Threave Castle

Castle Douglas, Dumfries, DG7 1TJ
07711 223 101

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.

An exterior shot of Threave Castle, standing by the River Dee.

An aerial view of Threave Castle, standing on an island in the River Dee.

Opening times

The island and grounds are open.

Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to the castle.

1 Apr to 30 Sept:
Daily except Sun & Mon, 10am to 4.30pm (last outward sailing 4pm).

1 to 31 Oct:
Daily except Sun & Mon, 10am to 4pm (last outward sailing 3.30pm).

Last ticket sales 45mins before closing. Allow 15 minutes to walk the 800m from the car park to the boat jetty.

1 Nov to 31 Mar:
Closed

Check for closures