The village consists of about 150 people and has a church, a community run pub, and a hosted post office three times a week.

The name Dunscore is of Cumbric origin, formed of the elements dīn 'fort' and *ïsgor 'fortification, rampart'.

The church was rebuilt into a heritage centre in 2017, and features information on the Dunscore-born Jane Haining.

[8] Lag (or Lagg) Tower is a ruinous fortification lying on high ground north-east of Dunscore, north of the Laggan Burn.

The structure dates from the 15th or 16th century and was originally four storeys high with a walled courtyard at its base.