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The 10 Best Dumfries and Galloway Castles

Dumfries and Galloway is a region steeped in history and home to some of Scotland’s most beautiful castles. From the grandeur of Caerlaverock to the towering walls of Threave, there are plenty of options to explore. Here are the top 10 Best Castles in Dumfries and Galloway, ranked by popularity, reviews and ratings:

Threave Castle in Dumfries and galloway

BQA Hotel and Castle Locations

Discover the enchantment of Dumfries and Galloway’s rich history and captivating castles during your stay at The BQA Hotel in Dumfries and Galloway. Nestled amidst the region’s picturesque landscapes, our traditional country hotel is the perfect base for exploring these iconic landmarks.

From towering turrets to weathered ruins, each castle on the map below offers a glimpse into Scotland’s dramatic past. And after a day of adventure, return to the comforts of The BQA Hotel — where you can relax in elegant rooms, enjoy a hearty meal in our dining room, and share tales over a dram in the bar or beer garden.

Overview of Local Castles

  1. Caerlaverock Castle – Caerlaverock Castle is an impressive 13th-century fortress that features a moat and a great hall. It was a stronghold of the powerful Maxwell family and later played a key role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s towers and ramparts, as well as its beautiful surroundings.
  2. Drumlanrig Castle – Located in Thornhill, Drumlanrig Castle is a 17th-century mansion built for the Douglas family. The castle boasts beautiful gardens, a sculpture park, and an extensive art collection, as well as a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, cycling, and hiking.
  3. Threave Castle – Threave Castle is an impressive 14th-century tower house located on an island in the River Dee. The castle was once home to the Black Douglases, a powerful family that played a significant role in Scottish history. Visitors can reach the castle via a small boat ride and explore the ruins of the tower and its surrounding gardens.
  4. Morton Castle – Morton Castle is a 15th-century fortress located on a hill near the town of Dumfries. It has a long and turbulent history, having been besieged by both Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and take in the beautiful views of Morton Loch.
  5. Cardoness Castle – Cardoness Castle is a 15th-century tower house located near Gatehouse of Fleet. The castle features spiral staircases, circular towers and beautiful views over Fleet Bay. It also has a fascinating history, having been owned by the powerful MacCulloch family for over 400 years.
  6. MacLellan’s Castle – MacLellan’s Castle is a 16th-century ruin located in the town of Kirkcudbright. It was once a grand castle with a courtyard, a great hall and a well. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s remains and its surrounding gardens.
  7. Sanquhar Castle – Sanquhar Castle is a 13th-century fortress located near the town of Sanquhar. It was once a stronghold of the powerful Crichton family and saw many battles during its long history. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  8. Kenmure Castle – Kenmure Castle is a 17th-century mansion located near the town of New Galloway. The castle was built for the Gordon family and features beautiful gardens, a boating lake and a fishing pond. It is now available for private hire as a wedding venue or event space.
  9. Torthorwald Castle – Torthorwald Castle is a 14th-century fortress located near Lockerbie. It was once a grand castle with a courtyard and a great hall. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s remains and its surrounding gardens.
  10. Dunskey Castle – Dunskey Castle is a 16th-century tower house located near Portpatrick. The castle boasts stunning views over the Scottish coast and has a fascinating history, having played a pivotal role in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or nature, Dumfries and Galloway has plenty of beautiful castles to explore. From the grandeur of Caerlaverock to the ruins of Kirkcudbright, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Caerlaverock Castle

Caerlaverock Castle is one of the most impressive medieval strongholds in Scotland. The castle’s unique triangular twin-towered structure, set in a moat, makes for an exceptional sight. It was built in the 13th century for John Balliol, the King of Scotland.

The castle was besieged several times and changed hands between the Scottish and the English. In 1300, the castle was under siege by Edward I, the King of England and after 60 days, the Scots surrendered. Later in 1640, the castle was besieged once again, this time by the Covenanters who damaged the tower walls with their artillery.

Despite this damage, the castle still proudly stands and has been under State care since the 20th century. It is now open to visitors, who can admire the castle’s remarkable features — such as the pink sandstone construction and the spiral staircase — that have withstood explosions and sieges over the years.

In conclusion, Caerlaverock Castle has a rich history marked by war and destruction, yet it has managed to retain its unique triangular, twin-towered moated structure. It is a symbol of Scotland’s turbulent past, and its current status under State care ensures that visitors can explore the castle’s incredible architecture and learn about its history.

Drumlanrig Castle

2. Drumlanrig Castle

Drumlanrig Castle is the Dumfriesshire home of the 10th Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. This magnificent castle is situated in an enchanting garden and within a vast country estate. The castle boasts exquisite Scottish architecture with a Renaissance style. One of its finest features is its oval staircase, a real work of art, while the circular towers and incredible views across the Nith Valley make it a feast for the eyes.

The treasures of Drumlanrig Castle are vast and impressive, reputedly priceless, featuring works by artists such as Rembrandt, Sir Joshua Reynolds, and many others. Such artistic gems are cherished possessions of the castle.

For visitors, there is something to suit everyone, from the adventure playground to the extensive flora and fauna found within the beautiful gardens. However, the 300-year-old silver chandelier is the highlight for many visitors.

In summary, Drumlanrig Castle, a new Renaissance-style fortress that emerged in the 17th century, is renowned for its spectacular Scottish architecture, featuring circular towers and an oval staircase, as well as priceless artworks, an adventure playground, and enchanting gardens. In essence, it is the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends. Don’t forget to visit this fascinating attraction when exploring the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland.

Drumlanrig Castle

3. Threave Castle

Threave Castle is a remarkable tower house located on a fortified island on the River Dee in Dumfries and Galloway. Built in 1369 by Archibald ‘the Grim’, the castle was initially intended to serve as a stronghold for the Black Douglases. However, it later changed hands many times over the centuries.

Despite being attacked repeatedly, Threave Castle managed to survive and remained resilient in the face of many adversities. It’s still standing today, albeit in a state of ruin, offering visitors a glimpse into its turbulent history.

To access Threave Castle, visitors must take a short boat ride and then walk along marked paths from the ferry point. Upon arrival, the castle’s towering walls and fortified structure leave visitors awestruck. The ruins offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making them an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

The castle is currently cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, a government agency responsible for preserving Scotland’s historic sites. The agency manages the maintenance and preservation of the castle ruins, allowing visitors to continue admiring and appreciating the historical significance of Threave Castle.

In summary, Threave Castle is a unique and historic site in Dumfries and Galloway. It has withstood numerous attacks and changed hands over the centuries, offering visitors the chance to step back in time and explore the castle’s tumultuous past. With its location on a fortified island on the River Dee, it provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to witness a remarkable piece of Dumfries and Galloway History.

Drumlanrig Castle

4. Morton Castle

Morton Castle is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castle ruins in Dumfries and Galloway. Although it is now a shell of its former self, visitors can still explore its remarkable features and learn about its fascinating history.

The castle’s history dates back to the 12th century when it was constructed as a rectangular two-storey block with thick walls and a sturdy gatehouse. It was initially built to guard the road to Ayrshire and was occupied by King John Balliol in the early 14th century.

Despite its impressive fortifications, Morton Castle was destroyed under the terms of the Treaty of Berwick in 1357. It was subsequently rebuilt in the late 14th century and occupied by the powerful Douglas family from the 15th century onwards. This family added the circular tower with its notorious pit prison and other impressive features to the castle.

The castle remained occupied by the Douglas family for several centuries, its turbulent history marked by sieges, wars, and power struggles, culminating in the castle’s ultimate abandonment in the early 18th century.

Despite its turbulent past, Morton Castle is now a breathtaking sight to behold. Its impressive features include the circular tower with its pit prison, the sturdy gatehouse, and the rectangular two-storey block. The castle ruins offer visitors a glimpse into their rich cultural and historical heritage.

Visitors to Morton Castle can also enjoy the stunning setting overlooking the Morton Loch and Lowther Hills, offering a picturesque backdrop for a picnic or stroll on the castle grounds. The nature trail that leads around the castle ruins is also an excellent way to explore the area.
In summary, Morton Castle is an excellent destination to visit for learning about the Douglas family and their tumultuous history. The castle’s impressive features, including its circular tower, two-storey block, and gatehouse, are among the most notable in Dumfries and Galloway. Its picturesque setting, overlooking the Morton Loch and Lowther Hills, also makes it an ideal place to enjoy a picnic or a quiet stroll.

5. Cardoness Castle

Cardoness Castle is a stunning example of late 15th-century architecture, situated in the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland. Built by the McCulloch lairds, this impressive six-story Scottish tower-house structure was a symbol of their wealth and power.

Over the years, Cardoness Castle suffered its fair share of battles and sieges, eventually falling into the hands of the powerful Murray family in the late 17th century. Despite efforts to maintain and preserve the castle, it ultimately fell into disrepair and was abandoned by the early 18th century.

Thankfully, the castle was rescued from ruin and is now a popular attraction for visitors interested in exploring Scotland’s rich history. One of the most notable features of Cardoness Castle is its spiral staircase, which visitors can climb to reach the top of the tower and enjoy breathtaking views of Fleet Bay and Solway Firth.

As visitors wander through the castle’s corridors, they can admire the grand fireplaces that served as the centrepieces of each room. The castle’s walls are adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful masonry, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the McCullochs during their time at Cardoness Castle.

Perched on a steep hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, Cardoness Castle offers visitors an impressive panoramic view of the landscape, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Scotland’s beautiful scenery.
In conclusion, Cardoness Castle is a treasure trove of history and architectural wonders that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its stunning views, intricate carvings, and grand fireplaces, it’s no wonder that this castle is one of the most popular destinations in Dumfries and Galloway.

Note: Cardoness Castle is currently closed and only the grounds are accessible.

6. MacLellan’s Castle

MacLellan’s Castle is a 16th-century ruin situated in the charming country town of Kirkcudbright on the Solway Coast. The L-plan castle was built by Sir Thomas MacLellan, a wealthy merchant, to serve as both his home and a location for socialising and entertaining guests.

The castle is laid out over three floors, with the ground floor used for storage and some service rooms. The first floor would have served as the main living area, featuring grand rooms for entertaining guests and hosting banquets. The second floor features guest bedrooms, providing luxurious accommodations for visitors.

Ownership of the castle changed hands several times throughout its history, including a period of abandonment in the 18th century. Fortunately, the castle was saved from complete dilapidation, and in the 19th century, it was used as a courthouse and later as a prison.

In the 20th century, the castle’s ownership was transferred to Historic Environment Scotland, which has worked to conserve and restore the castle, making it accessible to visitors. MacLellan’s Castle is now a fascinating historical site, providing insight into the lives of the town’s early elites and the architectural styles of the time.

Today, visitors can explore the castle’s ruins, imagining what life was like in the opulent interiors nearly five centuries ago. The castle’s important historical significance makes it a must-visit site for anyone interested in Scottish history and architecture.

Note: MacLellan’s Castle is currently closed for masonry work.

7. Sanquhar Castle

Sanquhar Castle, nestled in the picturesque region of Dumfries and Galloway, stands as a magnificent testament to Scotland’s rich history and architectural heritage. This imposing fortress, with its formidable stone walls and commanding presence, offers a captivating glimpse into the past.

Perched on a strategic hilltop, Sanquhar Castle boasts a strong and sturdy design, reflecting its medieval origins. The castle’s architecture is a striking blend of both defensive fortifications and domestic comfort. The sturdy stone walls, meticulously constructed with rough-hewn granite, offer a formidable defence against potential invaders, while also lending an air of grandeur to the structure.

As you approach the castle, you’ll be greeted by an imposing gatehouse, its entrance guarded by a robust portcullis. This formidable barrier serves as a reminder of the castle’s defensive nature, protecting the noble residents within. Once past the gatehouse, a sense of awe washes over you as you enter the inner courtyard, surrounded by the castle’s towering walls.

The central tower, or keep, is a prominent feature of Sanquhar Castle. Rising proudly against the sky, it showcases a fusion of architectural styles, with elements of both Norman and Gothic influences. The keep, with its tall windows and narrow arrow slits, offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, enabling its occupants to survey both the peaceful lands and the potential threats that lie beyond.

Inside the castle, you’ll discover a maze of rooms and chambers, each with its unique character. The Great Hall, the heart of the castle, exudes an air of grandeur. Its soaring ceilings, adorned with ornate wooden beams, create an atmosphere of opulence and elegance. Here, lords and ladies would gather for lavish feasts, their conversations echoing through the grand hall, and the flickering light from the large hearth casting a warm glow across the room.

Exploring further, you’ll come across winding staircases, secret passageways, and hidden alcoves, each revealing a different aspect of the castle’s history. The living quarters, with their stone fireplaces and tapestries, provide a glimpse into the everyday lives of the castle’s inhabitants.

Surrounded by verdant grounds and rolling hills, Sanquhar Castle offers a serene and captivating setting. Its rugged exterior and well-preserved architecture transport visitors back in time, allowing them to immerse themselves in the stories and legends that have unfolded within its walls.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a captivating journey into Scotland’s past, a visit to Sanquhar Castle promises a memorable and enriching experience, showcasing the grandeur and resilience of this remarkable medieval fortress.

8. Kenmore Castle

Kenmore Castle is a stunning, yet spooky, ruin located in the charming village of Kenmore, Perthshire. The castle, originally constructed in the 17th century as a fortified house for the Campbell clan, is believed to be haunted by the Douglas family, who later inherited the property through marriage.

One of the most notable features of Kenmore Castle is the family arms above the south door, which indicate the transfer of ownership from the Campbells to the Douglases. The castle has undergone numerous changes throughout its history; it was transformed into a Victorian mansion by the Douglases before falling into disrepair in the 20th century.

Interestingly, Kenmore Castle is also significant for being the birthplace of John Balliol. Balliol was a Scottish king who ruled from 1292 to 1296 and was famously deposed by Edward I of England. The castle has also witnessed some important events in Scottish history, including the Battle of the Pass of Killicrankie in 1689.

Despite its ruinous state, Kenmore Castle’s imposing presence can still be felt by visitors. The combination of its rich history and eerie atmosphere makes it a popular destination for those interested in the supernatural or Scottish history.

9. Torthorwald Castle

Torthorwald Castle stands as a poignant reminder of Scotland’s medieval past. This enchanting fortress, steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty, offers a glimpse into a bygone era.

Approaching Torthorwald Castle, you are greeted by a sight that evokes both awe and wonder. The castle, built predominantly of locally sourced stone, exudes a sense of timeless grandeur. Its imposing walls rise majestically, commanding attention and stirring the imagination.

At the heart of the castle stands a sturdy tower, a prominent feature that dominates the surrounding landscape. This tower, with its thick walls and narrow windows, showcases the castle’s defensive purpose. Its architectural design is characterised by a blend of styles, reflecting the castle’s evolution over the centuries. From its early beginnings as a simple defensive structure to its later additions of more refined living quarters, Torthorwald Castle tells a story of architectural progression.

Entering the castle, you step into a world where echoes of the past reverberate through the halls. The Great Hall, with its high ceilings and remnants of intricate plasterwork, transports you to a time of lavish gatherings and noble feasts. The flickering light of torches would dance upon the stone walls as lords and ladies dined, their conversations filling the air with an air of revelry.

Exploring further, you’ll discover a labyrinth of rooms and chambers, each with its unique character. Hidden nooks and crannies offer glimpses into the castle’s rich history. From hidden staircases that wind their way through the tower to hidden passages leading to secret chambers, Torthorwald Castle holds tales waiting to be uncovered.

As you wander through the castle, you can almost feel the presence of those who once called it home. The stone fireplaces, worn with age, and the remnants of intricate tapestries offer a glimpse into the lives of the castle’s inhabitants, providing insight into their daily routines and customs of the past.

Surrounded by idyllic countryside, Torthorwald Castle is a place of tranquillity and beauty. The well-preserved ruins and the peaceful surroundings allow visitors to immerse themselves in the castle’s history, inviting contemplation and reflection.

A visit to Torthorwald Castle is not only a journey into the past but also an opportunity to appreciate the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time. It is a place where the stories of Scotland’s medieval heritage come alive, transporting you to a different era and inviting you to explore the rich tapestry of the castle’s history.

10. Dunskey Castle

Dunskey Castle is a ruined tower house located on a rocky promontory on the western coast of Dumfries and Galloway. Built in the 16th century, the castle was once home to the Adair family, who added an L-plan extension to the existing structure.

Visitors should exercise extra caution when visiting Dunskey Castle, as hazardous cliffs surround the area. It is recommended to stick to the designated coastal path and avoid any unnecessary risks.

Although the castle’s interior is not accessible to the public, the exterior features are still worthy of admiration. The castle’s prominent location on the rocky shoreline and its unique L-plan layout make it a notable landmark worth visiting.

Despite being in a state of ruin, the castle’s pink sandstone walls, spiral staircase, and circular towers remain visible, attracting visitors from near and far. The turbulent history of Dunskey Castle only adds to its allure, and visitors can sense the stories of its past as they take in the beautiful coastal views.

So while visitors will not be able to explore the interior of Dunskey Castle, the castle’s exterior and its picturesque surroundings make it a must-see for those visiting Dumfries and Galloway.

Best Dumfries and Galloway Castles: In Conclusion

In summary, the magnificent castles in our region offer an extraordinary glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur and heritage of a bygone era. By choosing to stay at THE BQA Hotel, you not only position yourself at the heart of this castle-rich landscape but also open the doors to a world of comfort, elegance, and impeccable service.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, our hotel provides the ideal retreat after a day of castle exploration. From the moment you step into our welcoming lobby to the time you retire to your luxurious Thornhill Hotel Room, we strive to exceed your expectations and ensure your stay is nothing short of exceptional.

Join us at The BQA Hotel and embark on a captivating journey through time, where history and hospitality seamlessly intertwine. Book your stay today and let the enchantment of the castles and the comfort of our hotel create a truly unforgettable experience.

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