Garlies Castle is a ruined 14th century courtyard castle located in a strong position dominated by a 15th century tower with walls up to 8 feet thick. The ruins are very overgrown hidden away in woodlands. Exploring the tower you will find a vaulted basement, guard room, a turnpike stair and two cellars. There was also a pit prison now vanished beneath the undergrowth and fallen stone work. There is however a magnificent fireplace reset into the wine cellar.

Access to the castle ia via a wonderful woodland walk from a small car park at Knockman Woods that takes you out along a very rough track across wild open countryside that can be very boggy even in the summer months. The rough track will eventually lead to woodland which hides this wonderful ruin. The castle and lands were held by the Stewart's who held it from 1263 until the 20th century. You will need an ordinance survey map or app, along with decent weatherproof walking boots.

~ History ~

1488 ~ Sir Alexander Stewart of Garlies fights for King James III at the Battle of Sauchieburn against rebellious Scottish nobles. King James is thrown from his horse and killed.

1513 ~ Sir Alexander's son and heir, Alexander, a favourite of King James IV, is killed at the disastrous Battle of Flodden fighting the English, along with his King and most of the Scottish nobles. More than 10,000 Scottish solders are killed compared with 1,500 Englishmen.

1542 ~Alexander's son and heir, another Alexander, is captured at the Battle of Solway Moss. King James V remains at Lochmaben Castle before withdrawing to Falkland Palace following the Scotts defeat at the hands of the English.

1623 ~ Sir Alexander Stewart is made Earl of Galloway. As Earl and Lord of Garlies, Alexander resides at Castle Douglas. Garlies castle eventually falls into ruin.