Situated on the border between Scotland and England, the Gretna Chase Hotel is in an ideal location for exploring what both Dumfries and Galloway and Cumbria have to offer.

Located in Gretna Green itself is the World Famous Old Blacksmith's Shop Centre. This features the Gretna Green Story Exhibition and a number of shops. If shopping is what you're after, then the Gretna Gateway Outlet Village is perfect - where you can find famous brands, such as Tommy Hilfiger, at discount prices.

The popular tourist town of Moffat is just over 30 miles north of Gretna. With its famous Woollen Mill, toffee and boating lake, Moffat is an ideal location for a day out. If scenery is what you're after, the Grey Mare's Tale waterfall, outside Moffat, is quite spectacular.

History can be found in abundance in the area. Lochmaben Castle, just a short journey north, was once the home of Robert the Bruce's family - indeed, the future King of Scotland was born there in 1274. In the winter of 1313, Robert the Bruce went into hiding in a cave on the nearby Cove Estate. While he was in the cave, suffering from the misery of defeat, he watched a spider trying to build a web - it kept falling, but kept attempting to complete the web again and again until it succeeded. This is thought to have been the origin of the famous saying, "If at first you don't succeed, try and try again."

Dumfries, only a short drive from Gretna, was the birthplace of Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns. There visitors can view his house, and see artefacts from the period. Ellisland Farm, the farmhouse which Burns built, also contains exhibits relating to the poet. Burns' final resting place is also located in Dumfries - at Burns' Mausoleum in St. Michael's Churchyard.

Just 10 minutes south of Gretna is the historic city of Carlisle, with its magnificent Cathedral. The Cathedral was founded in 1122, and items of interest include the East Window with its tracery containing very fine 14th century stained glass. Whilst in Carlisle, visitors can also browse the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. This attraction gives a detailed and interesting history of Carlisle - with the spectacular Millennium Gallery offering a unique collection of local minerals, rare archaeological finds and interactive exhibits.

Birdoswald, in Cumbria, is the home of a Roman Fort, and where many begin walking alongside almost two miles of Hadrian's Wall. The Birdoswald Roman Fort would have housed 1000 soldiers. Today, the outside walls of the fort and the south, east and west gateways can be seen.

Slightly further afield, although not to be missed, is the magnificent Lake District. From the breathtaking scenery to the numerous outdoor activities, the Lake District provides a great backdrop for a perfect day out.