The Enchanting Kellie Castle: Where History and Beauty Converge
Greetings, fellow castle enthusiasts! Today, let’s step into
the past and explore the captivating Kellie Castle—a hidden gem nestled in the
East Neuk of Fife, Scotland.
A Tapestry of Time: Kellie’s Story
Early Origins and Noble Owners
The tale of Kellie Castle begins in the 12th century, where
it first graced the pages of history. Mentioned in a charter issued by King
David I, it stood proudly on the landscape.
Robert of London, an illegitimate son of King William the
Lion, held the castle initially. But soon, it passed into the hands of the
Siward family, who hailed from Northumbria and played a pivotal role in
overthrowing Macbeth.
The Oliphant Legacy (1360–1613)
Enter the Oliphants—a family whose name would become
synonymous with Kellie for over two centuries. In 1360, Helena Sieward (or
Elena), the Lady of Kellie, assigned the castle to her kinsman, Walter Oliphant
of Aberdalgie. Walter was married to Elizabeth, a daughter of none other than
Robert the Bruce.
The Oliphants weathered wars of independence, political
turmoil, and changing allegiances. Their tenure at Kellie Castle spanned
generations, leaving an indelible mark on its stones.
Thomas Erskine and Royal Connections
In 1613, Kellie Castle changed hands once more. Sir Thomas
Erskine, who had saved King James VI’s life during the Gowrie Conspiracy,
acquired the castle. The King himself visited Kellie in 1617—the only time he
set foot in Scotland after the Union of the Crowns.
Thomas Erskine’s influence extended beyond mere ownership.
He adorned the castle with an impressive mix of gables, corbelled towers, and
chimneys—a fine example of Scots Baronial architecture.
The Haunted Tower and T-Plan Layout
The oldest part of Kellie Castle—the northwest tower—dates
back to around 1360. Some say it’s haunted, its stones whispering ancient
secrets.
In 1573, the 4th Lord Oliphant added a new tower to the
east, possibly as a jointure-house for his wife, Margaret. Between 1573 and
1606, these two towers were linked by a range, creating the distinctive T-plan
layout we see today.
Recent History and Abandonment
The castle continued its journey through time, passing from
one Earl of Kellie to another. However, by the 19th century, neglect set in.
John Francis Miller Erskine, the 11th Earl of Kellie,
abandoned the castle, and its contents were auctioned off in 1830.
Visit Kellie Castle Today
Imagine strolling through its rooms adorned with fine
artworks, ornate plasterwork, and Victorian elegance.
Explore the Arts & Crafts garden, breathe in the scent
of roses, and let the castle’s walls echo with centuries of stories.
So, my fellow time-travellers, pack your curiosity and step
into Kellie Castle—a place where medieval stonework meets Victorian style.
For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:
https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/
https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/kellie-castle
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1NTTk4vGyDXVvUWaZkYuTE6X1IA9p8A8&usp=sharing
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