The Gurni'n Dug
A Historic Lanark Landmark Above Our Cafe
One of Lanark's Most Unusual Landmarks
Perched high on the roof of the building on Castlegate — opposite the side of the cafe — is one of Lanark's most unusual landmarks — the Gurni'n Dug, a statue of a dog named Camp.
A Tale of Love, Loss, and Revenge
Early 1800s: A Thriving Textile Town
The story dates back to the early 1800s, when Lanark was a thriving textile town. Camp belonged to Deacon John MacDonald, a successful dyer who was building a new townhouse on Castlegate. His neighbour, Miss Mary Inglis, strongly opposed the development, although the council eventually ruled in MacDonald's favour.
The Incident
During the construction, MacDonald was often seen walking with his dog, and on one occasion Camp reportedly knocked Miss Inglis over. Not long after MacDonald moved into his new home, he returned one day to find that Camp had been poisoned, with suspicion falling on his neighbour.
A Lasting Memorial
Heartbroken and seeking a form of revenge, MacDonald commissioned a local stonemason to create a statue of his beloved dog. He placed it high on the front of his house — deliberately positioned so that it faced directly towards Miss Inglis's window as a lasting reminder.
It is said she later had her window bricked up to avoid the dog's stare.
Still Standing Today
Although the neighbouring house is long gone, the Gurni'n Dug still remains today, looking down over Castlegate and preserving one of Lanark's most memorable and quirky stories.
A Tale and A Trunk
Lanark has no shortage of remarkable stories. Read another piece of local history in our specially written tale — available to download below.
A Tale and A Trunk
A Historical Story of Lanark
Lanark is a town steeped in history — from William Wallace to the Gurni'n Dug, its streets hold stories that span centuries. A Tale and A Trunk is another piece of that rich local heritage, written to bring a slice of Lanark's past to life.
Download the full story as a PDF and enjoy a little piece of Lanark history — perfect reading alongside a cup of tea at the cafe.
Download: A Tale and A Trunk (PDF)Visit Teatime Cafe
Come and enjoy quality food and excellent coffee near this historic landmark. Look up as you pass — you'll see the Gurni'n Dug watching over Castlegate from the roof of the building opposite, just as he has for over 200 years.