Deliciously good for the soul

Wigtown, Scotland’s national book town, is hub of The Machars in southwest Scotland, an area rich in things to stimulate curiosity and senses. And here’s a cheerful, spacious guest house with a big heart. You’ll get all you’d seek of a well-run B&B but with the addition of a few visit-enhancing plusses. The welcome from owners Deb and Andrew Firth is 100% genuine; they're warm, yet know discretion. The food is terrific. It’s like staying with a friend who is a proud, loving, damn fine cook. Dinner and breakfast are each memorably good and, indeed, award-winning. We’ve raved over salt marsh lamb, local salmon and beef, gorgeous trad puds, fresh bread, fruity jams. It's Scottish soul food. Dogs welcome. Free wi-fi.

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> Best of the bedrooms is Moray: first floor bay window, big view, bath with shower, feature bed
> A spacious family room has a double bed plus bunk beds, freshly redecorated in 2010
> A ground floor double room is handy if you’d rather avoid the stairs; attractive design, shower
> Sitting room is roomy and cosily decorated in dark reds and features striking original doors
> Walls feature local art and photography, some of which is for sale, all of which adds atmosphere
> We especially praise the high-quality organic toiletries provided in generous dispensers
> The dining room is high-ceilinged, with a wooden floor and has an easy-going, relaxed feel
> Andrew runs a small, well-selected wine list and can dispense a wonderful Bladnoch malt
> Sit in the garden or stroll into the village (sorry, town!), down to the river, distillery or golf course
> The house will help with any enquiries for country sports, children, dogs, golf and grannies

Love it...

...The best room, Moray, with its sweeping view over Wigtown Bay nature reserve
...Deborah’s truly delicious, skilled cooking and the element of surprise she brings to it
...Hillcrest is a very sold old stone house so there’s plenty of privacy and peace to be had
...The edge of town setting means no noise at night and ample countryside views
...And the ever-so-slightly Bohemian feel with a dash of joie de vivre flung in