Dunskey Castle
A Brief Overview
Location: Dunskey Castle stands about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) south of the village of Portpatrick in Wigtownshire, Scotland. Its commanding position on a promontory overlooking the sea has made it a captivating landmark for centuries.
Structure: Originally constructed as a 12th-century tower house, the castle evolved over time. Although now a roofless shell, its L-plan structure once boasted three stories and thick walls, measuring 30 by 14.3 meters (98 by 47 feet). A rock-cut ditch defended the only access from the north-east.
Inhabitants through the Years: A Historical Journey
John Comyn, Earl of Buchan (1290s): During the late 13th century, John Comyn held a license from Edward I of England to mine lead in the Calf of Man (off the Isle of Man’s coast). He used the proceeds to enhance Cruggleton Castle (also known as Crogiltoun Castle) in Wigtownshire. It’s possible that Dunskey Castle was built around this time as well.
Walter de Corry and John Balliol (Early 14th Century): Walter de Corry, the laird of Dunskey, held the castle. Later, King Edward I of England granted Wigtown Castle (and possibly Dunskey Castle) to John Balliol, the Scottish king. Balliol’s reign was tumultuous, marked by conflict with England and the rise of William Wallace.
Hew Montgomery and John Blair (16th and 17th Centuries): In the 16th century, Dunskey Castle underwent alterations and remodelling. It eventually passed into the hands of Hew Montgomery. By the 1660s, John Blair of Dunskey, who also served as Minister of Portpatrick, owned the castle. Unfortunately, by 1684, the castle had fallen into ruin.
Significance in Scottish and English History and Politics
Port of Castle Dunskey: Portpatrick, the nearby village, was known as the port of Castle Dunskey. The castle played a role in maritime activities and trade during its heyday.
Film and Literature: Dunskey Castle’s romantic allure captured the attention of filmmakers. It featured in the 1951 film adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Kidnapped” and the 1952 film “Hunted.”
Tragedy and Relocation: Legend has it that tragedy struck the castle when the nanny of a baby accidentally caused the child to fall from the cliffs nearby. This event supposedly led to the relocation of the castle’s inhabitants.
Access Restrictions: The current owner, Lady Amy McFall, restricts public access to the castle, adding an air of mystery and exclusivity to this historic site.
Feel free to share this post with your friends and fellow history enthusiasts! 📖✨ If you ever find yourself near Portpatrick, don’t miss the chance to explore the windswept ruins of Dunskey Castle and imagine the echoes of its storied past.
For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:
https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/
https://www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk/the-best-castles/magnificent-ruins/dunskey-castle/
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