Old Inverlochy Castle! 

 

Greetings, history buffs! Let’s journey to the majestic Highlands of Scotland, where the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle stand as a testament to centuries of Scottish history.

 

A Glimpse into History:

 

13th Century: Built around 1270-1280 by John “the Black” Comyn, Lord of Badenoch and Lochaber, Old Inverlochy Castle was a formidable stronghold for the powerful Clan Comyn. It may have been constructed on the site of an earlier Pictish fortification.

1306: After Robert the Bruce ascended to the Scottish throne, he captured and burned the castle, leading to the Comyns’ dispossession.

1431: The castle witnessed the first Battle of Inverlochy, where Alexander MacDonald, Lord of the Isles, defeated King James I’s larger army.

1501: Control of the castle passed to Clan Cameron, who held it until 1505.

1505: The partially ruined castle was granted to Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly, who was tasked with repairing it for use as a Royal garrison.

1645: During the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, the castle served as a stopping-off point for the royalist army of James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose, culminating in a victory for the royalists in the second Battle of Inverlochy.

19th Century: The estate was bought by James Scarlett, 1st Baron Abinger, who made minor enhancements to the castle in preparation for Queen Victoria’s visit in 1873.

Architectural Marvel: Old Inverlochy Castle is unique in that it has remained largely unchanged since its construction. The castle features a quadrangular courtyard surrounded by a substantial curtain wall, with round towers at each corner. The largest of these, known as the Comyn Tower, served as the castle’s keep.

 

Strategic Location: Situated on the south bank of the River Lochy, the castle commands the entrance to the Great Glen, a key passage through the Scottish Highlands. Its strategic position made it a vital stronghold in Scotland’s medieval power struggles.

 

Today, Old Inverlochy Castle stands as a scheduled monument, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. The ruins provide a unique insight into the lives of those who once occupied this stronghold and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Have you visited Old Inverlochy Castle? Share your photos and experiences in the comments below!

 

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Discover the Mysteries of Gylen Castle!

 

Greetings, history enthusiasts! Let’s set sail to the rugged Isle of Kerrera, where Gylen Castle stands proudly—a weathered sentinel overlooking the Firth of Lorne.

 

A Brief History:

1582: The MacDougalls, a clan with a penchant for impressive architecture, raised Gylen Castle. Duncan MacDougall, their chief architect (okay, maybe not officially, but let’s pretend), put his heart and stones into this tower house. Picture it: rugged cliffs, salty sea breezes, and a castle rising defiantly against the elements.

1647: Fast-forward to the tumultuous Wars of the Three Kingdoms. General David Leslie, leading the Covenanters (think of them as the historical Avengers), decided to crash Gylen’s party. The castle was besieged, flames danced on its walls, and the Brooch of Lorn—yes, that very brooch from Robert the Bruce’s cloak—was swiped. Not cool, General Leslie!

19th Century: The Campbells of Inverawe (who, by the way, sound like they could be characters in a Highland romance novel) finally returned the Brooch of Lorn. It’s like a historical game of “Finders Keepers” but with more kilts and fewer playground rules.

The Setting: Imagine rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and a castle silhouette against the moody Scottish sky. Gylen Castle perches on a rocky promontory, surveying the Firth of Lorne like a wise old seafarer. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to find a hidden treasure chest or a ghostly bagpiper playing tunes from centuries past.

 

Fun Fact: Gylen Castle was made a scheduled monument in 1931. So, if you’re ever in the neighbourhood, swing by and pay your respects to the MacDougalls and their epic architectural endeavors.

 

Have you visited Gylen Castle? Share your photos and tales in the comments below!

 

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https://www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk/the-best-castles/scenic-castles/gylen-castle/

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Unveil the Enchanting History of Moy Castle!

 

Nestled on the picturesque Isle of Mull, Moy Castle is a captivating historical site with a rich and storied past. Built in the 15th century by Hector MacLean, the castle has been a significant stronghold for the Maclean family and has witnessed numerous historical events that have shaped Scotland’s history.

Historical Highlights:

15th Century: Moy Castle was constructed by Hector MacLean, brother of Maclean of Duart, and became the seat of the Maclaines of Lochbuie. The castle’s strategic location provided a strong defensive position and a commanding view over Loch Buie.

1494: The first surviving mention of the castle appears in a royal charter confirming that John Maclean, 5th Laird, held his lands from the Lord of the Isles. This charter highlights the castle’s importance in the feudal system of the time.

1690: The castle was captured by Clan Campbell due to the Maclaines’ involvement in the Jacobite rising of 16893. This event marked a significant shift in power and control in the region.

1697: The castle was restored to the Maclaines after being surrendered to the Earl of Argyll3. This restoration underscored the resilience and determination of the Maclaines to reclaim their ancestral home.

1752: Moy Castle was abandoned as a residence when Lochbuie House was built nearby. The new house provided more modern accommodations, leading to the castle’s decline.

Architectural Features: Moy Castle is a three-storey tower house with a garret. The ground floor contains a well, cut into solid rock, which always has fresh water. The castle’s impressive barrel-vaulted chambers and thick stone walls are a testament to medieval architecture. The crenellated parapet and remains of two cap-houses at the upper level add to its historic charm.

Cultural Significance: Moy Castle played a crucial role in the history of Scotland, particularly during the turbulent times of clan rivalries and Jacobite uprisings. Its capture and subsequent restoration reflect the shifting allegiances and power struggles that defined the era. The castle’s connection to the Maclean family, one of the prominent clans in Scottish history, further enhances its cultural significance.

Today, Moy Castle stands as a scheduled monument, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. The ruins provide a fascinating insight into the lives of those who once occupied this stronghold and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Have you visited Moy Castle? Share your photos and experiences in the comments below!

 

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

https://www.isle-of-mull.net/attractions/history/castles/moy-castle/

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Torosay Castle: Where Highland History Meets Dramatic Beauty

 

Introduction

Perched on the rugged coast of the Morvern peninsula, overlooking the Sound of Mull, Torosay Castle (formerly known as Dounarwyse Castle) stands as a silent sentinel—a testament to Scotland’s rich and tumultuous history. Its dramatic ruins evoke tales of clan rivalries, strategic power struggles, and the enduring spirit of those who once called it home. Let’s delve into the captivating history of Torosay Castle.

 

Origins and Architectural Splendor

Torosay Castle, situated 2 miles (2.5 kilometers) south of Craignure on the Isle of Mull, was designed by the renowned architect David Bryce in the Scottish Baronial style. Its construction was commissioned by John Campbell of Possil in the 1850s. Originally known as Duart House, the castle underwent a transformation on a grand scale, reflecting the aspirations of its owner.

 

The Lords of the Isles and Clan Guthrie

Torosay Castle has a rich lineage. It was once a stronghold of the powerful Clan Donald, specifically the Lords of the Isles. John of Islay, the sixth chief of Clan Donald, inherited the estate in the 1380s. His son, Donald of Islay, later sold the property to Arbuthnot Charles Guthrie in 1865. The Guthrie family owned Torosay Castle until 1911, when it was sold as a ruin to Sir Fitzroy Maclean, who undertook its restoration.

 

Gardens and Italian Statues

Torosay Castle is surrounded by 12 acres (5 hectares) of spectacular gardens. These include formal terraces laid out at the turn of the 20th century, attributed to the renowned architect Sir Robert Lorimer. The garden’s Statue Walk is particularly intriguing—it features 19 statues in the style of Italian sculptor Antonio Bonazza. These statues were acquired by Walter Murray Guthrie from a derelict garden near Milan and shipped to Scotland as ballast in a cargo ship.

 

Notable Residents and Literary Connections

Torosay Castle has hosted illustrious guests. The novelist Angela du Maurier, older sister of Dame Daphne du Maurier, spent time at Torosay with her close companion Olive Guthrie (great grandmother of the present owner). Angela dedicated her book Weep No More (1940) to “Olive Guthrie of Torosay.” Other visitors during the 1930s included Winston Churchill (Olive Guthrie was his aunt by marriage) and King George of Greece.

 

21st Century and Private Ownership

In 2012, Christopher Guthrie-James, the fifth laird of Torosay Castle, sold the property. The new owner, the McLean Fund, closed it for renovations. By December 2013, a private family once again occupied the castle. Guthrie-James expressed a sense of relief rather than regret upon selling the family home at Torosay, marking a new chapter in the castle’s storied existence.

Torosay Castle, with its windswept ruins and lush gardens, invites us to step back in time. As you stand amidst its weathered stones, imagine the lives of Highland chiefs, the echoes of ancient conversations, and the resilience of those who shaped its history. Torosay remains a beacon of Scotland’s enduring spirit.

If you ever wander the Isle of Mull, seek out Torosay Castle—a place where legends and reality intertwine.

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https://mull-historical-society.co.uk/daily-life/castles-fortifications/castles/torosay-castle/

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Ardtornish Castle: Highland Chiefs and Clans

Ardtornish Castle

Introduction

Nestled on the rugged coast of the Morvern peninsula, overlooking the Sound of Mull, Ardtornish Castle stands as a silent witness to Scotland’s storied past. Its dramatic ruins evoke tales of clan rivalries, strategic power struggles, and the enduring spirit of those who once called it home. Let’s explore the captivating history of Ardtornish Castle.

 

Origins and Early History

Ardtornish Castle, also known as Dounarwyse Castle, has its roots in the 13th century. It was most likely erected by the Macdonald family, a powerful clan in the region. The castle sits atop a rocky knoll, strategically positioned to control access to the Sound of Mull—a vital waterway for trade and defense1. Excavations have revealed the remains of irregular-shaped residential buildings, hinting at its historical significance.

 

Clan Donald and the Lords of the Isles

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Ardtornish Castle served as one of the principal seats of the high chiefs of Clan Donald. The Lords of the Isles, heirs of the legendary Somerled, held sway over the Western Seaboard from this stronghold. Notably:

 

John of Islay, Lord of the Isles: In the 1380s, John of Islay, the 6th chief of Clan Donald, died at Ardtornish Castle. His funeral procession sailed through the Sound of Mull to the sacred island of Iona, where he was buried alongside other family members.

Donald of Islay, Lord of the Isles: John’s son and successor, Donald of Islay, granted charters dated at Ardtornish. Tradition holds that it was from here that his galley fleet set sail to transport the vassals of the Isles to the west coast of Ross-shire, supporting Donald’s claim to the Earldom of Ross. This led to the indecisive Battle of Harlaw in 1411.

Treaty of Ardtornish-Westminster

In 1461, John of Islay, the fourth and last Lord of the Isles, met with English commissioners at Ardtornish Castle. The resulting Treaty of Ardtornish-Westminster was a remarkable agreement: In return for becoming loyal subjects of the King of England, the Lords of the Isles were promised a third of the kingdom of Scotland. The treaty aimed to divide Scotland among the conspirators, including John’s kinsman Donald Balloch of Dunnyvaig and the Glens, and the forfeited Earl of Douglas.

 

MacLean Ownership and Decline

After the forfeiture of the Lordship of the Isles, Ardtornish Castle passed into the hands of the Clan MacLean. However, by the end of the 17th century, the castle had lost its strategic importance. The Campbell Earls of Argyll captured Ardtornish and other Morvern estates from the MacLeans. The castle was likely abandoned, its once-mighty walls succumbing to time and the elements.

 

Ardtornish Castle, with its rich history and windswept ruins, invites us to imagine the lives of Highland chiefs, the clash of clans, and the echoes of ancient battles. As you stand on the rocky promontory, gazing at the weathered stones, let the legacy of Ardtornish speak to you—a testament to Scotland’s enduring spirit.

 

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Aros Castle: A Highland Stronghold Through the Ages

Introduction

Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Sound of Mull, Aros Castle, also known as Dounarwyse Castle, stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich and turbulent history. This ancient fortress, with its dramatic ruins and strategic location, has witnessed centuries of clan conflicts, royal interventions, and the ebb and flow of power. Let’s delve into the rich history of Aros Castle and the notable figures who shaped its legacy.

 

Origins and Early History

Aros Castle was built in the 13th century by the Clan MacDougall. The castle’s strategic location on the Isle of Mull allowed it to control access to the Sound of Mull and the surrounding areas. The castle was initially a stronghold of the MacDougall lords of Lorn, who were powerful figures in the region.

 

The MacDougalls and the Lords of the Isles

The MacDougalls were staunch supporters of the English crown during the Wars of Scottish Independence. However, their allegiance to Edward I led to their downfall. After Robert the Bruce’s victory, the MacDougalls’ lands, including Aros Castle, were forfeited1. The castle was then granted to Angus Og of Islay, a loyal supporter of Robert the Bruce and a member of the Clan Donald.

 

During the late 14th and 15th centuries, Aros Castle was used as an occasional base by the Lords of the Isles, the powerful rulers of the western seaboard of Scotland1. The castle was known as Dounarwyse Castle during this period.

 

The MacLeans of Duart

In 1493, the Lordship of the Isles was forfeited to the Scottish crown, and Aros Castle was granted to the MacLeans of Duart. The MacLeans were a prominent clan in the region, and they held the castle for several centuries. The castle served as a key defensive stronghold and a symbol of the MacLeans’ power and influence.

 

Lord Ochiltree and the Island Chiefs

In 1608, on the orders of King James VI, Lord Ochiltree lured many unruly island chiefs to Aros Castle under the pretense of a meeting. Once they were gathered, he imprisoned them and transported them to Blackness Castle on the mainland. This event marked a significant moment in the crown’s efforts to bring the western isles under tighter control.

 

The Campbells and Decline

In 1674, the Campbell Earl of Argyll occupied Aros Castle with 2,000 men to punish the MacLeans of Duart. This occupation led to significant bloodshed and further weakened the MacLeans’ hold on the region. By the 18th century, Aros Castle had lost its strategic importance to the nearby town of Tobermory, which offered a more sheltered harbour.

 

The castle fell into ruin and was described as “ruinous, old, useless and never of any strength” by 1688. Despite its dilapidated state, the castle remains a scheduled monument, preserving its historical significance.

 

Visiting Aros Castle

Today, Aros Castle is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and adventurers. The castle’s dramatic location offers stunning views of the Sound of Mull and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine the lives of the clans who once defended its walls.

 

Aros Castle, with its storied past and dramatic ruins, continues to captivate the imagination of all who visit. As you stand on the rocky promontory, gazing at the castle’s weathered stones, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient battles and the whispers of clan chiefs long gone. The legacy of Aros Castle lives on, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Scottish Highlands.

 

https://mull-historical-society.co.uk/daily-life/castles-fortifications/castles/aros-castle

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Tioram Castle: A Highland Stronghold Through the Ages

Introduction 

Perched on the tidal island of Eilean Tioram in Loch Moidart, Tioram Castle (pronounced “Cheer-um”) stands as a testament to Scotland’s turbulent history. This ancient fortress, with its dramatic ruins and strategic location, has witnessed centuries of clan conflicts, royal interventions, and the ebb and flow of power. Let’s delve into the rich history of Tioram Castle and the notable figures who shaped its legacy.

 

Origins and Early History

Tioram Castle’s origins date back to the 12th century, though some sources suggest it may have been constructed in the 13th or 14th century. The castle was initially a stronghold of Clann Ruaidhrí, a powerful Gaelic family. The island on which the castle stands, Eilean Tioram, is first recorded in a charter of Cairistíona Nic Ruaidhrí, daughter of Ailéan mac Ruaidhrí. According to tradition, the castle was erected by Ailéan’s granddaughter, Áine Nic Ruaidhrí.

The Clanranald Dynasty

Tioram Castle became the principal seat of the Clanranald branch of Clan Donald (Clann Raghnaill) for centuries. The castle’s strategic position allowed the Clanranalds to control access to Loch Shiel and the surrounding areas, making it a vital stronghold in the Western Highlands.

 

Allan Macdonald of Clanranald: One of the most notable residents, Allan Macdonald, joined the Jacobite Court in France around 1692, despite having sworn allegiance to William III and Mary II of England1. As a result, the castle was seized by Government forces and garrisoned until the Jacobite rising of 1715. Allan recaptured and torched the castle to prevent it from falling into Hanoverian hands.

Royal and Military Significance

Throughout its history, Tioram Castle played a significant role in the power struggles of the Highlands. Its strategic location made it a key military asset, and it was often at the center of conflicts between rival clans and the Scottish crown.

 

Government Seizure: In 1692, the castle was seized by Government forces when Allan Macdonald joined the Jacobite cause1. A small garrison was stationed at the castle until the Jacobite rising of 1715, when Allan recaptured and burned it.

Jacobite Uprisings: During the Jacobite uprisings, the castle served as a storage site for firearms and other supplies. Its strategic importance continued to be recognized, even as it fell into disrepair.

Decline and Ruin

After the Jacobite rising of 1715, Tioram Castle was abandoned and fell into ruin. Despite its dilapidated state, the castle remains a scheduled monument and a symbol of the Clanranalds’ enduring legacy.

Restoration Proposals

In 1997, new owners, Anta Estates, announced plans to restore the castle and create a clan center/museum, along with domestic apartments and public access. However, Historic Scotland refused Scheduled Monument Consent, and the decision was upheld after a local public inquiry. The castle remains closed to the public due to its poor condition, though its main structure is considered "inherently strong".

Visiting Tioram Castle

Today, Tioram Castle is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and adventurers. While the castle itself is closed to visitors, it is possible to visit the island at low tide and view the exterior from a safe distance. The castle’s dramatic location and rich history make it a must-see for those exploring the Scottish Highlands.

Tioram Castle, with its storied past and dramatic ruins, continues to captivate the imagination of all who visit. As you stand on the shores of Loch Moidart, gazing at the castle’s weathered stones, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient battles and the whispers of clan chiefs long gone. The legacy of Tioram Castle lives on, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Scottish Highlands.

 

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