Friday, September 6, 2024

Wemyss Castle

A Storied Past

Wemyss Castle, perched dramatically on sea cliffs between the villages of East Wemyss and West Wemyss in Fife, Scotland, has witnessed centuries of intrigue and historical events. Here are some highlights:

Construction and Ancient Seat: The castle’s construction dates back to 1421 when Sir John Wemyss decided to build a fortified stronghold to replace an earlier castle destroyed by the Duke of Rothesay. It has been the ancient seat of the Earls of Wemyss and their families ever since1.

Royal Encounters: In 1565, Mary, Queen of Scots, met her future husband, Lord Darnley, within the castle’s walls. Their union would have significant consequences for Scottish and British history. Additionally, the court of James VI stayed at Wemyss Castle in 15831.

Danish Commissioners and Scottish Lawyers: On a spring day in 1590, Danish commissioners led by Peder Munk and Scottish lawyer John Skene gathered at Wemyss Castle. Their mission? To view and take sasine (legal possession) of several royal properties, including Falkland Palace and Dunfermline Palace, gifted to Anne of Denmark by James VI as a "morning gift"1.

Intrigues and Plots: The castle also played host to intrigue. In 1591, King James had Lilias (or Sophia) Ruthven, daughter of the Earl of Gowrie, confined at Wemyss Castle to prevent her marriage to Ludovic Stewart, the Duke of Lennox. And in 1592, it sheltered Margaret Vinstarr, the queen’s Danish lady-in-waiting, whose partner had plotted against the king1.

The Green Lady: Like many Scottish castles, Wemyss is said to be haunted by a “Green Lady.” Folk beliefs associate green with misfortune, and wearing green at weddings was considered unlucky. Perhaps the castle’s spectral resident has witnessed these historical dramas firsthand1.

🌷 Wemyss Castle Gardens: A Symphony of Blooms

The castle’s six-acre walled garden, once redundant after World War II, has been lovingly restored by Charlotte Wemyss since 1993. Here’s what you’ll find:

Spring and Summer Flowers: The walled garden bursts with clematis, roses, and ornamental trees. Sweeping lawns, sculptural features, and fragrant blooms create a sensory journey. Visit from late April to July for the full floral symphony2.

Woodland Beauty: The beech woods surrounding Wemyss Castle host a stunning display of Erythronium Revolutum—a carpet of pale lilac flowers with marbled green leaves. Best seen from mid-April to May3.

Clematis Collection: The Walled Garden boasts an unofficial national collection of Montana clematis. Over 50 varieties thrive here. Late May to July is the prime time to explore this floral treasure2.

🗳️ Political Significance and Legacy

Wemyss Castle’s influence extends beyond its walls. The Wemyss family’s shifting allegiances—from Edward I of England to Robert the Bruce—reflect the tumultuous political landscape of medieval Scotland. Their connections, royal encounters, and strategic alliances have left an indelible mark on British and Scottish history45.

So there you have it—a glimpse into the captivating world of Wemyss Castle, where history, gardens, and intrigue intertwine. Feel free to explore more about this remarkable place! 🌹🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿✨

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

https://www.wemysscastlegardens.com/

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

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Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Braemar Castle

Where Legends Echo Across Centuries

Greetings, history enthusiasts and castle aficionados! Today, let’s step into the storied halls of Braemar Castle, a Highland gem that has witnessed centuries of drama, battles, and royal intrigue. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

A Key to Scotland: Braemar Castle’s Significance

Strategic Origins and Royal Patronage

Ancient Roots: Braemar’s origins are rooted in antiquity. The area has been strategically important since early times, with hill passes converging where the modern village now stands.

Royal Connections: In the 10th century, King Kenneth Macalpin enjoyed sport here, and the rocky hill that forms the backdrop to the village bears his name—Kenneth’s Crag, Creag Choinnnich.

Kindrochit Castle and Clan Farquharson

Medieval Legacy: Kindrochit Castle, known to have been in regular use by Scottish kings until the 16th century, stood near the site of the original St. Andrews.

Jacobite Uprising: In 1715, the Earl of Mar raised the standard at Braemar Castle to start the Jacobite uprising, leaving an indelible mark on Scotland’s history.

English Visitors and Tourism Boom

Queen Victoria’s Arrival: Queen Victoria’s arrival on Deeside in 1848 brought an influx of English visitors, creating the new industry of tourism for the village.

Language Shift: Gaelic, once spoken by the inhabitants of Braemar, gave way to English as the village embraced new opportunities.

Restoration and Modern Heritage

Recent Restoration: The castle has undergone restoration, preserving its historical charm.

Annual Braemar Gathering: The tradition of competitive hill races, started by King Malcolm Canmore, lives on in the annual Braemar Gathering.

So, my friends, let’s raise our virtual goblets to Braemar Castle—a living legend etched in stone and memory.

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

https://braemarcastle.co.uk/

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

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Stirling Castle

A Tapestry of Scottish History and Majesty

Greetings, fellow castle enthusiasts! Today, let’s step into the storied halls of Stirling Castle—a fortress that has witnessed centuries of drama, battles, and royal intrigue. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

A Key to Scotland: Stirling Castle’s Significance

Strategic Dominance and Royal Stronghold

Location: Perched atop an ancient extinct volcano, Stirling Castle commands breathtaking views in every direction. Standing 250 feet (75 meters) higher than the surrounding terrain, it dominates major east–west and north–south routes.

Historical Role: From the time of Robert II until the union of Scotland and England in 1707, Stirling Castle was the principal royal stronghold of the Stuart kings. Whoever held Stirling, it was said, held the key to Scotland.

A Castle of Legends and Battles

Prehistoric Origins: There has been a fortress at Stirling since prehistoric times, but the first recorded mention of the castle dates to the 12th century.

Sieges and Attacks: Stirling Castle has seen its share of violence, having been attacked at least 16 times in its history. It withstood a brutal siege by Edward I of England in 1304 and another by Robert the Bruce during the Battle of Bannockburn.

Royal Drama: The 8th Earl of Douglas met a gruesome end here in 1452, invited to dinner and then stabbed to death by James II. Rebels against James VI seized the castle in 1584.

Architectural Splendour and Royal Connections

Great Hall: James IV built the awe-inspiring Great Hall around 1500. Daniel Defoe called it “the noblest I ever saw in Europe.”

Royal Palace: James V’s Renaissance-style royal palace was constructed in the 1540s. His daughter, Mary, was crowned queen of Scotland here when she was just nine months old.

Chapel Royal: Mary’s son, James VI (later James I of England), was baptized in the Chapel Royal, which he later rebuilt in 1594.

Restoration and Heritage

Recent Restoration: The Chapel Royal and the Great Hall were restored in the 1990s, and the entire royal palace underwent painstaking restoration from 2001 to 2011.

Legacy: Stirling Castle stands as a testament to Scotland’s resilience, culture, and indomitable spirit.

So, my friends, let’s raise our virtual goblets to Stirling Castle—a living legend etched in stone and memory.

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

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

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

Monday, September 2, 2024

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

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

Sunday, September 1, 2024

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/

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

Saturday, August 31, 2024

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

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

Friday, August 30, 2024

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

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