Finlarig Castle

Let’s wander through the ancient halls of Finlarig Castle—a hidden gem perched on a peninsula between the River Lochay and Loch Tay, just over half a mile north of Killin in Stirling (formerly in Perthshire), Scotland. 

A Tapestry of Time

The Oliphants and Clan Menzies

Early Origins: Finlarig Castle’s story begins in the 12th century, mentioned in a charter issued by King David I. The Siward family, with ties to Northumbria, held the castle initially.

Oliphant Legacy: For over two centuries, the Oliphants—their name synonymous with Finlarig—ruled these stones. They weathered wars, shifting allegiances, and political intrigue. In 1371, James Menzies married Barbara Stewart, daughter of the 3rd Earl of Atholl, sealing their love with a marriage stone above the entrance.

Jacobite Drama and Bonnie Prince Charlie

1745 Rising: During the Jacobite Rising of 1745, Finlarig Castle played its part. Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Stuart pretender, rested here on his way to the fateful Battle of Culloden. Imagine the whispers of clans rallying and destinies hanging in the Highland mist.

Duleep Singh and Exile

Maharajah’s Refuge: In the mid-19th century, Duleep Singh, the last maharajah of the Sikh Empire, sought solace within these walls. Exiled from the Punjab, he found refuge at Finlarig. A clash of cultures—the maharajah’s turbans against the Highland mist.

Visit Finlarig Castle Today

Time-Weathered Beauty: Wander through its chambers, where Renaissance elegance meets rugged strength. Admire the stonework, breathe in the Highland air, and feel the weight of history.

Whispers of Kings and Clans: Imagine the echoes—the courage of generations, the resilience of stone, and the legends that echo across Loch Tay.

So, my fellow time-travelers, let’s raise a virtual goblet to Finlarig Castle—a Highland saga etched in every stone. 🥂🔥

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/killin/finlarigcastle/index.html

 

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Castle Menzies: A Highland Legacy

Let’s wander through the ancient halls of Castle Menzies—a fortress that has stood sentinel in the heart of Scotland for centuries.

Castle Menzies: A Tapestry of Time

Origins and Noble Lineage

Castle Menzies, with its classic Z-shaped design, exudes both rugged strength and Renaissance elegance. Most of its stonework dates back to the 16th century, although hints of the 15th century linger in its shadows.

The castle proudly served as the ancestral seat of the Clan Menzies and the Menzies Baronets. Imagine the echoes of generations within these walls!

The Oliphants and Their Legacy

The Oliphants, a family steeped in Scottish lore, held sway over Castle Menzies for over two centuries. Their story intertwines with Scotland’s turbulent history—the Wars of Independence, shifting allegiances, and political intrigue.

In 1371, James Menzies immortalized his marriage to Barbara Stewart, daughter of the 3rd Earl of Atholl, with a marriage stone above the original entrance. Love and lineage etched in stone!

Jacobite Drama and Bonnie Prince Charlie

Castle Menzies played its part during the Jacobite Rising of 1745. Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Stuart pretender, rested here on his way to the fateful battle of Culloden.

The castle’s stones whispered secrets as clans rallied and destinies hung in the balance.

Duleep Singh and Exile

In the mid-19th century, Duleep Singh, the last maharajah of the Sikh Empire, sought refuge within these walls. Exiled from the Punjab, he found solace at Castle Menzies.

Imagine the clash of cultures—the maharajah’s turbans against the Highland mist.

Fire, Auctions, and New Beginnings

In 1878, flames licked the castle’s roof, threatening its ancient timbers. Brave locals fought the fire, preserving its legacy.

Auctions followed—the castle’s contents scattered, its papers sold. Yet Castle Menzies endured.

Visit Castle Menzies Today

Wander its chambers, admire the Renaissance details, and breathe in the Highland air.

Feel the weight of history—the whispers of kings, the courage of clans, and the resilience of stone.

So, my fellow time-travellers, let’s raise a virtual goblet to Castle Menzies—a Highland saga etched in every stone.

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.castlemenzies.org/visit/

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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://discoverscottishgardens.org/kellie-castle-reviving-the-spirit-of-an-historic-garden/

https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/kellie-castle

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Blackness Castle: Where History Meets the Firth of Forth 

 

Greetings, fellow castle enthusiasts!

Today, let’s set sail (metaphorically, of course) to Blackness Castle—a remarkable fortress perched on the shores of the Firth of Forth. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

 

A Stone Ship Ashore

📍 Location: Blackness, Linlithgow EH49 7NH  Contact: 01506 834 807  Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

 

A Multifaceted Past

Blackness Castle wears its history like armour—layer upon layer of intrigue, resilience, and purpose. Let’s dive in:

 

The Crichtons and Royal Residence (15th Century):

Originally built in the 15th century, Blackness Castle served as a lordly residence for the Crichton family—one of Scotland’s powerful clans.

But wait, there’s more! It also played port duty for the nearby royal burgh of Linlithgow, where Scottish monarchs held court in their splendid palace.

The Ship That Never Sailed:

From the seaward side, Blackness appears like a great stone ship run aground. Its pointed stem juts into the water, while the square stern stands firmly on dry land.

The three towers enhance the illusion: the small ‘stem’ tower at the prow, the tall ‘main mast’ tower, and the solid ‘stern’ tower at the rear. No sails needed—just cannons!

Artillery Fortification (16th Century):

James V, ever wary of Henry VIII’s England, transformed Blackness into an artillery fortress and state prison.

Completed in 1542, it stood ready for the Wars of the Rough Wooing. No subtlety here—just brute masonry and cannons firing through strategically placed gun holes.

State Prison and High-Profile Prisoners:

Blackness wasn’t just a nobleman’s residence; it was a garrison stronghold and a state prison.

Cardinal David Beaton, Archbishop of St Andrews, languished here in 1543. He was a rival to the Earl of Arran, Regent of Scotland during Mary Queen of Scots’ infancy.

Later, during the ‘Killing Time’ of the 1670s and 1680s, Covenanters faced confinement within these walls.

Foreign sailors and soldiers captured during wars with France, Spain, and the fledgling USA also found themselves imprisoned here.

 

Natural Beauty and Wildlife:

The foreshore and mudflats east of the castle are part of the River Forth Site of Special Scientific Interest. Overwintering birds flock here, and rare glasswort plants thrive.

Fun fact: Glasswort’s fleshy leaves were once used for soap and glass-making. Talk about versatile vegetation!

Visit Blackness Castle Today

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of dramatic views, or simply curious about the ship-shaped fortress, Blackness awaits your exploration. Bring your imagination, your camera, and a sense of wonder—it’s a voyage through time you won’t forget!

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/blackness-castle-p248561

 

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The Timeless Majesty of Edinburgh Castle!

 

Greetings, fellow history enthusiasts! Today, let’s journey to the heart of Scotland—where rugged cliffs meet ancient stone—and explore the storied Edinburgh Castle. Perched dramatically atop Castle Rock, this fortress has witnessed centuries of intrigue, battles, and royal drama. So grab your virtual torches, and let’s step into the past!

 

Edinburgh Castle: A Fortress Through the Ages

Ancient Origins and Iron Age Forts

Edinburgh Castle’s roots stretch back into prehistory. Imagine Iron Age warriors standing guard on this very rock! They built a hill fort here, recognizing its strategic advantage. Early medieval tales speak of war bands feasting within these walls before riding off to meet their fate in battle.

 

Wars of Independence and Shifting Hands

During the Wars of Scottish Independence, Edinburgh Castle became a vital prize. It changed hands like a hot potato—sometimes in daring night raids. In 1314, Thomas Randolph (a relative of Robert the Bruce) led a stealthy mission to reclaim it from the English. The castle’s defences evolved over time, with mighty cannons like Mons Meg and bronze guns known as the Seven Sisters guarding its walls.

 

Royal Residence and Tragic Queens

Queen Margaret (1093): The castle hosted kings and queens for centuries. Queen Margaret (later Saint Margaret) breathed her last here in 1093. Her son, King David I, built St. Margaret’s Chapel—the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh—to honour her memory. Today, it still hosts weddings and christenings.

King James IV and the Great Hall (1511): King James IV completed the magnificent Great Hall, where grand banquets and state events unfolded. Sadly, he didn’t enjoy it for long; he fell at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, fighting against English forces sent by his brother-in-law, King Henry VIII.

Mary Queen of Scots (1566): Ah, Mary! She gave birth to James VI in the Royal Palace within these walls. James would later unite the crowns of Scotland and England in 1603, becoming James I of England and VI of Scotland.

The Honours of Scotland: Ancient Crown Jewels

The Honours of Scotland—Scotland’s oldest Crown jewels—are housed here. Crafted from gold, silver, and precious gems, they shimmer with centuries of history. James IV and James V commissioned these regal treasures.

 

Besieged, Restored, and Iconic

Most Besieged Place in Britain: Edinburgh Castle holds the record. In 1639, it fell to Covenanter forces in just 30 minutes. A Jacobite attempt during the Rising of 1715 failed miserably—their ladder was too short to scale the ramparts!

National Icon: Over the last 200 years, Edinburgh Castle has become synonymous with Scotland itself. It’s more than a fortress; it’s a living testament to resilience, culture, and the indomitable spirit of the Scots.

So next time you visit, imagine the echoes of ancient footsteps—of kings, queens, and those intrepid Iron Age warriors. And if you hear whispers in the wind, perhaps it’s the castle sharing its secrets.

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/

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 Hermitage Castle

The Mysteries of Hermitage Castle: A Journey Through Time

 

Greetings, history enthusiasts! Today, let’s delve into the captivating tale of Hermitage Castle—a brooding fortress that has stood witness to centuries of turmoil, intrigue, and romance.

 

Hermitage Castle: A Brief Overview

Location: Newcastleton, Roxburghshire, Scotland 📞 Contact: 01387 376 222 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM

 

Guarding the Bloodiest Valley

Hermitage Castle, perched in the heart of Liddesdale, exudes an eerie aura. Its crumbling walls echo tales of torture, treason, and clandestine affairs. For over 400 years, this castle held the key to controlling the Scottish Middle March—a region perpetually caught in the crossfire of Scottish and English conflicts. George Macdonald Fraser aptly called it “the guardhouse of the bloodiest valley in Britain” in his book, The Steel Bonnets.

 

Inhabitants Through the Ages

De Soules Residence (1240s): The earliest records mention the de Soules family as residents of Hermitage Castle. Their presence likely predates the current castle, perhaps situated near the chapel ruins to the west.

Sir Hugh de Dacre (1360): English lord Sir Hugh de Dacre initiated the construction of the present castle. Little did he know that this act would nearly plunge Scotland and England into war.

William, 1st Earl of Douglas (15th Century): William Douglas, one of Scotland’s most powerful nobles, transformed Hermitage Castle. He fortified it against threats, including the advent of gunpowder artillery. Gun holes punctured its thick walls, and a massive gun defence was erected outside to safeguard the western approach.

Mary Queen of Scots (1566): Hermitage Castle played a pivotal role in Mary’s life. When her trusted noble, James Hepburn (4th Earl of Bothwell), was wounded in a skirmish with reivers (cattle thieves), Mary rode 25 miles from Jedburgh to visit him. Legend suggests their secret lovers’ tryst occurred during this visit, although historical evidence remains elusive. Mary’s gruelling journey back to Jedburgh, where her horse stumbled and she fell into a bog, added to the castle’s mystique.

Significance in History and Politics

Border Bulwark: Hermitage Castle symbolized the perpetual struggle for control along the Scottish-English border. Families like the Elliots, Scotts, and Douglases forged their identities amid this cycle of conflict.

Mary’s Connection: Mary Queen of Scots left her mark on Hermitage. Whether or not her visit involved secret romance, the castle became part of her tumultuous narrative.

Abandonment and Preservation: By 1603, the castle lost its strategic importance when James VI of Scotland also became James I of England. Noble owners abandoned it, and decay set in. However, in the 1800s, the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry took up the mantle of preservation, inspired by Sir Walter Scott’s romantic writings.

Visit Hermitage Castle Today

Explore the haunting ruins, imagine the whispers of history, and marvel at the wildflowers along Hermitage Water. Ospreys nest nearby, soaring overhead in spring and early summer. Let this ancient fortress transport you back in time, where legends intertwine with reality.

 

Remember, history isn’t just about dates—it’s about the lives, passions, and secrets hidden within these ancient stones. Share your own Hermitage Castle stories below!

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/hermitage-castle/history/

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MacLellan’s Castle

MacLellan’s Castle, Kirkcudbright

 

Nestled in the charming town of Kirkcudbright, Scotland, MacLellan’s Castle is a fascinating historical gem that has witnessed centuries of Scottish and English history. Built in the late 16th century, this L-plan castle stands proudly on the south side of the River Dee, offering a glimpse into the past.

Inhabitants Through the Years

Sir Thomas MacLellan of Bombie: The original owner and builder of the castle, Sir Thomas was the Provost of Kirkcudbright and a Gentleman of the Bedchamber to James VI. He began constructing the castle around 1582 on the site of a former Greyfriars monastery.

The MacLellan Family: The castle remained in the MacLellan family until 1752. Over the years, the family faced financial difficulties, particularly due to their involvement in the Plantation of Ulster.

Sir Robert Maxwell: In 1752, the castle was sold to Sir Robert Maxwell. By this time, the castle had fallen into disrepair.

The Earls of Selkirk: From 1782 to 1912, the castle was held by the Earls of Selkirk. During this period, the castle continued to deteriorate.

Historic Environment Scotland: In 1912, the castle was handed over to the state and is now under the care of Historic Environment Scotland.

Significance in Scottish and English History and Politics:

Architectural Evolution: MacLellan’s Castle reflects a shift in Scottish tower house design during the Jacobean era. Unlike earlier castles built for defence, this castle prioritised domestic comfort, with minimal defensive features.

Royal Connections: Sir Thomas MacLellan entertained James VI at the castle, highlighting its importance as a residence for influential figures in Scottish politic2.

Religious and Political Changes: The castle’s construction on the site of a former Greyfriars monastery symbolises the religious and political upheavals of the time, particularly the Protestant Reformation.

Economic Impact: The MacLellan family’s financial struggles, partly due to their involvement in the Plantation of Ulster, reflect the broader economic challenges faced by Scottish nobility during this period.

Today, MacLellan’s Castle stands as a testament to the rich and complex history of Scotland. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque spot to explore, this castle is a must-visit!

Share your photos and experiences if you’ve visited MacLellan’s Castle!

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk/the-best-castles/magnificent-ruins/maclellan-s-castle/

 

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1NTTk4vGyDXVvUWaZkYuTE6X1IA9p8A8&usp=sharing

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