Caerlaverock Castle

Caerlaverock Castle is an unusual triangular (rare in Europe and the only one in the UK), moated castle was built in the 13th century, replacing the old Caerlaverock Castle which was of a more usual rectangular shape. It was a stronghold of the Maxwell family between the 13th century and the 17th century  (when the castle was abandoned). It was besieged four times, once by the English under Edward the I and once under Edward II (both during the Wars of Scottish Independence), once by English Protestants (because Maxwell supported Mary Queen of Scots) and once in 1640 by the Covenanters a revolutionary Protestant group fighting for changes to the way the Church of Scotland was governed.

In the first siege by the English the Maxwells, mounted a vigorous defence of the castle, fighting off  the English several times. Finally, the garrison was forced to surrender, after which it was found that only sixty men had withstood the whole English army for a very long time. The Maxwells temporarily lost the castle. The second siege was not successful and the third resulted in a lot of damage to the castle.

In the 17th century, with the Maxwells holding the title of the Earls of Nithsdale, a national religious revolt turned against the staunchly Catholic family. In 1640 the Covenanter army besieged Caerlaverock for 13 weeks, eventually forcing its surrender. The Earl and Countess of Nithsdale and their page were allowed to leave, but 40  of the defenders (who were all family members)  were executed. The south wall and tower were demolished, and the castle was never repaired or reoccupied.

 The castle is currently in the ownership of Historic Scotland. Nothing remains  of the  furnishings and one side of the triangle has totally gone but it remains  a fascinating  visit. A highlight  during the nesting season is to stand in the chamber to the left of the  entrance and watch the behaviour of the House Martins which repeatedly fly in and out of the darkened chamber via the open (glassless) window.

Next to the ticket office is  a small display area which tells the story of the first siege of Caerlaverock. This includes an excellent  video presentation.