Caerlaverock Castle: Triangular Might (History & Travel Tips)

-

Built in the 13th century on the southernmost side of Scotland, Caerlaverock Castle is a masterpiece in its own right. Constructed as a stronghold for its inhabitants, this castle boasts an amazing defense system – so much so that even its name translates to “a defensible fort” in English. It’s architectured in a unique triangular shape and has become quite one of the popular tourist destinations in Scotland. Let’s take a look at everything that you need to know about it:

Caerlaverock Castle has been used as the backdrop of the rom-com, The Decoy Bride.

Caerlaverock Castle's entrance surrounded by green grasses.
Caerlaverock Castle’s entrance surrounded by green grasses. Caerlaverock Castle flickr photo by itmpa shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

Frequently Asked Questions

FOR HISTORY | BEAUTIFUL IMAGES | INTERESTING FACTS | TRAVEL TIPS

Early History

Origins & Original Construction (1220-1270)

Caerlaverock Castle stands proud on the land that was endowed upon Sir John Maxwell on his promotion by Alexander ll. The original construction of the castle included a square-shaped building that was enclosed by a timber boundary wall. 

The land ownership changed when Sir Aymer Maxwell became the successor, but he did not reside there, instead choosing to construct a brand new fortress (around 200 meters or 218 yards away) atop an outcropping on the same land. This construction exists to this day and is known as the modern-day Caerlaverock Castle. It was completed around 1270. 

The interior view of Caerlaverock Castle.
The interior view of Caerlaverock Castle. Caerlaverock Castle flickr photo by itmpa shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

Caerlaverock Castle in the Wars of Independence

Caerlaverock Castle is situated at a very strategic location on the precipice between Scotland and England, which has led to it being involved in a number of sieges and wars. First, there was the political scuffle in 1286, which occurred because Alexander lll passed away without an heir. This further led to the War of Scottish Independence, where Caerlaverock Castle was at the very center. In fact, it was from the grounds of this very castle that the Maxwells led an attacking force. 

Some interior parts of the Caerlaverock Castle.
Some interior parts of the Caerlaverock Castle. Caerlaverock Castle flickr photo by itmpa shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

However, the very next year, in July of 1298, Edward I besieged the fortress ruthlessly and took over. This was a historically significant siege as it was Edward l’s first step to taking over Scotland after capturing Wales. His cavalry included 87 knights and 3000 men, along with multiple siege engines. His invasion was successful as the castle succumbed within two days.

An architectural plan of the Caerlaverock Castle's First floor
An architectural plan of the Caerlaverock Castle. David MacGibbon and Thomas Ross, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Partial Dismantling & Subsequent Repairs

Caerlaverock Castle was restored to the Maxwells again. But it was soon after, in the Battle at Bannockburn, that the castle underwent another attempted siege. The siege didn’t take, but it did inspire Eustace to incur a slight dismantling in order to stop the English from attempting to take Caerlaverock Castle. 

It wasn’t until 1328 that Caerlaverock Castle was repaired again, but it was immediately ensconced in another coup by Edward Balliol. In 1355, the fortress was recaptured by Roger Kirkpatrick and given back to the Maxwells again. This is when some of the major architectural additions and repairs took place. They ended around 1450.

The architectural details of the Caerlaverock Castle.
The architectural details of the Caerlaverock Castle. Caerlaverock Castle flickr photo by itmpa shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

Caerlaverock Castle’s multiple sieges continued in 1570 when the Maxwells remained dogmatically Catholic during the Scottish Reformation. After the subsequent repairs in 1593, another skirmish arose that led to the castle being attacked by the Johnstones of Annandale. It was a multigenerational feud that ended with the execution of John Maxwell in 1612.

The Second Major Siege (1640)

Aside from the initial attack by Edward l, the second biggest siege listed under the history of Caerlaverock Castle came in 1640 when the Maxwells had decided to side with Charles l. The attack lasted for a whopping 13 weeks, and to ensure that it could never be used for defense again, Caerlaverock was stripped of its curtain walls to render its defenses moot.

A portrait of Charles I of Scotland
A portrait of Charles I of Scotland

Under the Earls of Nithsdale

Maxwell the Tenth was married to Elizebeth Beaumont, soon after he was granted the title of Earl of Nithsdale by King James. He was also placed in charge of the Privy Council of Scotland, which is when he added to the architecture of Caerlaverock Castle – to make it grander as befitted his new title. Amidst some of the most popular of these additions were the ranges that he built on the east and south sides of the existing castle structure. They were completed in 1634, were highly elaborate, and were dubbed as the “Nithsdale Lodging.”

An old sketch of the Caerlaverock Castle and its surroundings
An old sketch of the Caerlaverock Castle and its surroundings

The End of an Era

Caerlaverock Castle stopped being used as a residence when the Maxwells finally moved to Terregles Castle. After that, they moved to the Traquair House, the estate was finally passed down to the Herries family through marriage. Thereafter, the ownership was given to the Dukes of Norfolk – also by marriage.

Current Times

Caerlaverock Castle has always been a popular tourist destination and it has been attracting people with its history and cultural significance ever since the latter half of the 18th century. This was one of the main reasons why the Duke of Norfolk let it go to the care of the State in 1946. Although the State cares for and maintains the castle for tourists, it’s actually owned by Lady Mary Mumford, who inherited it from her father, the 16th Duke of Norfolk.

The current condition of Caerlaverock Castle.
The current condition of Caerlaverock Castle.

Interesting Caerlaverock Castle Facts

  • Caerlaverock Castle has been used as the backdrop of the rom-com, The Decoy Bride.
  • This castle has an incredibly unique triangular footprint that is surrounded by a deep moat.
  • Since the location of this castle is on the border between two countries that have always had a turbulent relationship – Scotland and England – it has been a part of many sieges over the course of the centuries.
  • Caerlaverock was once the site of Iron Age hill forts.
  • The Mudroch Tower was given its name because it was the place where the Duke of Albany was incarcerated. It stands tall even today.
  • The Nithsdale Lodging area was built in the image of classic renaissance architectural features, the most notable of which are the stunning carvings around the windows.
  • The Castle is situated on 5200 acres of land, home to one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the world. It can be used for a number of activities that include cycling, bird watching, etc.
  • The foundations of the previous castle are visible along the southern nature trail if you go through the woods.

Visiting Caerlaverock Castle – Tips and Tricks

The historical significance of Caerlaverock Castle makes it highly relevant in historical themes and its unique architecture makes it one of the most fun places to visit. If you too are planning a trip, then here’s some information to help you out:

Caerlaverock's Castle view from across the ruins
Caerlaverock’s Castle view from across the ruins. Caerlaverock Castle flickr photo by itmpa shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

How to get to Caerlaverock Castle?

There are two ways to get to Caerlaverock Castle from Edinburgh. One of them is by train and the other by taxi. Both may take around an hour and a half and cost you somewhere between Є78-Є107 ($92-$126 USD). If you want to drive there from Edinburgh, it will take you approximately an hour and forty-five minutes at a cost of Є15-Є23 ($18-$27 USD).

Ticket Prices, Visiting Hours & Travel Tips

Information was checked & updated on October 15, 2023.

The castle visiting rules have been affected by the pandemic and most of the interior is closed to visitors for now. As for the tickets, it costs Є8 ($9 USD) per adult, Є6 ($7 USD) for senior citizens and unemployed people, and Є5 ($6 USD) for children. You can even get a family group ticket that covers an adult plus two kids for Є15 ($18 USD).

A look at the crumbling architecture of the castle and its green surroundings.
A look at the crumbling architecture of the castle and its green surroundings. Caerlaverock Castle flickr photo by itmpa shared under a Creative Commons (BY-SA) license

How Long Will It Take to Tour Around?

While it usually takes an hour to tour the castle, you can always stay longer to explore the grounds.

Some words of advice and tips: 

  • Don’t forget to enjoy some home-baked products and the yummiest coffee at Caerlaverock Castle’s public tea room – though it’s only open consistently in summers and during weekends in winters.
  • If you’re planning a nature walk, do remember to wear comfortable shoes.
  • If your kids love adventure, then you should definitely take them to the model and demonstration of the old sieges. They’ll love it there, as they’re even allowed to play around with toy ransacking tools.

Quick Video Tour of The Main Caerlaverock Castle Areas

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE EPIC HISTORY
Zunaira Ghazal
Zunaira Ghazal
Zunaira is an architect and designer on paper, but a writer at heart. She’s got a Bachelors in Architecture and a passion for traveling, both of which combine in her writings about timeworn castles and fortresses that have withstood the tests of time and stand proud to this day.

Follow Us

26,021FansLike
4,329FollowersFollow
31FollowersFollow