History of Castle Stalker
Greetings, history lovers! Let’s embark on a journey to the
stunning west coast of Scotland, where Castle Stalker stands majestically on a
tidal islet in Loch Laich. This iconic four-storey tower house has a rich
history and has been home to several notable clans over the centuries.
A Glimpse into History:
1320: The original structure on this site was a small fort
built by Clan MacDougall, who were then the Lords of Lorn. The name “Stalker”
comes from the Gaelic “Stalcaire,” meaning “hunter” or “falconer.”
1388: The Lordship of Lorn passed to the Stewarts, who are
believed to have built the castle in its present form around the 1440s. Sir
John Stewart, the then Lord of Lorn, played a significant role in its
construction.
1620: A drunken bet led to the castle passing to Clan Campbell.
The Campbells and Stewarts had a history of rivalry, and the castle changed
hands between these clans a couple of times.
1840: The Campbells abandoned the castle after it lost its
roof. It remained in a state of disrepair for many years.
1908: Charles Stewart of Achara purchased the castle and
began basic conservation work.
1965: Lt. Col. D. R. Stewart Allward acquired the castle and
undertook a full restoration over ten years. Thanks to his efforts, Castle
Stalker is now one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses in western
Scotland.
Architectural Marvel: Castle Stalker is a classic example of
a Scottish tower house, featuring thick stone walls, narrow windows, and a
crenellated parapet. Its isolated location on a tidal islet adds to its mystique
and charm, making it a favourite subject for photographers and history
enthusiasts alike.
Strategic Location: Situated in the Lynn of Lorn National
Scenic Area, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Its strategic position made it a valuable stronghold in Scotland’s medieval
power struggles.
Today, Castle Stalker remains in private ownership but is
open to the public at selected times during the summer. It stands as a
testament to Scotland’s rich history and the enduring legacy of the clans who
once called it home.
Have you visited Castle Stalker? Share your photos and experiences
in the comments below!
Feel free to add any personal touches or additional
information to make this post your own!
https://hiddenscotland.co/listings/castle-stalker/
https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/
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