Etymology
The first element of the name is probably the extinct Cumbric cair 'fortification', though Gaelic cathair has been suggested. The second element is generally taken as Cumbric lanerx, meaning 'clearing' (cf. Welsh llanerch). Another suggestion is that the name is Cumbric cair + Old English lang 'long' and hrycg 'ridge'.
Border reiver
It is best known for being the site where John Armstrong of Gilnockie, notorious member of Clan Armstrong and brother of Thomas, Laird of Mangerton was captured and hanged by King James V for being a reiver. The king's household book records that James V was at Caerlanrig on Tuesday 5 July 1530.
