Lochmaben Castle

The ruins of Lochmaben Castle stand on the southern shores of Castle Loch near Lockerbie in Scotland.

Anticipating a pleasant walk around Castle Loch, we were excited to come across this beautiful ruinous castle.

The castle was built by Edward I in 1298, after being captured from Robert de Brus, 6th Lord of Annandale.

The castle replaced the Bruce family's Motte & Bailey structure, although the original site is not certain.

The castle may feel romantic, however, its history is rather more turbulent.

Due to its location, it was perfect for Edward I and his men to position themselves in Scottish territory. Hence the castle became the scene of several attacks and sieges.

Eventually, in 1385, Archibald Douglas "The Grim", Lord of Galloway succeeded in taking back possession of the castle for the Scots.

In 1445, King James IV of Scotland took on major renovations and gave the castle a spruce up. James V took advantage of the refurb and spent much time here.

Up until the 1700s it was the scene of many wars between the English and Scots, at which time it became abandoned.

Unfortunately, the beautiful red sandstones were pinched for local buildings and the castle was left to decay. Due to the risk of falling debris, the castle itself is now fenced off.

Far from the turbulent begone years, the castle provided a stunning backdrop to social events.

The castle is now owned and cared for by Historic Environment Scotland.