Threave Castle
Threave Castle Details
Threave Castle, a C14 tower and courtyard of the Douglases on an island altered C15 with early artillery defences ruined C19.
- Closest To: Castle Douglas
- Access: Chargeable Public Access
- Grid Reference: NX739623
Threave Castle is a ruined massive rectangular tower-keep and courtyard set upon an island in the middle of the River Cree in Galloway, a short distance from Castle Douglas. Access is only by boat, which is provided as part of the management of Historic Environment Scotland, although the castle is owned by the National Trust Scotland. To reach the boat is a reasonable walk, and there is a dedicated car park.
The tower was built in the late 14th century by Archibald Douglas, 3rd Earl of Douglas on a site that had been used previously. The earl had reconquered Galloway from the English, and Threave was his power base. It remained the principal seat of the earls of Douglas in the south-west until 1455, when their rebellion came to an end and Threave was bombarded by King James’ army. The tower is an impressive example of the type, and survived as a royal fortress until further bombardment during the mid 17th century, and subsequent slighting.
Official Historic Scotland page for castle
Official National Trust for Scotland page for garden and estate