Threave Castle & Garden
Threave is one of Castle Douglas’s most iconic attractions — a medieval tower house perched dramatically on an island in the River Dee, surrounded by a beautiful National Trust for Scotland estate and walled garden.
Dogs are welcome throughout the wider estate grounds and on the riverside walk that leads to the castle ferry crossing. The walk from the car park to the river is lovely in all seasons, passing through farmland and along the Dee, and is well suited to dogs on leads. The walled garden is a highlight in spring and summer, with impressive planting displays and good paths throughout.
Dogs are not permitted inside the castle tower itself, but owners can take turns exploring while the other waits outside with the dog — the riverside setting makes this no hardship. NTS members enjoy free entry to the garden and estate. The estate also supports important wildlife including ospreys and wildfowl on the river, so leads are essential at all times.