Welcome to The Retreat, a delightful 1-bedroom cottage perfect for couples seeking a peaceful getaway in the vibrant harbour town of Kirkcudbright.

🎨 A Place with Artistic History
Once home to local artist John Budgetts, this character-filled cottage is tucked away on a quiet, pedestrian-only close just off the historic High Street. The location is private, peaceful, and only a short walk from everything Kirkcudbright has to offer.

🛏️ Sleeping & Living
• King-size bed for a restful night’s sleep
• Travel cot available on request (cot bedding not provided per Airbnb policy)
• Comfortable lounge space to relax after exploring

🍳 Fully Equipped Kitchen
• Fan oven with induction hob
• Fridge & freezer
• Microwave, kettle, toaster
• Full set of crockery, utensils, and cooking equipment

🌼 Outdoor Space
• Small, outdoor area with table and chairs, perfect for morning coffee or evening drinks

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Everything
Located in the heart of Kirkcudbright, you’re just minutes from:
• Independent cafés, restaurants, and pubs
• Art galleries and the town’s creative quarter
• The charming working harbour and riverside walks
• Annual events like the Kirkcudbright Art & Crafts Trail and Summer Festivities

🌄 Kirkcudbright, known as the “Artists’ Town”, is a gem on the Dumfries and Galloway coast. It’s ideal for exploring beaches, Galloway Forest Park, and nearby historic attractions like MacLellan’s Castle and Broughton House.

Guests have exclusive access to the entire cottage during their stay.

Access is via a pedestrian-only close just off the High Street. While you can’t drive directly to the door, unrestricted on-street parking is available just a short walk away. You’ll receive full check-in instructions before arrival.

Liam works locally and has family nearby, so we’re always close at hand if needed. We’re happy to help via message or phone throughout your stay and are available for tips, recommendations, or emergencies. We respect your privacy but are always here if needed 😊

Welcome to Kirkcudbright - pronounced kir-COO-bree - a beautiful harbour town on the south-west coast of Scotland, known affectionately as the “Artists’ Town.” With its pastel-painted houses, cobbled closes, working harbour, and thriving creative scene, it’s the perfect base for a relaxing break, romantic getaway, or arts-inspired adventure.


📍 Top Local Landmarks & Attractions:
• Kirkcudbright Galleries – Stunning gallery space featuring local and national artists
• MacLellan’s Castle – 16th-century ruin in the heart of the town
• Harbour & Marina – Watch fishing boats come and go or enjoy a scenic riverside walk
• Broughton House & Garden (NTS) – Home of artist E.A. Hornel, filled with art, books, and a beautiful Japanese-style garden
• Kirkcudbright Art & Crafts Trail (August) – Annual event celebrating the town’s creative spirit
• Dark Sky Park & Galloway Forest (30 mins) – Star-gazing paradise and nature trails galore
• Dhoon Bay & Carrick Shore – Local beaches perfect for coastal walks and rockpooling

🛍️ Local Amenities:
• Independent shops, galleries, bakeries, and artisan stores
• Excellent cafés and eateries including:
• The Selkirk Arms – Historic inn with a top-rated restaurant
• Skippers Scran Van – Fresh local fish and chips
• Co-op supermarket, Post Office, pharmacy, bank, gift shops
• Weekly Farmers’ Market and seasonal craft events

🚗 Nearby Places to Explore:
• Dumfries (40 mins) – Historic market town and birthplace of Robert Burns
• Castle Douglas (20 mins) – Foodie town with independent shops and cafes
• Gatehouse of Fleet (20 mins) – Quaint town near Cally Gardens and Cardoness Castle
• Wigtown (45 mins) – Scotland’s National Book Town
• Threave Castle & Gardens – Beautiful National Trust for Scotland site near Castle Douglas
• Isle of Whithorn & St. Ninian’s Cave (1 hr) – Coastal gems full of history

🚆 Travel & Transport:
• By Car – Kirkcudbright is best accessed by car; plenty of free parking in town
• Train Station: Nearest station is Dumfries (40 mins), with connections to Glasgow, Carlisle & Newcastle
• Bus Services: Regular buses to Dumfries, Castle Douglas, and Gatehouse
• No Uber – Local taxis are available, but pre-booking is recommended for evenings or weddings

🚗 Parking:
Free, unrestricted on-street parking is available at the top of the pedestrian close. Please note the cottage is accessed on foot only.

🧺 Linen & Towels:
All bed linen and towels are provided. Travel cot bedding is not included due to Airbnb safety regulations.

🐾 Pets:
Sorry, no pets allowed unless agreed in advance. Please message us to discuss before booking.

🚭 Smoking:
Smoking is allowed outside only in the garden area. Please do not smoke indoors.

🎉 Events:
No parties or events are permitted. We kindly ask that guests treat our home and neighbours with respect.