Moffat Theatre

The Victorian theatre in Moffat is a proper little time capsule - all red velvet seats and ornate plasterwork that you don't see much anymore. Built in 1887, it's the kind of place where you half expect to see gaslit lanterns still flickering in the corners. The interior is genuinely beautiful if you get the chance to peek inside during a performance or tour, though it's worth checking what's actually on before you make the trip.

It's really for theatre-goers and architecture enthusiasts rather than families after a day out - you're not going to wander in on a whim and have a laugh. The town of Moffat itself is pleasant enough as a Highland stopping point, with decent shops and cafes, so you could easily base a couple of nights here. If you're camping at Moffat Camping and Caravanning Club Site just down the road, the theatre adds a bit of cultural substance to what's otherwise a fairly quiet corner of Dumfries and Galloway.

Contact the theatre direct for current show listings and opening hours - the programme changes seasonally. A matinee performance on a rainy afternoon beats sitting in a caravan, frankly, and you might catch some surprisingly accomplished local productions. It's worth including if you're already in the area, but don't make it your sole reason for visiting Moffat.