15 August 2025. To avoid missing out, please book in advance by emailing: [email protected]


Pick up craft kits to take home
Lochmaben Library: Free craft kits available during opening hours — perfect for an at-home activity with parents.
Castle Douglas Library: Collect a different craft kit every week of the holidays — something new to try each time you visit!
Brydekirk Village Hall Summer Fun Day
Enjoy a whole day of fun — with free entry.
📅 Sunday 20th July at Brydekirk Playing Field
Bouncy castles, craft stalls, amusement rides, candy floss, slip and slide, glitter tattoos, tombola, and more!
Hairy Haggis Trail at The Famous Blacksmiths Shop
Kids can pick up a FREE trail map from any on-site shop and search for the hidden Hairy Haggis scattered around this historic attraction — each with its own tartan and story, written by talented local pupils.
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Runs until 5 September 2025
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Once all the Hairy Haggis are found, unscramble the final puzzle to enter a draw to win a Kids’ Hamper full of goodies.
No booking needed — just collect your trail map in store and start the adventure!
Family Fun Day at The Steamboat Inn
Wrap up the summer fun with a lively afternoon at The Steamboat Inn!
📅 Wednesday 23rd July 2025, 2–4pm
Enjoy a bouncy castle, face-painting, tasty BBQ, and live entertainment from – FREE ENTRY.
