A weekend of dancing and discussion
Join us in Dumfries for the 2026 Autumn Gathering and 97th AGM of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society.
Dancers from all over the world head to the annual Autumn Gathering to take part in classes and discussion forums, together with the Friday evening dance and Saturday ball. Whether attending as delegates or spectators, for just a class, the evening dances or the whole weekend, you’ll be sure of a warm Dumfries welcome.
A Fresh Start for the Autumn Gathering
For some time now, members have told us the same thing: the Autumn Gathering weekend has been becoming too expensive to attend. While the RSCDS has always worked hard to keep ticket prices as low as possible, rising venue and event costs in Glasgow and Edinburgh have made this increasingly difficult.
Accommodation has added to the challenge. With hotel prices in both cities continuing to climb, the overall cost of the weekend has put it out of reach for too many of our members.
We’ve listened—and this year, we’re making a change.
Welcome to Dumfries
We’re delighted to announce that this year’s Autumn Gathering will take place in Dumfries, at the Loreburn Hall—a move that allows us to create a more affordable and accessible weekend for everyone.
Dumfries offers excellent transport links. It is well connected by rail, with regular services to Glasgow and Carlisle, and the station is just a five-minute walk from the venue. For those travelling further afield, Glasgow and Edinburgh airports are both within around two to two-and-a-half hours by road or rail. The town is also easily reached by car via the A75, A76 and M74, with convenient parking nearby.
One of Dumfries’ biggest advantages is the availability of reasonably priced accommodation, all within easy walking distance of the venue. Average accommodation prices are 15% lower in Dumfries than Glasgow and there is a wide range of Hotels and guest houses within a 10 minute walk of Loreburn Hall.
With everything close at hand, Dumfries provides a welcoming, walkable, and much more affordable base for the weekend.
Lower Costs
By reducing our running costs, we’re able to pass those savings on to you. Ticket prices are expected to be around 20% lower than last year and we’re also pleased to be bringing back a Sunday morning class and additional activities.
We hope this new location will make it easier for more members to join us—and we look forward to welcoming you to Dumfries for a fantastic weekend of dancing, music, and community.
Save the Date
Autumn Gathering 2026 will run from November 6th to 8th. Full details will be available soon.