Caerlaverock Castle came under a prolonged and bitter siege in 1640 from a Covenanter army. This weekend – Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th July – visitors are invited to go back in time to meet the covenanters, and hear how they fought to the siege’s bitter end.
The ruined state of Caerlaverock Castle today is a direct result of the events of 1640. Loyal to Charles I, Lord Maxwell held out against the Covenanters for 13 weeks before surrendering. During the siege, the south curtain wall was demolished so the castle could never again be used as a place of defence.
Costumed performers will set up camp at the castle and re-enact some of the events of the siege this weekend. Visitors will be able to witness musket displays and pike drills, as well as meeting the surgeon in the living history camp to hear about the hardships of soldierly life.
Historic Environment Scotland's Assistant Events Manager, Fran Caine, said: “There’s something quite special about seeing costumed re-enactors perform in the surroundings of an ancient building like Caerlaverock Castle, and our hope is that Fight to the End will bring a fascinating period in the castle’s history to life for visitors. With weaponry, drill displays and presentations, it will be a fun – and informative – day out for the whole family.”
Dumfries, Dumfries and Galloway
Caerlaverock Castle, in the charming town of Dumfries, is the epitome of the medieval stronghold, with its surrounding moat, twin towered gatehouse and tower...
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