Overview
Watch a forbidding island fortress come into view as you cross the River Dee by boat. Built by Archibald 'the Grim' in 1369 as a stronghold for the Black Douglases, the massive tower house stands 30m tall.
For 21 years the castle was the seat of the powerful Margaret, Lady of Galloway. It is now an ideal spot for exploring, picnicking and, perhaps, painting. The island is rich with wild flowers in summer; you might also see ospreys and otters hunting in the river.
What to see and do
- Enjoy the short boat trip across the River Dee to reach the island fortress
- Stand in awe of the huge tower house – it’s the same height as a modern 10-storey block of flats
- Get up close to the artillery fortification that kept James II’s forces at bay – an innovative defence years ahead of its time
- Take our fun fact-finding quiz while exploring the castle.
