Castle Haven, near Kirkandrews is a remarkable Iron Age site—one of the best-preserved examples of a “galleried dun” in southern Scotland. Perched above a rocky coast it dates back around 2,000 years and is notable for its “D-shaped layout”, thick drystone walls, and internal galleries built into the structure.
Castle Haven was excavated and partially reconstructed in 1905 by James Brown of Knockbrex Estate. He used local drystone dykers to rebuild the fort based on the original footprint, which had walls still standing up to 5 feet high. The restoration was unusually faithful for its time and gives a rare glimpse into Iron Age architecture.Artefacts found during the dig included bronze finger rings, a blue and white glass bead, and even fragments of chain mail and a medieval brooch,
suggesting the site may have been reused or revered in later centuries. There’s even a local tradition—though unproven—that links the site to the Balliol family, adding a layer of medieval mystique
suggesting the site may have been reused or revered in later centuries. There’s even a local tradition—though unproven—that links the site to the Balliol family, adding a layer of medieval mystiqueJim Bell 27/06/2025
This article appeared on the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright Old Postcards and Local Snippets Facebook page.