Whats so good about Dumfries you may ask. Well, its not the busiest location but theres enough activity to keep you occupied. Besides the regular 156 operated passeneger services there are frequent coal trains during the day (all 66 hauled). The pattern of services is irregular but from experience 11:30 until 13:30 should give 4 coal services plus a couple between 15:30 & 16:30. There is also a rush of freight in the evenings between 19:30 & 21:00 invoving coal & enterprise services - summertime probably best for observation!! Photography is excellent from the North end of the Station and the signals let you know when trains are due which allows you to choose the best platform to be on for photos. There is a snack bar/cafe on the Carlisle bound platform but for the beer monsters amongst you there are 54 pubs!!! within 10-15 minutes walking distance from the station. If you are driving (and obviously not drinking!!) then you can follow the G & SW line
from Annan (along the B724)then through Holywood, Closeburn, Thornhill, Sanquhar & Kirkconnel (along the A76)where there are numerous other superb photo opportunities.