The Dougie Arms: Dumfries’ Welcoming Local Pub with Character
A cosy, welcoming pub in Dumfries known for its diverse ales, friendly atmosphere, and inclusive community spirit.
The Dougie Arms is a charming, inexpensive pub located in the heart of Dumfries at 75 Friars Vennel. Known for its friendly atmosphere, diverse drink selection, and slightly alternative vibe, it offers a cosy setting with a lively social scene. This small bar is popular for its welcoming spirit, including a strong LGBT-friendly reputation, and features a snug interior perfect for relaxing or enjoying music and conversation.
A brief summary to The Dougie Arms
- 75 Friars Vennel, Dumfries, DG1 2RQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 3 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 3 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 3 pm-12 am
- Friday 1 pm-1 am
- Saturday 1 pm-1 am
- Sunday 1 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter experience and more attentive service.
- Try the changing selection of ales from smaller breweries to enjoy unique local flavors.
- Bring your dog along; the pub is known for being pet-friendly.
- Be prepared for lively music, especially on weekend evenings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
The Dougie Arms location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Dougie Arms
A Hub of Community and Warmth in Dumfries
Nestled in the historic town centre of Dumfries, The Dougie Arms is a beloved local pub that exudes warmth and friendliness. This modest-sized venue offers an inviting atmosphere where locals and visitors mingle comfortably. Its location on Friars Vennel places it within easy reach of the town’s cultural and historical highlights, making it a perfect pit stop for those exploring the area. The pub’s interior features a cosy snug and a welcoming fire during colder months, creating a homely environment that encourages lingering and social connection.A Diverse and Carefully Curated Drink Selection
Though The Dougie Arms does not serve food, it shines with its well-considered drink offerings. The pub is known for its rotating selection of ales, often sourced from smaller, lesser-known breweries, catering especially to real ale enthusiasts. This commitment to quality and variety is reflected in the pub’s reputation among beer lovers, with a focus on delivering unique and flavorful options. The management actively engages with patrons through social media to update them on beer choices, adding a modern touch to this traditional setting.A Vibrant and Inclusive Social Scene
The Dougie Arms stands out as one of Dumfries’ most LGBT-friendly venues, fostering an environment of acceptance and respect. The pub’s lively yet relaxed vibe is enhanced by music that ranges from background tunes to livelier sets, although some visitors note the volume can be high at times. The staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to the pub’s reputation as a safe and enjoyable space for all. Dogs are welcome, adding to the casual and homely feel.Atmosphere and Character
With its slightly alternative feel, The Dougie Arms appeals to a broad audience seeking a local haunt with personality. The decor is unpretentious, focusing on comfort and conviviality rather than flashy design. The pub’s ambiance is a blend of traditional charm and contemporary inclusiveness, making it a unique spot in Dumfries’ nightlife and social landscape. Regular events and a strong community presence keep the pub buzzing, especially on weekends.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
Open from early afternoon through late evening, The Dougie Arms accommodates a range of schedules, with extended hours on weekends. Its pricing is considered inexpensive, making it accessible for casual visits or longer social evenings. The pub’s central location also means it benefits from good mobile reception and nearby amenities, including public transport options and other eateries. Seating is comfortable, though the venue’s small size means it can become busy, especially during peak times.Legacy and Local Significance
The Dougie Arms holds a special place in Dumfries’ pub scene, recognized for its dedication to quality ales and community spirit. It has earned accolades such as Sub-Branch Pub of the Year and maintains a loyal customer base. Its blend of tradition and openness reflects the evolving social fabric of Dumfries, making it not just a pub but a cultural landmark where stories and friendships are forged.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queensberry Monument
0.2 km
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust
0.3 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Dumfries
0.6 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Tours
2.1 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Kingdom Scotland
4.0 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Fourmerkland Tower
7.7 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Comyn's Tower
8.3 km
Explore Comyn's Tower near Dumfries, a medieval stronghold entwined with Scotland’s dramatic history and the legacy of the Comyn clan.
Isle Tower
9.2 km
Explore Isle Tower, a serene 17th-century Scottish tower house ruin guarding historic routes near Dumfries in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway.
Waterloo Monument
10.7 km
A 150-foot stone tower on Peniel Heugh, built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo and offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and Solway Firth.
Wardlaw Hillfort
10.9 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Little Dalton Kirk
11.9 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Mossband Residential Park
13.7 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens
25.9 km
Explore the stunning Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens, a historical gem in Scotland boasting art, beautiful gardens, and rich heritage.
Orchardton Tower
26.0 km
Discover Scotland’s only free-standing circular tower house, a rare medieval fortress steeped in history and legend near Castle Douglas.
Threave Garden
26.7 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Threave Garden, a botanical paradise in Castle Douglas, Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
VisitScotland Dumfries iCentre
0.2 km
Friendly and knowledgeable visitor centre offering expert local advice and resources in the heart of Dumfries.
Devorgilla Bridge
0.3 km
Explore the captivating Devorgilla Bridge, an architectural masterpiece and historical landmark nestled in the heart of Dumfries, Scotland.
Dumfries Fountain
0.3 km
Discover the Dumfries Fountain, a stunning historical landmark in Dumfries, showcasing the town's rich culture and architectural beauty.
Old Bridge House
0.3 km
Explore Dumfries’ oldest house ingeniously built into a historic bridge, revealing centuries of local life and heritage by the River Nith.
Robert Burns Centre
0.3 km
Discover the life and legacy of Robert Burns in Dumfries’ historic watermill, featuring immersive exhibits and a vibrant independent film theatre.
Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society
0.4 km
Discover your roots and explore South West Scotland’s rich heritage at the Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society Research Centre.
Dumfries Museum
0.5 km
Explore Dumfries’ rich heritage and the world’s oldest working camera obscura in this captivating museum of history and science.
Robert Burns House
0.5 km
Explore the intimate final home of Robert Burns in Dumfries, where Scotland’s national poet lived, wrote, and left a lasting legacy.
St Michael’s and South Parish Church
0.6 km
Discover Dumfries’ oldest church, a historic landmark rich with medieval pillars, stunning stained glass, and the Burns’ Mausoleum.
Dock Park
0.7 km
Historic riverside park in Dumfries with family-friendly play, mini-golf, bowling, and scenic picnic spots beside the River Nith.
Burns Mausoleum
0.7 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
HMP Dumfries
0.8 km
Historic 19th-century prison in Dumfries serving local courts and national sex offender population with a unique castellated architecture.
Cuckoo Bridge Retail Park
1.0 km
Dumfries’ main retail park with Tesco Extra, B&M, Dunelm, KFC, Costa and more – a practical, car‑friendly hub for everyday shopping and essentials.
Lockerbie Road off-road driving course
1.4 km
Experience the thrill of off-road driving on varied terrain with expert guidance at Dumfries’ premier off-road course.
Castledykes Park
1.6 km
Discover Dumfries’ historic green heart where medieval heritage meets tranquil gardens and vibrant wildlife habitats.
Essential places to dine
The New Oriental Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Chinese dining in the heart of Dumfries, known for fresh ingredients and friendly service in a cozy setting.
Home Restaurant
0.1 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Dumfries serving creative, locally sourced Mediterranean-inspired dishes with heartfelt hospitality.
N'Dulge
0.1 km
Discover N'Dulge: A lively bar & grill in Dumfries serving delicious meals and refreshing drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
The Back Street
0.2 km
A vibrant hub for modern British cuisine and local drinks in the heart of Dumfries town centre, blending passion with a welcoming atmosphere.
Cavens Arms
0.2 km
A welcoming Dumfries pub offering hearty traditional fare, a dedicated vegan menu, and a friendly atmosphere in the town centre.
Ivanos Italian Food
0.2 km
Casual Italian takeaway and pizza delivery in Dumfries, serving authentic flavors with a friendly local touch.
The Corner Eatery and Bar Store
0.2 km
A vibrant eatery in Dumfries serving fresh, homemade British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and a charming beer garden.
La Dolce Vita
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Dumfries at La Dolce Vita, a charming and inclusive dining destination.
Truffles Bistro
0.2 km
Sophisticated yet cozy, Truffles Bistro in Dumfries serves exquisite local and international dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
The Bank Bar and Tapas
0.2 km
A vibrant, fully gluten-free tapas bar in Dumfries blending international flavors with a lively social atmosphere and inclusive dining.
Granary
0.3 km
A vibrant Dumfries pub blending cozy dining, lively weekend entertainment, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
Palmerston Cafe
0.4 km
A family-run Dumfries classic serving award-winning fish & chips and authentic Italian ice cream since 1969.
The Usual Place
0.4 km
A charming, community-focused café in a converted church offering fresh, ethical meals and warm hospitality in Dumfries.
The Station Cafe Dumfries
0.7 km
A friendly, affordable cafe nestled in Dumfries Railway Station, perfect for a comforting breakfast or coffee break on your travels.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Treasure Trove Dumfries
0.0 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Dumfries at The Treasure Trove.
Circle Vintage
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Circle Vintage in Dumfries, your destination for unique and timeless fashion finds that celebrate the beauty of the past.
20 Castle Street
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and timeless antiques with expert interior design at 20 Castle Street, nestled in the historic heart of Dumfries.
ALTERNATIVE CENTRE(DUMFRIES)
0.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and memorable gifts at Dumfries’ welcoming Alternative Centre on Queensberry Street.
Vintage 109
0.2 km
Discover Vintage 109, a cozy Dumfries boutique brimming with unique, well-priced vintage and handcrafted homewares that add charm to any space.
La Maison Home & Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
Flourish
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
Unique Ukes in Dumfries
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted ukuleles and a vibrant music community at Unique Ukes, Dumfries’ premier ukulele shop on Gordon Street.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
0.2 km
Your go-to store in Dumfries for quality outdoor clothing and gear at moderate prices, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Think Something Different
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
The Fragrance Shop
0.3 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Bonmarché
0.3 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
Plum Boutique
0.5 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
The Range, Dumfries
0.7 km
A versatile home and garden store in Dumfries offering extensive products for every lifestyle and living space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dougie Arms
0.0 km
A cosy, welcoming pub in Dumfries known for its diverse ales, friendly atmosphere, and inclusive community spirit.
The Venue Dumfries
0.1 km
A vibrant hub for live music, nightlife, and social gatherings in the heart of Dumfries.
Hole I' The Wa' Inn
0.1 km
A historic and lively Dumfries pub offering authentic Scottish charm, good-value drinks, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Coach & Horses Inn
0.2 km
Historic 1801 pub in Dumfries offering authentic Scottish charm, quality cask ales, and lively live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Imperial
0.2 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
The Stag Bar
0.2 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
Chancers Night Club
0.3 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Barrel
0.3 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Queensberry
0.3 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
Dickies Bar
0.3 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
Salutation Inn
0.3 km
A friendly, historic pub in Dumfries Market Square known for excellent pints and a welcoming atmosphere.
Devorgilla Lounge Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly lounge bar in Dumfries offering friendly service, relaxed vibes, and affordable drinks in the heart of Market Square.
The Lantern
0.5 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
Greens Sports Bar
0.7 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
Troqueer Arms
0.8 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering great drinks, live music, and authentic Scottish charm at an affordable price.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
0.6 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Black Box Music Institute
47.1 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
47.2 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
47.6 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
47.8 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
The Galloway Bar
57.5 km
Discover the charm of Wigtown at The Galloway Bar, where locals gather for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Square One
65.2 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
65.6 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
65.9 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Bridge Inn
69.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty and warm hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' favorite pub overlooking the River Tweed.
The Neidpath Inn
70.0 km
Discover The Neidpath Inn, a vibrant bar and bed & breakfast in Peebles, offering delicious cuisine, live music, and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
The County
70.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub and restaurant in Peebles offering hearty meals, great drinks, and warm Scottish hospitality in a central setting.
Union Club
70.1 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Central Bar
70.2 km
Experience the heart of Peebles at The Central Bar, where local charm and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
70.2 km
Historic inn and cozy hotel in Peebles town centre, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a lively pub atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
