The Royal Burgh of Annan was once a principal route for the invading armies crisscrossing the country. As the largest town in the district, Annan is home to about 10,000 people. It was originally a market town, using the waterpower to run the grain and cotton mills. Shipbuilding became as important industry during the 19th century as many of the ships were built for companies in Canada and the United States. Today, there is little evidence of any of these industries, but the town is a popular tourist destination both for its spectacular beauty and the wealth of things to see and do.
Bridge House, on High Street, is an outstanding example of a sandstone building and is thought to be one of the finest Georgian townhouses in all of Scotland. Thomas Carlyle was both a student and a teacher at this school. High Street also contains other historic buildings, such as the Victorian Town Hall with the rope work carved above the main entrance and the War Memorial. The mounds are all that remain of the castle of Robert the Bruce, but this is enough for most tourists to see. The Annan Museum has a permanent exhibit detailing the rich history of the town and offers a guided tour that takes you from prehistoric times to the present. Cycling routes through southwestern Scotland pass through Annan. On the off-road sections there are bridges and these trails also link with the National Byway, which is a network of rural lanes extending 114 miles throughout the district. The River Annan is a scenic fishing area with salmon in the spring and grilse in the summer. There are also sea trout and herring in abundance. You may just be able to catch one of the elusive 20-30 grey backs in the fall.
The sports facilities in Annan offer a variety of activities. Swimming at the Annan Pool, badminton and aerobics at the Newington Sport and Leisure Centre, tennis, racquetball and golf at the Seaforth Park – these are just some of the delights you will find in this town. At the 1400-acre CaerLaverock Wetlands Centre, there is year round viewing of all manner of birds – a veritable birdwatcher’s paradise. For the avid golfer, there are two courses to choose from. Although the Powfoot Golf Club is a private club, visitors are always welcome at this championship course and the Golf at Hoddam Castle along the banks of River Annan will challenge the best of golfing skills. Hotels, bed and breakfast establishments as well as self-catering cottages will provide you with comfortable accommodations. The variety of cuisine will make you want to sample everything on the menus and if you are in a bit of a hurry, tale away is also available at many locations. Your vacation in Annan will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
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