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Caerlaverock Castle

Caerlaverock Castle, Castle Road End, Dumfries
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With its wide moat, twin-towered gatehouse and lofty battlements, Caerlaverock is the epitome of the medieval stronghold. Learn all about its turbulent history as a castle caught up in border conflicts.

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With its fairytale appearance, Caerlaverock is the epitome of the medieval stronghold. Its triangular shape is unique among British castles. A walk around the moat-surrounded fortress gives a sense of its strength, economy of form and pleasing geometry. 

Then cross the moat via a drawbridge to discover the castle's courtyard. A climb up to the South range is rewarded with excellent views of the east range and the moat.

If you're in the mood for another, even older castle, you can find the foundations of the 'old castle' (ruins of a castle earlier than Caerlaverock Castle) at the end of a short nature trail. After exploring the castles, you can take a stroll in the picturesque grounds and the nearby Caerlaverock Nature Reserve.

There are currently some access restrictions in place while we carry out conservation work. 

round stone tower next to a water filled moat with trees visible on the shoreline behind
distant view of a red stone castle with round towers, with leafy branches filling the frame at the top of the image
close up of a castle wall with arched entry that has a carved panel and arrow slit above it. There is a wooden bridge over the moat in the foreground.
side wall of a ruined stone castle with a moat around the outside and tall green rushes in the foreground. Storm clouds gather behind it.
aerial view of an old stone castle from a distance. It is set in a wide green landscape, with a band of forest behind it and then shore and sea behind that.

Book as a wedding venue

With its triangular shape, moat and drawbridge, Caerlaverock is a fairytale castle that would make an exceptional setting for your special day.
Book a wedding or wedding photography
Ruined castle with twin turrets in a grassy field under a blue sky with clouds

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