Threave Castle, Scotland

Threave Castle was the home of 'Black' Douglas Earls of Douglas from the late 14th century until their fall in 1455.

It is likely that Fergus of Galloway built the first castle on the island after 1000, but it was burned in the early 14th century by Edward Bruce.

Threave Castle was built by Archibald Douglas, "the Grim", later the third Earl of Douglas, in 1369. Threave Castle became Archibald's stronghold and he died there in 1400.

William Douglas, 8th Earl of Douglas carried out some improvements to the Castle's fortifications in 1447, demolishing the earlier outbuildings and constructing a defensive wall along the river bank closest to the keep. In 1452 Patrick Maclellan of Bombie was imprisoned and murdered by the 8th Earl, against the order of James II. The deed was reciprocated the same year, when James II murdered William Douglas at Stirling Castle.

William's brother James Douglas, now 9th Earl, continued the improvements to Threave, building a curtain wall with three corner towers and a gatehouse. After his brother's murder, he intrigued with the English court, receiving money from Henry VI's government for the works. The 9th Earl's uprising was defeated at the Battle of Arkinholm and Threave Castle was subject to a 2 month siege in 1455. The castle survived the attack and only succumbed when the garrison were bribed and promised safe conduct.

The castle was annexed by the Crown, and a succession of keepers appointed, although it was not used again as a residence.

During the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century, Threave was used for a brief period to house French prisoners of war. In 1913 the owner, Edward Gordon, passed the castle into State care.

Opening Times

1 April - 30 September
Daily, 9.30 am to last outward sailing at 4.30 pm

1 - 31 October
Daily, 9.30 am to last outward sailing at 3.30 pm

Visit website for more information

Ticket Prices

Adult £4.50,
Child £2.70,
Concession £3.60
Charge includes ferry trip.

Visit website for more information

Disabled Facilities

A path and steep steps lead to a small boat making it unsuitable for visitors using a wheelchair. After a short boat trip, more mobile visitors can visit the ticket office and curtain wall. The castle has steep steps inside and out.

Parking available about half a mile from the boat dock. Please allow 15 minutes from the carpark to walk to the boat dock. The last boat departs at 16.30.

Toilets available at the car park are adapted.

Visit website for more information

More Information

Telephone: 07711 223 101

Visit website for more information