Caerlaverock Castle

Most of the castle is open for you to explore.

While conservation works are ongoing, some parts of the castle won't be accessible during your visit, including the West Range and two of the castle's towers.

How we look after our sites

The castle is approximately 8 miles south of Dumfries and 14 miles west of Annan.

View Caerlaverock Castle on a Google map

Journey Planners

Search for National Cycle Network routes with the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.

Plan your journey by public transport using Traveline Scotland.

Carers' tickets

Visitors with disabilities are charged standard admission rates (adult/concession/child). Proof of disability is not required. Up to two accompanying carers receive free entry per transaction.

Assistance dogs

Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas.

Parking

Parking is available at two plastic reinforced grass areas. The car park is on a slight incline. Visitors can be dropped off at the visitor centre.

Approach to the site

The main car park is about 100m away from the visitor centre on a tarmac surface at an upward incline. The overflow car park is 25m from visitor centre on a level tarmac area. In front of the visitor centre there is a gravel track which can be muddy in wet weather and has pot-holes.

Ear Defenders

A limited number of adult and children’s ear defenders are available at this site. Please ask a member of staff if you want to borrow them.

What to expect at the site

The visitor centre and shop is step free. 

The castle is about 200m up a slope from the visitor centre, over tarmac, paved and grass surfaces. Nearing the castle after the moat there is a short but steep (1:6) downwards grass section.

The main level route inside the castle is paved, and this route allows access around the courtyard to the south range. There are steps down into some rooms, but most of these can also be viewed from the path. The majority of these rooms have gravel surfaces. Historic stone spiral stairs with handrails lead to the upper levels of the east range.

The path to the old castle is approximately 350m from the visitor centre, and is tarmac and gravel. There are steps over the moat at the old castle.

There are picnic benches and seats for visitors.

Toilets

There is an adapted toilet next to the visitor centre.

• Accessible by public transport
• Accessible toilets
• Bicycle rack
• Car parking
• Guided or audio tours available
• Picnic area
• Shop
• Toilets
• Visitor centre
• Water bottle refill
• Dogs welcome in outdoor areas
• Coach parking
• Available to hire for weddings and events
• Baby changing facilities