Sandee logo Blue
  • Countries
  • Blogs
  • Map
  • Nude Beaches
  • Sharks
  • Beach News
Sandee logo Blue
Home
Countries
Blog
Map
Nude Beaches
Sharks
Beach News

Sandee logo Blue
instagramfacebooktwitteryoutube
Choose Your Beach! TM
  • Explore

  • Countries

  • Nude Beaches

  • Best Beaches

  • Sitemap

  • Company

  • About

  • Press

  • Mr. Beach

  • License Our Data

  • Legal

  • Privacy Policy

  • Cookie Policy

  • Terms and Conditions

  • Community

  • Beach News

  • Contact Us

  • Save Our Oceans

Explore
Company
Legal
Community

© 2025 by Sandee, LLC.   All rights reserved.

Home >  United Kingdom  >  Scotland  >  Dumfries  >  

Gillfoot Bay

Gillfoot Bay

United Kingdom, Scotland, Dumfries 

Sandee

Gillfoot Bay

United Kingdom, Scotland, Dumfries 

51.311

°F

|

°C

Icon

Clouds

10 Km82%5.05 m/s

1:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

51.3 °F11 °C

4:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

49.6 °F10 °C

7:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

49.8 °F10 °C

10:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

56.2 °F13 °C

1:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

56.7 °F14 °C

4:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.5 °F12 °C

7:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.6 °F11 °C

10:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

51.4 °F11 °C

1:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.9 °F10 °C

4:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

49.4 °F10 °C

7:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

49.3 °F9 °C

10:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.7 °F11 °C

1:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.6 °F12 °C

4:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

55.0 °F13 °C

7:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.8 °F12 °C

10:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.8 °F11 °C

1:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.6 °F10 °C

4:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.0 °F10 °C

7:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

48.8 °F9 °C

10:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

51.1 °F10 °C

1:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.8 °F13 °C

4:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.7 °F12 °C

7:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.6 °F11 °C

10:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.3 °F11 °C

1:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.5 °F10 °C

4:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

49.3 °F9 °C

7:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.3 °F10 °C

10:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.7 °F12 °C

1:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

56.8 °F14 °C

4:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

57.3 °F14 °C

7:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

55.6 °F13 °C

10:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.9 °F10 °C

1:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

48.8 °F9 °C

4:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

48.5 °F9 °C

7:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

51.9 °F11 °C

10:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.3 °F12 °C

1:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.1 °F11 °C

4:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.6 °F12 °C

7:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

56.5 °F13 °C

10:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

56.2 °F13 °C

Gillfoot Bay, located near Southerness in Dumfries, Scotland, is a serene coastal spot celebrated for its tranquil beauty and sweeping views of the Solway Firth. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque sunsets, the bay offers a blend of rocky shorelines and sandy stretches, making it a favorite for both local residents and visitors seeking a quieter alternative to busier tourist destinations. The surrounding landscape is rich in natural charm, providing opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and enjoy the raw, untouched character of Scotland’s southwestern coastline.

Visitors frequently praise Gillfoot Bay for its sense of seclusion and its appeal to those looking to unwind away from the crowds. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely beach walk, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the rugged coastal scenery, Gillfoot Bay delivers an authentic Scottish seaside experience. The area is also part of a region steeped in maritime history and offers easy access to charming nearby villages and historic sites, adding cultural depth to a visit here.

Accommodation options near Gillfoot Bay cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Parkdean Resorts Southerness Holiday Park stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering a range of lodges and holiday homes with scenic coastal views and on-site amenities including free Wi-Fi. For those seeking a traditional Scottish hotel experience, Premier Inn Dumfries provides modern, budget-friendly rooms and complimentary parking, making it an excellent base for exploring the wider region.

For a more refined stay, Holiday Inn Dumfries by IHG offers relaxed accommodations with a restaurant, lounge, and free Wi-Fi, all set in a tranquil environment near the city center. Those willing to venture slightly further can enjoy the elegant settings of Mabie House Hotel, a 17th-century manor surrounded by lush forest, or experience classic Victorian comfort at The Cairndale Hotel & Spa, which combines traditional rooms with a luxury spa and free breakfasts. Each property receives high marks for hospitality, cleanliness, and overall guest satisfaction.

Gillfoot Bay and its surrounding area provide a selection of amenities to enhance your beach day. While the natural setting is relatively undeveloped, visitors can find essential facilities such as accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic areas in nearby Southerness and at holiday parks. Rental equipment for leisure activities is available through local providers, especially in peak season. Showers and changing facilities are more commonly found at larger beaches and holiday parks, which are just a short drive away.

For those planning a full day by the sea, it’s advisable to come prepared with your own supplies, such as food, water, and sun protection, as on-site vendors are limited in this secluded spot. However, the peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled scenery more than compensate for the lack of commercial amenities, offering a true escape into nature.

Gillfoot Bay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and casual beachgoers alike. Swimming is possible during calm weather, though the waters can be cool and currents moderate, so caution is advised. The area is popular for coastal walks and hiking, with trails that offer stunning views of the Solway Firth and surrounding countryside. Birdwatching is another favored activity, as the bay’s location along migratory routes attracts a variety of seabirds and waders.

For those interested in water sports, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are gaining popularity, especially during the warmer months. Anglers also frequent the area, drawn by the promise of good fishing from the shore. While surfing is less common due to the bay’s sheltered nature, nearby beaches offer better conditions for surfing and windsurfing. Volleyball and other beach games are more typical at larger, busier beaches nearby, but the quiet charm of Gillfoot Bay makes it ideal for peaceful relaxation and nature appreciation.

Gillfoot Bay and its surrounding beaches are committed to providing accessible experiences for visitors with mobility impairments. Designated accessible parking spaces are available at nearby parking lots, and ramps lead to several beach access points, though some natural terrain may be uneven. Wheelchair-friendly paths are more commonly found in larger, developed beach areas such as Southerness, where facilities like accessible restrooms and picnic areas are also available.

Beach wheelchairs, designed with large tires for sand mobility, may be available at nearby holiday parks or through local providers, depending on the season. For the most up-to-date information on accessibility features and equipment rentals, visitors are encouraged to contact local tourist information centers or accommodation providers in advance.

Parking at Gillfoot Bay is primarily available at designated lots in nearby Southerness, which are suitable for both cars and larger vehicles such as RVs. Accessible parking spaces are provided for visitors with disabilities, and free parking is often available, particularly in the quieter off-season. During peak months, parking can fill up quickly, particularly at the most popular lots closest to the beach access points.

Street parking is also an option, but spaces can be limited. It’s recommended to arrive early in the day, especially on weekends and public holidays, to secure a convenient spot. Clear signage and proximity to the beach make for easy access, ensuring that your visit starts and ends smoothly.

Gillfoot Bay and the nearby village of Southerness have a rich maritime heritage, with the Southerness Lighthouse being one of the oldest in Scotland, constructed in 1749 to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Solway Firth. The area is also renowned for its diverse birdlife, including oystercatchers and curlews, making it a favorite spot for ornithologists and nature photographers.

Local legend speaks of smugglers and shipwrecks along this stretch of coast, with stories passed down through generations. The bay’s unique geography, shaped by centuries of tidal action, creates a constantly shifting landscape that reveals hidden rock pools and fossilized remains at low tide. Such features make Gillfoot Bay a fascinating destination for anyone intrigued by both natural history and local folklore.

The area surrounding Gillfoot Bay is rich in attractions that appeal to both nature lovers and history buffs. Southerness, the nearest village, is home to the historic Southerness Lighthouse, an iconic landmark that dates back to the 18th century and offers panoramic views of the coastline. The region is also dotted with walking paths and nature reserves, such as the nearby Mabie Forest, which features extensive trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking.

For those interested in local culture, the town of Dumfries, a short drive away, boasts museums, galleries, and the childhood home of poet Robert Burns. Coastal drives and scenic lookouts provide countless opportunities to explore the unique beauty of the Solway Firth, while proximity to charming fishing villages like Kippford adds to the area’s appeal for day trips and leisurely excursions.

Basic Details

INParking

INRestroom Available

INBrown

INVCM4+4R Dumfries, UK

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPicnic Table

  • Activities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesSurfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesStairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Gillfoot Bay - Beach Map

    Loading Beaches...

    Explore Top Destinations

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Gillfoot Bay have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides paid parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Gillfoot Bay have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Gillfoot Bay a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Gillfoot Bay good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Gillfoot Bay have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Gillfoot Bay a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Gillfoot Bay?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple restaurant options near or on the beach.

    What are the activities at Gillfoot Bay?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Bike Paths, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Paddleboarding, Snorkeling, Surfing.

    Does Gillfoot Bay have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is Gillfoot Bay a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is Gillfoot Bay good for surfing?

    Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at this Beach.

    Beaches Near Gillfoot Bay

    Sandee Powillimount Beach

    Powillimount Beach

    Powillimount Beach
    Southerness, GBR(0.66 Miles)
    Sandee Southerness Beach

    Southerness Beach

    Southerness Beach
    Southerness, GBR(0.68 Miles)
    Sandee Innit Beach

    Innit Beach

    Innit Beach
    Southerness, GBR(0.79 Miles)
    Sandee Carsethorn

    Carsethorn

    Carsethorn
    Carsethorn, GBR(2.91 Miles)
    Sandee Sandyhills Beach

    Sandyhills Beach

    Sandyhills Beach
    Sandyhills, GBR(5.38 Miles)
    Sandee Portling Bay

    Portling Bay

    Portling Bay
    Sandyhills, GBR(5.91 Miles)
    Sandee Silloth Beach

    Silloth Beach

    Silloth Beach
    Allerdale, GBR(7.99 Miles)
    Sandee Rockcliffe Beach

    Rockcliffe Beach

    Rockcliffe Beach
    Rockcliffe, GBR(8.37 Miles)
    Sandee Skinburness Beach

    Skinburness Beach

    Skinburness Beach
    Allerdale, GBR(8.93 Miles)
    Sandee Allonby Beach

    Allonby Beach

    Allonby Beach
    Allerdale, GBR(9.95 Miles)

    EXPERT ADVICE AND TIPS

    Beach Blogs

    Read All Blogs
    Sandee - Blog / Nudism Laws in United Kingdom: A Comprehensive Overview

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    Nudism Laws in United Kingdom: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism Laws in United Kingdom: A Comprehensive Overview

    As a travel enthusiast and advocate for naturism, I believe it's important to be aware of the laws and cultural attitudes towards nudism when visiting different countries. In this blog, I will explore the nudism laws in the United Kingdom and provide some travel advice for those interested in naturist activities.

    Read All Blogs