Corra Castle

Guardian of the Scottish Borders & Echoes of Forgotten Clans

 

Perched on a rugged hillside overlooking the serene valleys of the Scottish Borders, Corra Castle is a haunting ruin steeped in centuries of border warfare, clan loyalty, and political strife. Built in the 14th century, this once-proud stronghold witnessed the ebb and flow of power between Scotland and England. Let’s unravel its hidden tales!

📍 Location

Nestled near Dumfries and Galloway, Corra Castle lies close to the ancient Anglo-Scottish border. Its strategic position guarded vital trade routes and served as a sentinel during the tumultuous era of the Border Reivers.

🏰 The Founding of Corra Castle

Constructed around 1350 by the Maxwell clan, Corra Castle began as a simple tower house. The Maxwells, a formidable Border clan, expanded it into a fortified bastion to counter English incursions and rival Scottish families like the Johnstones and Armstrongs. Its thick stone walls and arrow-slit windows embodied the brutal pragmatism of borderland life.

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

The Maxwells (14th–16th century): Founded the castle as a bulwark against English raids. Sir Herbert Maxwell famously repelled a siege by English forces in 1388 during the Hundred Years’ War spillover.

The Johnstones (16th–17th century): Seized after a bloody feud, the Johnstones used Corra as a base for Reiver raids. Their clashes with the Grahams and Scotts fueled the region’s lawlessness.

Abandonment (18th century): After the 1707 Union, border tensions eased, and the castle fell into decay.

⚔️ Corra’s Role in Scottish & English History

Border Reiver Era: Corra was a flashpoint in the violent "Debatable Lands," where clans switched allegiances between crowns. The Maxwells’ loyalty to Scotland clashed with English-backed rivals.

Wars of Independence: Though not a major battlefield, the castle provisioned troops and sheltered nobles fleeing English campaigns.

Jacobite Risings: The Johnstones’ ambivalent stance during the 1715 rebellion mirrored Border clans’ divided loyalties.

🌿 Architecture & Legacy

Surviving Features: The crumbling tower and remnants of a defensive barmkin (courtyard wall) hint at its martial past.

Preservation: Now a scheduled monument, the ruins are managed by Historic Environment Scotland, though access remains rugged and unspoiled.

📸 Visit Corra Castle

For intrepid explorers, Corra offers solitude and sweeping Border views. Pack sturdy boots and a sense of adventure to tread where Reivers once roamed!

 

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Plan Your Visit:

📍 Near Dumfries, Scottish Borders

📅 Accessible year-round (caution: uneven terrain)

ℹ️ More info: Historic Environment Scotland

 

Where the wind carries whispers of loyalty, betrayal, and the untamed Border spirit.

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/2016/05/behind-the-red-door-inside-corra-castle/

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 Drumin Castle

Highland Stronghold of Power & Rebellion

Perched above the serene River Livet near Glenlivet in Moray, Drumin Castle is a rugged ruin whispering tales of medieval ambition, clan warfare, and political intrigue. Built in the late 14th century, this once-mighty fortress played a role in Scotland’s turbulent struggles for power. Let’s step into its storied past!

📍 Location

Nestled in the Cairngorms National Park near the whisky-rich glens of Speyside, Drumin Castle overlooks the River Livet. Its strategic position guarded vital routes through the Highlands, making it a prized possession for feudal lords and clans alike.

🏰 The Founding of Drumin Castle

Constructed around 1370–1380, Drumin Castle was built by Alexander Stewart, Earl of Buchan—infamously known as the “Wolf of Badenoch”. A son of King Robert II of Scotland, the Wolf was a ruthless figure who terrorized the north, even burning Elgin Cathedral in 1390. His castle symbolized both his authority and his defiance of royal and ecclesiastical power.

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

Alexander Stewart, Earl of Buchan (1370s–1405): The castle’s builder, whose tyrannical rule destabilized the region. His feuds with local clergy and nobles highlighted Scotland’s fractured medieval governance.

The Gordons (15th–17th centuries): After the Wolf’s death, Drumin passed to the Gordon clan, a powerhouse in northeastern Scotland. They expanded the castle and wielded influence through alliances and military might.

Abandonment (17th century): By the 1600s, the castle fell into disuse as the Gordons shifted to grander estates like Huntly Castle.

 

⚔️ Drumin’s Role in Scottish & British History

Medieval Power Struggles: The Wolf’s reign exemplified the chaos of 14th-century Scotland, where royal sons carved out personal fiefdoms, often clashing with Crown and Church.

Clan Conflicts: As a Gordon stronghold, Drumin anchored their dominance in Moray during feuds with clans like the Chattan Confederation and Forbes.

Jacobite Connections: Though not a battlefield, the Gordons’ staunch Jacobite loyalties during the 1715 and 1745 risings tied Drumin’s legacy to broader Highland resistance against Hanoverian rule.

🌿 Architecture & Legacy

Medieval Fortress: The surviving rectangular tower and remnants of a curtain wall reflect its 14th-century defensive design. The vaulted basement and fireplaces hint at its former grandeur.

Preservation: Now a scheduled monument under Historic Environment Scotland, the ruins are freely accessible, offering sweeping views of Speyside’s landscapes.

📸 Visit Drumin Castle

Walk among the echoes of the Wolf’s defiance and Gordon ambition! The site’s wild setting and historical aura make it a perfect stop for history lovers and hikers exploring the Cairngorms.

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Plan Your Visit:

📍 Near Glenlivet, Moray (Cairngorms National Park)

📅 Open year-round • Free access

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/ballindalloch/drumincastle/index.html

 

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🏰 Castle Roy

The Ancient Sentinel of the Scottish Highlands 🌄

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Cairngorms National Park near Nethy Bridge, Castle Roy stands as a weathered yet proud relic of Scotland’s medieval past. Built in the 12th century, this rugged stone fortress is one of Scotland’s oldest castles, offering a window into clan rivalries, political upheavals, and the fierce struggle for power that shaped the nation.

 

🏰 The Founding of Castle Roy

Constructed around 1200 AD by the Clan Comyn (or Cumming), Castle Roy served as a strategic stronghold in the heart of the Highlands. The Comyns, one of medieval Scotland’s most powerful families, designed the castle as a simple rectangular keep with thick stone walls—a testament to its defensive purpose in an era of clan warfare. Its location near ancient trade routes and fertile lands underscored its importance in controlling the region.

 

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

The Clan Comyn (12th–14th century): As original builders, the Comyns used Castle Roy to assert dominance over Moray and Badenoch. Their rivalry with Robert the Bruce culminated in tragedy when John Comyn, a claimant to the Scottish throne, was killed by Bruce in 1306, sparking the Wars of Independence.

The Clan Grant (14th century onward): After the Comyns’ downfall post-1314 (following Bruce’s victory at Bannockburn), the castle passed to the Grants of Freuchie, who maintained it as a regional bastion. By the 16th century, it fell into disuse as the Grants shifted to more modern residences.

⚔️ Castle Roy in Scottish & British History

Wars of Scottish Independence: The Comyns’ support for the Balliol faction (backed by England) placed Castle Roy at the heart of Scotland’s struggle against English domination. Bruce’s annihilation of the Comyns after 1306 marked a turning point in consolidating Scottish independence.

Clan Power Dynamics: The castle’s transition to the Grants reflected broader shifts in Highland loyalties, as clans realigned post-Bannockburn.

Jacobite Era: Though not directly involved in the 1715 or 1745 risings, the region’s Grant-linked loyalties echoed Scotland’s complex political tapestry.

🌿 Architecture & Legacy

Medieval Simplicity: Unlike later ornate castles, Castle Roy’s stark rectangular design highlights early Scottish fortification techniques. Its crumbling walls and empty window arches evoke a time when survival depended on stone and strategy.

Preservation: Now a scheduled monument cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, the ruins invite visitors to ponder its storied past.

📸 Visit Castle Roy

Wander through the echoes of medieval strife, surrounded by the Cairngorms’ wild beauty. Free to explore, the site offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into Scotland’s clan-driven history.

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Image: Castle Roy’s ancient stones standing resilient under a moody Highland sky. Credit: VisitScotland.

Where legends of loyalty and betrayal are etched into every stone. 🏴🔍

 

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Near Nethy Bridge, Cairngorms National Park

📅 Accessible year-round (weather permitting)

ℹ️ More info: Historic Environment Scotland

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://castleroy.org.uk/

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🏰 Pitsligo Castle

The Forgotten Stronghold of Scotland’s Northeast 🌿

Perched on a windswept Aberdeenshire cliff near Rosehearty, Pitsligo Castle stands as a haunting ruin with a dramatic past. Once a formidable seat of power, this 15th-century fortress witnessed clan rivalries, Jacobite rebellions, and the slow fade of Scotland’s feudal era. Let’s uncover its secrets!

🏰 The Founding of Pitsligo Castle

Built in 1424 by the Fraser family, Pitsligo Castle began as a simple tower house before expanding into a grand courtyard fortress. Its strategic coastal location guarded vital trade routes and served as a stronghold against rival clans—particularly the Gordons and Douglases.

By the 16th century, the castle passed to the Forbes family through marriage, transforming into a Renaissance-style residence under Sir William Forbes, 1st Baronet of Pitsligo (1585–1648).

 

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

The Frasers (1424–16th century): Established the castle as a defensive stronghold.

The Forbes Lords of Pitsligo (16th–18th century):

Sir William Forbes (1585–1648) – Royalist supporter during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms.

Alexander Forbes, 4th Lord Pitsligo (1678–1762) – A devout Jacobite who fought in the 1715 and 1745 Rebellions, leading to the castle’s ruin after Culloden.

Abandonment & Ruin (Post-1746): After the Jacobite defeat, the castle was sacked by government troops and left to decay.

⚔️ Pitsligo’s Role in Scottish & British History

Clan Wars & Feuds: A flashpoint in Fraser-Forbes-Gordon rivalries.

Jacobite Rebellions: The 4th Lord Pitsligo’s unwavering support for Bonnie Prince Charlie made the castle a target. After Culloden, he became a fugitive, hiding in caves while his estates were seized.

Decline of the Clan System: Pitsligo’s ruin symbolizes the brutal suppression of Highland culture post-1746.

 

🌿 Legacy & Modern Exploration

Today, Pitsligo’s crumbling towers and vaulted cellars whisper tales of lost causes. Though unrestored, its dramatic coastal setting makes it a hidden gem for history lovers.

📸 Visit Pitsligo Castle

Wander the ruins where Jacobite lords once plotted, and soak in the wild North Sea views—free to explore, but tread carefully!

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For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

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Kildrummy Castle

Sentinel of the North & Witness to Scotland’s Struggles 🌿

 

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Aberdeenshire, Kildrummy Castle stands as a haunting ruin, its crumbling walls echoing tales of betrayal, siege, and resilience. Built in the 13th century, this once-mighty stronghold played a pivotal role in Scotland’s fight for independence and beyond. Let’s journey through its storied past!

🏰 The Founding of Kildrummy Castle

Constructed around 1240 by the Earls of Mar, Kildrummy was a marvel of medieval engineering. Its strategic location near the River Don made it a linchpin of defense in northern Scotland. The castle’s design—featuring a massive curtain wall, imposing Snow Tower, and elegant chapel—set the standard for Scottish baronial architecture.

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

The Earls of Mar (13th–14th centuries): Founded by Gilbert de Moravia, the castle served as the seat of this powerful family, loyal supporters of the Scottish Crown.

Nigel Bruce (1306): Brother of Robert the Bruce, Nigel defended Kildrummy during a brutal siege by Edward I of England. The castle fell due to betrayal—legend claims a blacksmith set fire to the grain stores, forcing surrender. Nigel was executed, cementing Kildrummy’s role in Scotland’s bloody path to independence.

The Crown & Douglases (14th–15th centuries): Post-siege, the castle reverted to the Crown before passing to the Douglas family, key players in medieval Scottish politics.

The Erskines (15th–18th centuries): The Earls of Mar regained control, notably John Erskine, 6th Earl of Mar, who led the 1715 Jacobite Rising. After his defeat, the castle was forfeited to the Crown and abandoned.

⚔️ Kildrummy in Scottish & British History

Wars of Independence (1296–1357): Kildrummy’s defiance against Edward I symbolized Scotland’s resistance. Its fall in 1306 marked a dark chapter but galvanized support for Bruce’s cause.

Jacobite Rising (1715): The Earl of Mar’s rebellion transformed Kildrummy into a political flashpoint. Its forfeiture post-1715 underscored the Crown’s crackdown on Jacobitism.

Architectural Legacy: Innovations like its D-shaped towers influenced later castles, blending defense with grandeur.

🌿 Legacy & Modern Exploration

Though a ruin by the 18th century, Kildrummy’s drama endures:

Historic Environment Scotland now safeguards the site, offering visitors glimpses of its chapel arches, kitchen vaults, and the evocative Snow Tower remnants.

The castle’s gardens bloom with wildflowers, contrasting its martial past.

📸 Visit Kildrummy Castle

Walk among the ruins where kings plotted and clans clashed! Explore the scenic trails and ponder the castle’s dual legacy of beauty and defiance.

👉 Like, Share, and Tag someone who loves Scotland’s warrior spirit!

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kildrummy_Castle

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🏰 Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate

A Scottish Baronial Masterpiece with Tales of Intrigue & Legacy 🌿

Perched amid the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire, Castle Fraser stands as one of Scotland’s most magnificent Z-plan tower houses. Built over 40 years (1575–1615), this architectural gem has witnessed clan politics, Jacobite turmoil, and centuries of aristocratic life. Dive into the saga of its stone walls, lush gardens, and the dynasties that shaped its destiny!

🏰 The Founding of Castle Fraser

Commissioned by Michael Fraser, the 6th Laird of Fraser, the castle’s construction began in 1575 during the reign of James VI. Designed as a fortified yet elegant residence, its distinctive Z-plan layout—featuring a central tower flanked by two wings—showcased Renaissance innovation. The Frasers, a powerful clan with roots in the Scottish nobility, built it to assert their status amid the turbulence of the Reformation and feuds with rival clans like the Gordons.

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

The Fraser Family (1575–1790s): For over 200 years, the castle was the seat of the Frasers. Notable figures include Charles Fraser, 11th Laird, who modernized the estate in the 1700s, and Frederick Mackenzie-Fraser, who inherited via marriage in the 19th century.

The Mackenzie Family (1790s–1921): Through marriage, the castle passed to the Mackenzies, who added Victorian flourishes like ornate fireplaces and stained glass.

National Trust for Scotland (1976–present): Saved from decay, the castle now thrives as a heritage site under the Trust’s care.

 

⚔️ Castle Fraser in Scottish & British History

Jacobite Risings: Though the Frasers initially backed the Stuart cause, they later aligned with the Hanoverians. The castle avoided battle but housed government troops during the 1745 uprising.

Union & Enlightenment: Post-1707, the Frasers embraced British identity, contributing to agricultural reforms and political governance.

Victorian Reinvention: The Mackenzies’ renovations mirrored Scotland’s 19th-century romantic revival, blending medieval grandeur with modern comfort.

🌿 Gardens & Estate: A Living Tapestry

The 300-acre estate boasts:

Walled Gardens: Bursting with heritage roses and orchards, dating to the 18th century.

Ancient Woodlands: Trails weave through oak and pine, once hunting grounds for lairds.

Victorian Glasshouses: Added by the Mackenzies, symbolizing the era’s horticultural passion.

✨ Legacy & Modern Magic

Today, Castle Fraser enchants visitors with:

Guided Tours: Explore lavish interiors, including the Great Hall and spy-prone Round Tower.

Events: From Highland games to fairy-tale weddings, the estate buzzes with life.

Conservation: The National Trust preserves its legacy, from tapestries to heirloom gardens.

📸 Visit Castle Fraser

Step into a world where clan loyalty, political intrigue, and horticultural beauty collide! Open seasonally, the castle invites you to wander its halls, lose yourself in its gardens, and soak in centuries of history.

 

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For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/castle-fraser

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Midmar Castle

A Hidden Gem of Scottish History & Aristocratic Legacy 🌿

Nestled in the lush Aberdeenshire countryside near Echt, Midmar Castle is a captivating blend of medieval strength and Victorian romance. Built in 1565, this Z-plan tower house has sheltered lairds, weathered political storms, and witnessed Scotland’s transformation. Let’s unravel its tales of loyalty, survival, and reinvention!

The Founding of Midmar Castle

Midmar Castle was commissioned by William Burnett of Leys, a prominent figure in the powerful Burnett clan. Constructed during the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, its design—a central tower flanked by two diagonally placed wings—showcased cutting-edge 16th-century Scottish architecture. The Burnetts, staunch Protestants and loyal supporters of the monarchy, built Midmar as both a fortified home and a symbol of their influence during Scotland’s turbulent Reformation era.

 

Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

The Burnett Family (1565–1686): Founded by William Burnett, the castle remained with the Burnetts for over a century. They played key roles in local governance and supported the Crown during the Marian Civil Wars and Wars of the Three Kingdoms.

The Gordons (1686–1792): Sold to John Gordon of Hallhead amid financial strain, the castle shifted hands during a time of clan realignments post-1707 Union. The Gordons, a Catholic-leaning clan, contrasted with the Protestant Burnetts

The Keiths (1792–1900): Purchased by Alexander Keith of Ravelston, the castle saw agricultural modernization but fell into disrepair until...

The Pearson Family (1900–present): Acquired by Weetman Pearson, 1st Viscount Cowdray, the castle was restored with Victorian flair. Today, it remains a private residence under the Cowdray Estate, hosting lavish weddings and events.

Midmar Castle in Scottish & British History

Reformation & Royal Loyalty: The Burnetts’ support for Mary, Queen of Scots, and later the Protestant monarchy mirrored Scotland’s religious strife.

Jacobite Rebellions: Though not a battleground, the Burnetts’ Hanoverian sympathies (post-1688) aligned them with anti-Jacobite forces, reflecting broader Highland clan divides.

Union of 1707: The castle’s sale to the Gordons symbolized shifting aristocratic fortunes as Scotland navigated political union with England.

Victorian Reinvention: The 19th-century restoration by the Keiths and Pearsons echoed Scotland’s romanticized medieval revival, blending history with modernity.

 Legacy & Modern-Day Magic

Though privately owned, Midmar Castle’s legacy is preserved through meticulous care. Its stone walls—adorned with Victorian turrets and original Renaissance details—stand as a testament to Scotland’s layered past. The castle’s current role as an event venue ensures its story continues, now backdrop to celebrations rather than conflicts.

Visit Midmar Castle

While not regularly open to the public, the castle’s fairytale silhouette can be admired from afar! Explore the surrounding Aberdeenshire trails or attend one of its exclusive events to soak in the atmosphere of this aristocratic survivor.

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For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midmar_Castle

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