Morton Castle
Majestically situated overlooking Morton Loch and the Lowther Hills behind, the now-ruined Morton Castle was a fine example of a late 13th-century fortified hall house.
As part of the Treaty of Berwick with England which led to the release of King David II in 1357 - he had been captured during the Battle of Neville's Cross by the English forces of King Edward III - Morton along with many castles in south west Scotland had to be destroyed. However, it was rebuilt in the early 15th century by the Earls of March and later became the stronghold of the Douglases until 1715.
The castle had 8-10 feet thick walls enclosing a two-storey hall, two circular towers and large gatehouse with heavy doors and a portcullis. This was an impressive structure, though only one side of it still survives.
Today, the site is under the care of Historic Scotland and can be visited at any time during daylight hours.
Contact
Mr
Graeme
Bowie
Nr Thornhill
Dumfries & Galloway
DG3 5EH
Scotland
Tel: +44 (131) 6688800
Fax: +44 (131) 6688888
E-Mail: hs.explorer@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
