Kenmure Castle, Medieval castle in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
Kenmure Castle is a castle ruin in Dumfries and Galloway built on a modified natural mound, with surviving walls that formed a three-story structure including an attic floor and central courtyard. The remains show how rooms were arranged and how the building was defended.
The Gordon family took control of the site in 1297 and made it their residence for centuries. In the 1500s, the building suffered major damage because those living there sided with Mary, Queen of Scots during turbulent times.
The castle's name likely connects to a local family or place from the region. Visitors today can see how the structure was built on raised ground to demonstrate power and control over the surrounding land.
The site can be explored on foot, with the surviving walls marking the different areas of the original building. Visit when weather is dry, as the ground on and around the mound can become muddy and slippery.
A large slate sundial from 1623 that once sat in the castle gardens was moved to Dumfries Museum. This crafted object reveals how the wealthy family decorated their outdoor spaces and which items survived through the centuries.
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