Things to do in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland: The Best Castles

This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. Cross the River Dee by boat to visit this enchanting castle on its own island. Once the bustling base of its creator, Archibald the Grim, it is now an ideal spot for exploring, picnicking and perhaps, painting. The island is rich with wildflowers in summer; you might also see ospreys and otters hunting in the river. The castle was besieged by King James II for two months in 1455, and fell after the king bribed the garrison to surrender.

This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. A fine example of a Scottish tower-house castle, Cardoness Castle was built in the later 15th century as the fortified residence of the McCullochs. Cardoness Castle is a well-preserved ruin where you can admire the exquisite architectural detail of this still magnificent structure, including the splendid fireplace and wall-cupboard where the family's best silverware was displayed, touch the intricate stone carvings and soak up the superb views over the beautiful Fleet Bay to the Solway Firth beyond.

Set on the spectacular 80,000 acre Queensberry Estate complete with Country Park and Victorian Gardens, Drumlanrig Castle presents one of the finest examples of late 17th century Renaissance architecture in Scotland and an internationally renowned art collection. Beyond the castle are over 40 acres of enchanting gardens and a wide range of activities including walking, mountain biking, adventure playground, wildlife watching, Scottish Cycle Museum, Landrover tours, Ranger-led walks, events programme as well as shopping and catering.

Caerlaverock Castle is now open and we are delighted to welcome you back. Booking in advance is essential. Find out more and book at restarthistory.scot. With its moat, twin towered gatehouse and imposing battlements, this awe-inspiring castle is the epitome of the medieval stronghold and one of the finest castles in Scotland. Although ruined, Caerlaverock is still a substantial structure and you can explore many different features within its unique triangular ground plan. The castle's turbulent history owes much to its proximity to England which brought it into the brutal cross-border conflicts and you can enjoy a fascinating siege warfare exhibition complete with reconstructions of medieval siege engines.

This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. Visit this impressive townhouse and discover a 16th century family home. The remains of this late 16th century house show how architecture changed from the heavily defended tower house to a new, more domestic scale. Sir Thomas MacLellan of Bombie built the castle in 1582 to function as a grand family home. Head ‘below stairs’ into the dark vaults to get a sense of the working conditions of family servants and look out for the Laird’s Lug’, a secret spy hole behind the great hall fireplace, from which the laird could eavesdrop on his guests.