Caerlaverock Castle has a unique triangular layout, with three curtain walls, two towers and a large gatehouse. The castle was built some time between 1280 and 1300, and there is some debate as to whether it was built by the Scots or the English. King Edward I of England besieged the castle in 1300 forcing it to surrender. The castle remained in English hands for twelve years before the constable in charge changed sides and declared for Robert Bruce. The castle was demolished on the orders of Robert Bruce.

Caerlaverock was rebuilt in the 15th century to the original plan, and in the 1630's the Earl of Nithsdale added a three-storeyed residential block in Classical Renaissance style. Just six years later the castle surrendered to an army of Covenantors, who tore parts of it down, leaving the castle to fall into ruin.