Repair work starts on unique three-sided castle

Essential conservation work has started on a unique three-sided castle in the south of Scotland.

It follows an inspection of the impact of climate change on Caerlaverock Castle near Dumfries, which dates from the 13th Century.

The work will see scaffolding put up to allow for repairs to be carried out to the building's staircase and north-west tower.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) said access to the interior of the castle would be restricted but the grounds, playparks and visitor centre could be visited free of charge.

Caerlaverock Castle has a triangular shape which is unique among British castles.

It was besieged and captured on a number of occasions but the best-known sieges were in 1300 and 1640.

The first involved Edward I, with the small garrison surrendering to the English king's army within two days.

The second - the castle's last - went on for 13 weeks before the forces finally surrendered.

Afterwards it was stripped of fixtures and fittings and its south curtain wall demolished so it could never again be used as a place of defence.

Rosie Thorp, district visitor and community manager at HES, said: "Originally built in the 1270s, Caerlaverock Castle is a hugely important site in Dumfries and Galloway, and these measures are necessary to facilitate vital conservation works.

"We understand that visitors will be eager to get back inside the castle, however, this work is part of the important maintenance of the historic site.

"While we aim to reopen the interior of the castle in spring, visitors can continue to enjoy the breathtaking views of Caerlaverock Castle, with its unique triangular shape, and explore the visitor centre where they can find out more about this outstanding, historic location."