Cavens Arms

Dumfries & Galloway


Engaging staff, 10 real ales on tap and a warm, contented buzz make this a legendary Dumfries pub. Generous portions of typical pub nosh backed by a long list of more adventurous daily specials make it one of the town’s most enjoyable places to eat, too. Gets packed on weekends (but staff will still try to find you a table).

If you were going to move to Dumfries, you’d make sure you were within a block or two of this place. There's no food on Monday, but the pub's still open. Under-14s aren't allowed to eat here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Dumfries & Galloway attractions

1. Devorgilla Bridge

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The red sandstone bridges arching over the River Nith are the most attractive feature of the town. Devorgilla Bridge (1431) is one of the oldest bridges…

2. Robert Burns Statue

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This statue at the end of High St features the poet with a dog at his feet.

3. Robert Burns Centre

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A worthwhile Burns exhibition in an old mill on the banks of the River Nith; it tells the story of the poet and Dumfries in the 1790s. The optional…

4. Dumfries Museum & Camera Obscura

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5. Burns House

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6. St Michael's Kirk

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7. Robert Burns Mausoleum

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8. Mabie Farm Park

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If your kids are complaining about historic sights and Robert Burns, pack up the clan and get down to this spot, between Dumfries and New Abbey off the…