Elcho Castle
A Tower House Steeped in History
Elcho Castle, nestled near the south bank of the River Tay, about four miles southeast of Perth, Scotland, has a rich and storied past:
Construction and Ownership: Built around 1560, Elcho Castle
was the brainchild of a member of the Wemyss family. These Wemysses traced
their lineage back to the 12th century, and they maintained the castle until
the early 20th century. Interestingly, Elcho served as their country retreat—a
place where they could escape the hustle and bustle of court life and enjoy the
tranquillity of the countryside.
Architectural Uniqueness: Elcho Castle stands out
architecturally. It’s a multi-storied tower house with an approximately Z-plan
layout. Picture a large square tower at one corner, flanked by three other
integrated towers on the north side. The castle’s exterior exudes martial
strength, complete with gun holes for defence. Yet, step inside, and you’ll
find comfort and lavish living. The first floor (the “noble floor”) boasts a
main hall, south-facing windows, and a great bedchamber. The upper floors
feature multiple smaller rooms and even a “guest wing” with its own latrines—an
unusual touch for the time.
Guests and En Suite Accommodation: Elcho Castle was no
ordinary fortress. It combined the best of both worlds: en suite guest
accommodation akin to a mansion and a formidable defensive structure. Imagine
noble guests enjoying the view from the walkway on top of the walls, while gun
loops below kept watch. The castle’s turnpike staircase led to the first floor,
where private receptions took place. And yes, there were even en suite latrines—a
luxury in medieval times.
Inhabitants and Hauntings: Over the centuries, Elcho Castle
hosted lords, ladies, and their retinues. But it’s not just the living who left
their mark. Legend has it that a “White Lady” haunts the castle—a bogle (ghost)
of a woman who met a fiery fate when her dress caught fire. Perhaps she still
roams the halls, a silent witness to history.
Elcho Castle Gardens: A Natural Haven
Beyond its stone walls, Elcho Castle’s gardens beckon:
Orchard Revival: The castle’s orchard, once a retreat for
the wealthy Wemyss family, has been lovingly replanted with traditional apple,
pear, and plum varieties. Today, it’s not just fruit trees—it’s a haven for
butterflies and wildlife, adding a touch of magic to the historic grounds.
Living Creatures: While humans no longer inhabit Elcho
Castle, it remains home to other creatures. Pipistrelle bats, brown long-eared
bats, barn owls, and grey squirrels find refuge within its ancient walls. The
castle’s legacy extends beyond its stones, embracing the natural world around
it.
Political Threads and Legacy
Elcho Castle’s influence reaches beyond its physical
boundaries. From its construction during the Protestant Reformation to its role
as a retreat for the Wemyss family, it reflects the shifting tides of Scottish
and British politics. Lords and ladies walked its halls, and perhaps their
conversations shaped the course of history. Elcho Castle stands as a testament
to resilience, adaptation, and the intertwining of personal lives with broader
events.
So there you have it—a glimpse into the fascinating world of
Elcho Castle, where history, gardens, and politics converge. Feel free to
explore more about this remarkable place!
For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:
https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/
https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/elcho-castle-p248441
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