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  6. How Queensberry House became part of their community

How Queensberry House became part of their community

4 minute read • Last updated: 10 March 2025

Queensberry House is a Bed and Breakfast in the historic spa town of Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway. The award winning three-bedroom property is full of character and is the perfect base for exploring all that south-west Scotland has to offer. 

Owners Caroline and Miles have been running the business for 10 years. Previously Caroline was a travel journalist and Miles a builder. They’re passionate about Moffat and the wider region and thought running a bed and breakfast “might be a fun job and it is!” 

Hear how Caroline and Miles work together with their community to promote Dumfries and Galloway as a destination. 

In this article:

  • Working in partnership 
  • Becoming an award winner 
  • Advice for other businesses

Working in partnership 

Visitors at the Moffat Walking Festival

Visitors enjoy the Moffat Walking Festival

© Moffat Walking Festival

We love meeting other businesses, sharing the joy and unique experiences and landscapes in this hidden and spectacular part of Scotland.

Caroline and Miles are co-founders of Moffat Walking Weekend. During this event they collaborate with tourism businesses Mostly Ghostly tours, the Moffat Distillery and Moffat Community Observatory.  

The Walking Weekend makes a significant contribution to the town with increased footfall benefitting local cafes, restaurants, other accommodation providers, shops, and visitor attractions. “By bringing ‘temporary locals’ to the town for a specific event, it entices them to return.”  

They have also collaborated with Scottish Community Tourism (Scoto) bringing together local community groups such as Visit Moffat and the Eagle Festival to show off the town’s dark skies and stunning landscape. They make the most of any partnership opportunities. “We were interviewed by journalist Robin McKelvie recently with Scoto about a blog on the Moffat Walking Weekend.” 

“We can make a big impact by collaborating. Let’s share experiences and knowledge to build on our collective offering and inspire each other along the way.”

Becoming an award winner 

Queensberry House winning a Scottish Thistle Award

Queensberry House winning a Scottish Thistle Award

© VisitScotland

It is also a huge marketing boost to be able to call ourselves award-winning and brag about it all over our social media and to our mailing list. 

The Scottish Thistle Awards honour the very best individuals, businesses and partnerships in the tourism industry. Queensberry House were winners in the regional finals in 2022 and 2024.

“It’s so exciting for us to be included in the cream of Scottish tourism and it inspires us to up our game when we network with other businesses across the whole sector.” 

The Thistle judges praised them for driving local community engagement across the Moffat area. Award feedback said that they demonstrated a true distinction within the industry with their commitment and passion. They recognised their work was making a difference to tourism in the area and helping to raise the standard of excellence.

Advice for other businesses

Go to as many conferences and workshops as you can. You will always learn something to take back to your business.

On their business journey so far Caroline and Miles have reached out for support.

“Use VisitScotland’s and the South of Scotland Destination Alliance resources to build on your marketing and hospitality. Build relationships with businesses whether it’s with local like-minded organisations or completely different sectors.” 

Working with the community

Events and festivals are the perfect opportunity to work closely with your community. Involving local people is a great way to give a sense of ownership. It can offer an outlet for creativity and an opportunity to try something new and meet new people.  

Find out how you can encourage community participation and be inclusive to all.

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