Castle Douglas boasts an array of independently run shops which have a wide selection of local arts and crafts, clothing and footware, hand-made jewellery and gifts galore. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants to tempt the taste buds if you would like to eat out, many serving local produce. For the sweeter tooth there is a selection of locally made food, from ice cream to hand-made chocolates.
The town has several pubs and even its own brewery for those who like a tipple. All this gives the town its own unique charm, not found in many other high streets nowadays, with something for every visitor.