Moffat

Moffat is a former spa town  lying on the River Annan, with a population of around 2,500. It was a centre of the wool trade across the region as well as being a former spa centre. Within the town the Star Hotel, a mere 20 ft (6 m) wide claims to be the narrowest hotel in the world.

In 1633 a mineral spring was discovered and attracted visitors  wishing to benefit from the reputed health-giving qualities of sulphurous water. From 1633 Moffat grew from a small village into a popular spa town. The sulphurous and saline waters of Moffat Spa were believed to have healing properties, specifically curative for skin conditions, gout, rheumatism and stomach complaints. A second spring was discovered in 1748, adding further to the town’s fame as a spa resort. The town became a tourist hotspot during Victorian times. The town was also a pivotal Scottish market in the wool trade, and this is commemorated with a statue of a ram by William Brodie in the town’s marketplace.

The town attracts many tourists all year round, both as visitors and as walkers in the surrounding hills. Notable buildings include the Annandale Arms Hotel, the Moffat Toffee Shop and The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, while its wide main street and surrounding lanes have a large number of restaurants and cafes. Moffat also has a stunning park with a boating pond and a memorial to Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding.