Annandale Distillery Visitor Centre

A sleeping beauty, restored to life after a nearly hundred-year hiatus, Annandale Distillery flung open its doors and casks again in 2014. Handsome red sandstone buildings, set around a cobbled courtyard, are topped by an elegant chimney and spired roof, beneath which lie the magical rumblings of a working distillery where you can pick up a take-away dram for later. The friendly team offer tours (on the hour, every hour) and will tell you about the history of the area: this is Robert the Bruce and Robert Burns land; you can try the whiskys named after them, with drivers’ packs available to take with you if you’re behind the wheel.

The dog-friendly Maltings café is open to all and serves finger-licking cheese scones fresh out of the oven alongside soup, handmade sausage rolls and huge filled sandwiches (try the melted brie and salsa). The towering cakes are impressive – while the two-course afternoon teas use the finest Scottish produce. Waney-edged wood, exposed beams, rosy stone walls and iron pillars create a soothing spot. Cluster around a striking triangular table or relax on the deep, purple sofa and enjoy a rich, strong coffee or loose leaf tea. Soak up the sun in the courtyard if the weather allows.

There’s bags of parking a short walk away in the car park, with closer options for disabled visitors.