Lochmaben: Castle, Castle Loch and Walks

Lochmaben offers two distinct focal points for a stay: the history of Lochmaben Castle and the natural surroundings and recreational opportunities at Castle Loch. There are also walks around Castle Loch and Kirk Loch, as well as the Mercat Cross. Depending on whether you want to focus on historic buildings, a walk or activities on the water, you can choose different priorities.

Castle and local history

At Castle Loch in Lochmaben, Lochmaben Castle comprises the remains of a 13th-century peel fortification and a 14th-century stone castle. The dates distinguish two building phases: the earlier peel fortification and the later stone castle. Lochmaben Peel and Castle is nationally regarded as the best-preserved and earliest example of the peels built in Scotland by Edward I.

Lochmaben Castle is currently closed. During the ongoing conservation work, it is possible to view the site from behind the protective fence. Before travelling, check whether this viewing opportunity is still available. The Lochmaben Heritage Centre is on the ground floor of Lochmaben Town Hall. If you plan to visit, check in advance when visits are possible.

Castle Loch: nature, activities and walks

Castle Loch is a Local Nature Reserve and is also designated a Site of Scientific Interest, Ramsar Site and Special Protected Area. Sailing, kayaking, fishing and birdwatching take place on the loch. If you plan any of these activities, observe local conditions; local rules may apply.

A walk runs around most of Castle Loch, passing Lochmaben Castle and a bird hide before returning to Lochmaben along a quiet road. Castle Loch Walk 1 is 5.4 kilometres long and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The route follows a raised wooden boardwalk through Castle Wood; a path branches off it to a bird hide. Path conditions, infrastructure and access may change. Before setting off, check the conditions on the specific route you plan to take.

Walks at Kirk Loch

The Kirk Loch path runs along the shore of Kirk Loch. One section of the Kirk Loch path lies within Castle Loch Local Nature Reserve and is also part of the Sculpture Trail. When planning, it helps to distinguish between the lochs: this description of the Kirk Loch path refers to the shore of Kirk Loch; the other route description follows most of the way around Castle Loch. This makes it possible to distinguish the walks by their respective locations without confusing their different destinations.

Further historical details

The Mercat Cross in Lochmaben has sundials on all four sides, with a sphere crowning the cross. Its design is therefore defined by two specific features: the four sundials and the spherical finial.

Lochmaben became royal property. James IV is credited with extensive work to rebuild the great hall. Both details add a change of ownership and a reference to building work to the town’s history, while the castle itself is characterised by its two building phases and national significance.

Discover more destinations: Kirkconnel, Auldgirth, Corrie, Port William, Collin, Canonbie, Castle Douglas, Langholm

For the overview of the wider area: Dumfries And Galloway.