Doune Castle
A Medieval Masterpiece of Royal Intrigue & Hollywood Fame
Rising majestically above the River Teith near Stirling,
Doune Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic medieval strongholds—a place
where royal drama, clan rivalries, and blockbuster filming collide. From its
ties to Scottish kings to its star turn in Outlander and Monty Python, this 14th-century
gem is a must-visit.
📍 Location
Where: Doune, Perthshire (8 miles NW of Stirling, 1 hour from Edinburgh/Glasgow)
Why Visit: Unparalleled medieval architecture, Hollywood connections, and Stirling’s strategic battlescape
📜 A History Fit for Kings (and Rebels)
14th Century: Royal Power Play
Built in 1380s by Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany—Scotland’s de facto ruler during the captivity of his brother, King Robert III.
Essentially Scotland’s alternative royal residence when Stirling Castle was occupied by English forces.
15th–16th Century: Crown Jewel & Prison
Hosted James I after his return from English captivity in 1424.
Later held Margaret Tudor (sister of Henry VIII) during her tumultuous marriage to James IV.
Briefly seized by Jacobites in 1745 during Bonnie Prince Charlie’s uprising.
17th Century: Decline & Survival
Avoided destruction during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, becoming a rare intact medieval castle.
👑 Key Figures in Its Story
Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany: The “uncrowned king” who built Doune as his power base.
Mary, Queen of Scots: Stayed here in 1565 during her marriage tour.
Bonnie Prince Charlie: Used it as a prison for government troops during the ’45 Rising.
🎬 Pop Culture Legend
Monty Python’s Holy Grail (1975): Famed as “Castle Aaargh” and Camelot.
Outlander’s “Castle Leoch” (2014–present): Home to Clan MacKenzie.
Game of Thrones: Stood in for Winterfell in Season 1.
⚔️ Political Significance
Royal Rivalry: Albany’s rule here exposed Scotland’s medieval succession crises.
Strategic Stronghold: Controlled access to the Highlands—key during Wars of Independence.
Jacobite Symbol: Its 1745 use highlighted the castle’s enduring military importance.
🌟 Visiting Today
Open to the Public (Historic Environment Scotland)
Hours:
Apr–Sep: Daily 9:30am–5:30pm
Oct–Mar: Sat–Wed 10am–4pm
Admission: £10 adults / £6 kids (HES members free)
Don’t Miss:
The 100-step battlements with views to the Trossachs.
The Lord’s Hall with its 42-foot fireplace.
Audio tours by Monty Python’s Terry Jones (hilariously informative!).
🗨️ Pro Tip: Visit early to
avoid crowds—and practice your Holy Grail quotes in the courtyard!
📍 Fun Fact: The castle’s
14th-century kitchen still has its original bread oven—older than the Aztec
Empire! 🍞🔥
For more of the Castles of Scotland
series visit:
https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com
https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/doune-castle/
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1NTTk4vGyDXVvUWaZkYuTE6X1IA9p8A8&usp=sharing
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