Queensberry Monument in Dumfries: A Tribute to a Noble Legacy
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
The Queensberry Monument, located in Queensberry Square, Dumfries, is an iconic historical landmark dedicated to Charles Douglas, the 3rd Duke of Queensberry. Erected in 1780, this striking stone column commemorates the Duke's influence and status in the region. It stands as a symbol of Dumfries' rich heritage, connecting visitors to the area's noble past and architectural traditions.
A brief summary to Queensberry Monument
- Queensberry Square, 2-6 Queensberry Square, Dumfries, DG1 1BL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the monument’s architectural details and the ambiance of Queensberry Square.
- Combine your visit with nearby historic sites in Dumfries to gain a broader understanding of the region’s heritage.
- Bring a camera for capturing the monument’s classical design against the backdrop of the Georgian townscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Dumfries town center with surrounding areas, with stops within a 10-minute walk of Queensberry Square. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing approximately £2–£5 depending on distance.
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Train
Dumfries railway station is about 1.5 km from Queensberry Square, accessible by taxi or a 20-minute walk on mostly flat terrain. Train services link Dumfries with Glasgow and Carlisle, with fares starting around £10.
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Car
Driving to Dumfries offers flexible access; public parking is available near the town center but can be limited during peak hours. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 per hour.
Queensberry Monument location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Queensberry Monument
Historical Significance of the Queensberry Monument
The Queensberry Monument was constructed in 1780 as a memorial to Charles Douglas, the 3rd Duke of Queensberry, a prominent nobleman in Dumfries and the surrounding region. The monument reflects the esteem in which the Duke was held by the local community, symbolizing his influence and contributions to the county. Its erection by the people of Dumfries underscores the importance of the aristocracy in shaping the town’s history during the 18th century.Architectural Features and Design
This monument is a tall, elegant stone column situated prominently in Queensberry Square, Dumfries. Its classical design is typical of 18th-century commemorative architecture, embodying the aesthetic values of the period. The column’s clean lines and dignified proportions convey a sense of solemnity and respect, making it a notable landmark within the urban fabric of Dumfries. The monument’s simplicity allows it to stand out as a focal point in the square without overwhelming the surrounding environment.Queensberry Square and Its Urban Context
Queensberry Square itself is a historic public space in Dumfries, providing a fitting setting for the monument. The square is part of the town’s Georgian-era layout, which blends functional urban planning with elegant public spaces. The monument enhances the square’s character, offering visitors a tangible connection to the town’s noble heritage while complementing the surrounding architecture and streetscape.The Duke of Queensberry’s Legacy in Dumfries
Charles Douglas, the 3rd Duke of Queensberry, was a significant figure in Dumfries and Scottish history. His legacy extends beyond this monument, influencing local governance, culture, and society. The monument serves as a reminder of the aristocratic lineage that shaped Dumfries’ development during a period of political and social change. It also reflects the broader historical narrative of the region, which includes moments of conflict, resilience, and cultural flourishing.Visitor Experience and Cultural Importance
Today, the Queensberry Monument is a must-see for visitors interested in Dumfries’ history and heritage. Its central location makes it easily accessible, and it offers a quiet spot for reflection amid the bustle of the town center. The monument invites contemplation of the past and appreciation for the architectural and cultural fabric of Dumfries. It also acts as a gateway to exploring other nearby historic sites that together tell the story of this storied Scottish region.Preservation and Continuing Relevance
Maintained as a protected historic landmark, the Queensberry Monument continues to be a symbol of Dumfries’ rich past. Efforts to preserve the monument ensure that future generations can engage with the town’s noble heritage. Its presence in Queensberry Square enriches the cultural landscape, linking the present-day community with its historical roots and fostering a sense of identity and continuity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queensberry Monument
0.0 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
0.2 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Dumfries
0.5 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Tours
2.3 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Kingdom Scotland
3.9 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Fourmerkland Tower
7.8 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Comyn's Tower
8.4 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
9.1 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
10.8 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Little Dalton Kirk
11.7 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Mossband Residential Park
13.8 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens
26.0 km
Explore the stunning Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens, a historical gem in Scotland boasting art, beautiful gardens, and rich heritage.
Orchardton Tower
26.1 km
Discover Scotland’s only free-standing circular tower house, a rare medieval fortress steeped in history and legend near Castle Douglas.
Threave Garden
26.8 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
Dumfries Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the Dumfries Fountain, a stunning historical landmark in Dumfries, showcasing the town's rich culture and architectural beauty.
VisitScotland Dumfries iCentre
0.2 km
Friendly and knowledgeable visitor centre offering expert local advice and resources in the heart of Dumfries.
Robert Burns Centre
0.4 km
Discover the life and legacy of Robert Burns in Dumfries’ historic watermill, featuring immersive exhibits and a vibrant independent film theatre.
Robert Burns House
0.4 km
Explore the intimate final home of Robert Burns in Dumfries, where Scotland’s national poet lived, wrote, and left a lasting legacy.
Devorgilla Bridge
0.4 km
Explore the captivating Devorgilla Bridge, an architectural masterpiece and historical landmark nestled in the heart of Dumfries, Scotland.
Old Bridge House
0.4 km
Explore Dumfries’ oldest house ingeniously built into a historic bridge, revealing centuries of local life and heritage by the River Nith.
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.
Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society
0.5 km
Discover your roots and explore South West Scotland’s rich heritage at the Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society Research Centre.
St Michael’s and South Parish Church
0.5 km
Discover Dumfries’ oldest church, a historic landmark rich with medieval pillars, stunning stained glass, and the Burns’ Mausoleum.
Burns Mausoleum
0.6 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
Dock Park
0.6 km
Historic riverside park in Dumfries with family-friendly play, mini-golf, bowling, and scenic picnic spots beside the River Nith.
HMP Dumfries
0.9 km
Historic 19th-century prison in Dumfries serving local courts and national sex offender population with a unique castellated architecture.
Cuckoo Bridge Retail Park
1.2 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
1.3 km
Experience the thrill of off-road driving on varied terrain with expert guidance at Dumfries’ premier off-road course.
Castledykes Park
1.5 km
Discover Dumfries’ historic green heart where medieval heritage meets tranquil gardens and vibrant wildlife habitats.
Essential places to dine
Granary
0.1 km
A vibrant Dumfries pub blending cozy dining, lively weekend entertainment, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Back Street
0.1 km
A vibrant hub for modern British cuisine and local drinks in the heart of Dumfries town centre, blending passion with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Corner Eatery and Bar Store
0.1 km
A vibrant eatery in Dumfries serving fresh, homemade British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and a charming beer garden.
N'Dulge
0.1 km
Discover N'Dulge: A lively bar & grill in Dumfries serving delicious meals and refreshing drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
La Dolce Vita
0.1 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 New Oriental Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Chinese dining in the heart of Dumfries, known for fresh ingredients and friendly service in a cozy setting.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
Home Restaurant
0.2 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Dumfries serving creative, locally sourced Mediterranean-inspired dishes with heartfelt hospitality.
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.
Cavens Arms
0.3 km
A welcoming Dumfries pub offering hearty traditional fare, a dedicated vegan menu, and a friendly atmosphere in the town centre.
Ivanos Italian Food
0.3 km
Casual Italian takeaway and pizza delivery in Dumfries, serving authentic flavors with a friendly local touch.
The Usual Place
0.4 km
A charming, community-focused café in a converted church offering fresh, ethical meals and warm hospitality in Dumfries.
Palmerston Cafe
0.6 km
A family-run Dumfries classic serving award-winning fish & chips and authentic Italian ice cream since 1969.
The Station Cafe Dumfries
0.6 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
La Maison Home & Gifts
0.0 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
Flourish
0.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
ALTERNATIVE CENTRE(DUMFRIES)
0.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and memorable gifts at Dumfries’ welcoming Alternative Centre on Queensberry Street.
Vintage 109
0.1 km
Discover Vintage 109, a cozy Dumfries boutique brimming with unique, well-priced vintage and handcrafted homewares that add charm to any space.
The Treasure Trove Dumfries
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Dumfries at The Treasure Trove.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
0.1 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.
Think Something Different
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
Circle Vintage
0.2 km
Explore the charm of Circle Vintage in Dumfries, your destination for unique and timeless fashion finds that celebrate the beauty of the past.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Bonmarché
0.2 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
20 Castle Street
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and timeless antiques with expert interior design at 20 Castle Street, nestled in the historic heart of Dumfries.
The Fragrance Shop
0.2 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Unique Ukes in Dumfries
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted ukuleles and a vibrant music community at Unique Ukes, Dumfries’ premier ukulele shop on Gordon Street.
Plum Boutique
0.4 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
The Range, Dumfries
0.5 km
A versatile home and garden store in Dumfries offering extensive products for every lifestyle and living space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Imperial
0.0 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
Hole I' The Wa' Inn
0.0 km
A historic and lively Dumfries pub offering authentic Scottish charm, good-value drinks, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Chancers Night Club
0.1 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Stag Bar
0.1 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
The Venue Dumfries
0.1 km
A vibrant hub for live music, nightlife, and social gatherings in the heart of Dumfries.
The Barrel
0.1 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dickies Bar
0.1 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
The Queensberry
0.2 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
The Dougie Arms
0.2 km
A cosy, welcoming pub in Dumfries known for its diverse ales, friendly atmosphere, and inclusive community spirit.
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 Lantern
0.4 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
Salutation Inn
0.5 km
A friendly, historic pub in Dumfries Market Square known for excellent pints and a welcoming atmosphere.
Devorgilla Lounge Bar
0.5 km
A cozy, dog-friendly lounge bar in Dumfries offering friendly service, relaxed vibes, and affordable drinks in the heart of Market Square.
Greens Sports Bar
0.6 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
The Riverside Bar
0.7 km
A friendly riverside pub in Dumfries offering diverse craft beers, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere beside Dock Park.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
0.5 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
47.0 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
47.1 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
47.4 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
47.7 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
57.7 km
Discover the charm of Wigtown at The Galloway Bar, where locals gather for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Square One
65.1 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
65.5 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
65.8 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
69.9 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
70.1 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
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
