Hi Stuart
I read your request for pubs in D&G on the real ale newsgroup but somehow NTL refuse to let me post just now.
I know of an excellent friendly little pub that had great ale (no food or children) in Dumfries that I used to work/drink in when I lived down there.
I think it was mentioned on a previous post from the 94 beer guide, and its disappointing that it is no longer listed in current issues.
The Ship Inn, 97 St Michaels Street
You get to it by following signposts for the D&G Royal Infirmary/Crichton and it is right opposite St Michael's Church where Rabbie Burns is buried.
Also worth a look for a good meal and decent beer is the Cavens Arms on Buccleuch Street, I'm led to believe that the Tam O'Shanter, although I think listed this year, has gone downhill on the quality of their cask ales, perhaps worth missing that one out.
Hope this was helpful!
Will