Located on the outskirts of Castle Douglas, Threave Castle is located on an island on the River Dee, and looks like a castle tower from a storybook. Follow the path across farmland and down to the edge of the river and ring a bell to call over the boat. Board the boat and cross to this formidable five-storey ruined fortress, which was built in 1369 to house and protect the Lord of Galloway who was known ominously as Archibald the Grim. Nearby you can also visit Threave Garden and Estate to explore the informal rose garden, walled garden and estate trails.