Top 4 Castles around Templand

Lochmaben Castle is a ruined 14th-century castle located on the shore of Castle Loch in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. Access to the castle's ruins, is currently restricted for safety reasons due to unstable masonry.

Great place for walking and paddling on the water

Nice part of run through the woods (clockwise direction) and after is an elevated wooden path (with anti slip) pads on it. The whole run is ferly flat and if not after rain the path should be not muddy. After castle ruins there is little bit of tarmac road and footpath on right takes you back to the car park. On that stretch there is few nicely sculptured trees and two piers to observe the beautiful Loch when you're not on the run 😉

Few years back you could visit the ruins. It looks like remains are unstable and the area is fenced off to prevent access.

The former fuedal seat of the Lord of Annandale and Dumfries and Galloway, Lochmaben Castle's ruins are an intruiging part of Scotland's rich history. The castle was originally constructed during the 13th and 14th centuries during Edward I's reign and later rebuilt during James IV of Scotland's era. It is situated beautifully, on a small peninsula jutting into Castle Loch's southern end.

Of Lochmaben's trio of lochs, Castle Loch is by far the largest covering almost 250 acres (100 ha). The small peninsula that juts into its southern banks is adorned with the historic ruins of Lochmaben Castle. The western end hosts a wood sculpture trail, whilst a full circuit of the loch is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours.

Border country is always rich in legend and the land that the Annandale Way crosses is no different. Spedlin's Tower is a case in point. Once a stronghold of the Jardines of Applegarth, this 15th-century tower is said to be haunted by the spirit of James 'Dunty' Porteous, who was imprissoned in the dungeon and forgotten about. They say he gnawed and his own hands and feet before dying of starvation.

Lochmaben has plenty going for it. Sailing and fishing take place on the town's three beautiful lochs and the historic ruins of its castle are a great place to explore. Known as 'Bruce's town', King Robert the Bruce lived here during his time as Lord of Annandale. His fine statue looks out from in front of the town hall. It is an important stop off on the Annandale Way, where trekkers can resupply and enjoy pleasant lochside walks.