Ya dancer, as they say in these parts, they’ve only gone and preserved Neverland, thanks to the Pan’s People of Dumfries.
For those living under the misconception that Neverland was a figment of JM Barrie’s (or Michael Jackson’s) imagination.
You might be surprised to learn that the land that time forget is a small historic town in south-west Scotland.
More associated with Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns, who lived and died here.
The House of Pan

But it was here at Moat Brae House that Barrie recalled in his own words was ‘the genesis of that nefarious work… Peter Pan.’
Where this son of Kirriemuir, Angus, played as a Dumfries pupil with the schoolchildren of the house.
And explored and made up games in the garden.
Moat House has had a chequered history since Barrie was here, and was almost lost to social housing.
Before a dedicated group of bibliophiles saved it for the next generation of readers.
My wordsmith day job colleague Julie among them.
The shadow of Peter

Moat House is right up our street where fantasy meets reality and Peter Pan was born.
And you can sit at the dining table with Barrie and his school friends.
And help catch Peter’s shadow and even put on a costume and star in a play of your own.
Moat House is also the home of the National Centre for Children’s Literature.
Where programmed events, exhibitions and displays are tied in with new book releases.
Of course the aim is for all children to explore the world as Barrie had,
And at Moat House you don’t have to go far to see it in all its glory.
In the Neverland Discovery Garden.
Where they tease that you might find among the towering trees and flowerbeds crocs, pirate ships, mermaids and more.
Pay a flying visit

Now Dumfries, an hour from Edinburgh, is one of Scotland’s hidden literary treasures.
Where a town of just 30,000 boasts heritage from two of Scotland’s, nay the world’s, great storytellers.
Why not pay a flying visit then on your Scottish holiday or short break and become one of Pan’s People in Dumfries?
Moat House is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
Adults £10, children £7, toddlers £4, students and senior citizens £8 and garden only entry £3.