Description:

Lochmaben, now little more than a crumbling heap of stones slowly being claimed by vines and plants, began in the late 12th century as an earthen motte with wide ditches and strong rampart defenses. Interestingly, it’s believed to be the birthplace of Robert the Bruce. The castle fell into English hands in 1299 before being handed back to the Scots. after Bannockburn in 1314. It was attacked and recovered again in 1396 by the English.

Mary, Queen of Scots and her first husband Darnley attended a banquet here in 1565. Still, in 1586 the castle was besieged by James VI and taken. The castle was abandoned.

Although in ruins today, Historic Environment Scotland have stabilised the remaining walls and hope to clear the outer courtyard of trees and scrub to uncover the network of ditches.