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Inverness Castle, with a history dating back to 1057, has witnessed a series of transformations. Initially built by Malcolm III of Scotland, the first castle faced partial destruction by King Robert I in 1307. In 1428, James I summoned clan chiefs, leading to arrests and executions at the castle.
Over the centuries, the castle changed hands and underwent sieges in 1562, 1649, 1650, 1689, 1715, and 1746. Notably, Mary, Queen of Scots, played a role during the sieges of 1562. In 1619, it was reported in poor condition, but repairs were delayed.
The current structure, built on the original site, showcases 19th-century architecture. The southern block, designed by William Burn, incorporates the old County Buildings and was completed in 1836. The north block, designed by Thomas Brown II, functions as a prison and courthouse, completed in 1848. Joseph Mitchell designed the bastioned enclosing walls.
After serving as the meeting place for Inverness-shire County Council, the building continued its judicial role until 2020 when Inverness Sheriff Court hearings moved to the Inverness Justice Centre.
Due to extensive renovation and remodelling the castle and grounds were closed to the public in 2021. The site is scheduled to re-open to the public in 2025.
Built in 1428, Dunbeath Castle on a rocky peninsula initially belonged to the Earl of Caithness. Acquired by Clan Sinclair in 1620, they replaced the original structure with a four-storey tower. In the 1630s, John Sinclair extensively remodeled the castle. During the Wars of the Three Kingdoms in 1650, it faced an attack by Royalist forces but was later recaptured. In the 17th century, Sir William Sinclair further remodeled the castle, and later modifications were made in 1853 and 1881 by architect David Bryce. Owned by the Sinclair family for 325 years, it changed hands several times before being sold in 1997 to the current owner, Stuart Wyndham Murray-Threipland. The property, including a 13-bedroom castle and 20 estate houses, was listed for sale again in 2023, with only the gardens open to the public by appointment.
An important thing to note with Dunbeath Castle is that it is privately held and not open to the public. They do however by appointment only allow the public to view the gardens which I hear are impressive. Additionally they also have lodges and cottages for rent and the property is available for weddings and events.
The exact origin of Duffus Castle is uncertain, with initial thoughts of a 12th-century construction by Harald Maddadson, Jarl of Caithness and Orkney, but the surviving structure suggests a 14th-century date. In the early 14th century, Reginald le Chen of Inverugie and Duffus owned the castle. It passed to Nicholas Sutherland through the marriage of Reginald's daughter Mary in 1345.
In the 15th century, Duffus Castle transferred to the Oliphant family through the marriage of Christian, Alexander Sutherland's daughter. In 1526, Andrew Oliphant sold the castle to his uncle, Lord Oliphant. The castle was besieged in 1569 by John Sinclair, Master of Caithness, during a conflict with Laurence Oliphant, Lord Oliphant.
In 1644, Duffus Castle came into the possession of the Sinclair family and later, in 1690, was sold to the Dunbars of Hempriggs by Lord Glenorchy after the death of George Sinclair, Earl of Caithness. The Dunbars retained ownership until 1910.
Drive along a bumpy road before you reach Wick and you will find the ruins of Old Wick Castle. Despite the castle part of the castle collapsing, it remains an impressive sight against the skyline. There are information signs on the walk up to the castle which you can only imagine how they lived all those years ago.
Castle Girnigoe, initially built by William Sinclair, 2nd Earl of Caithness, between 1476 and 1496, saw various historical events unfold. Olave Sinclair, the foud of Shetland, was brought there in 1573 after a stroke. In 1577, George Sinclair, 4th Earl of Caithness, imprisoned his son John Sinclair, Master of Caithness, leading to a tragic demise.
The castle expanded in 1606 with the addition of Castle Sinclair, connected to the original by a drawbridge. George Sinclair, 5th Earl of Caithness, sought to rename it Castle Sinclair, but both names persisted.
Robert Sinclair describes Girnigoe as a 5-storey L-plan tower house with a secret chamber in the kitchen vault. In 1672, the castle passed to John Campbell of Glenorchy due to heavy debts. After George Sinclair's death in 1680, Campbell claimed the title Earl of Caithness, leading to the Battle of Altimarlach.
Despite Campbell's initial victory, George Sinclair of Keiss, supported by firearms and artillery, laid siege to Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, reclaiming it. Sinclair of Keiss, later recognized as the 7th Earl of Caithness, regained his inheritance through legal means in 1681. Campbell of Glenorchy was compensated with the title Earl of Breadalbane.
This castle site is free entry, although there is a donation box on the gate. Reconstruction of the ruins aims to make Castle Sinclair the first castle on the North Coast 500 to be wheelchair accessible.
Built in the late 16th or early 17th century by George Sinclair, 5th Earl of Caithness, Keiss Castle's existence dates back to at least 1623. The 7th Earl passed away there in 1698, and by 1700, the castle was reportedly in ruins. In 1726, it was described as being repaired, with an adjacent newly built house. In the early 18th century, Sir William Sinclair, 2nd Baronet of Dunbeath, acquired the estate, making Keiss the family seat in 1752.
Around 1755, a new house was constructed, but financial difficulties forced its sale in 1765 to the Sinclairs of Ulbster. The mansion underwent alterations by David Bryce in 1860 under the instructions of Col. K. Macleay, adopting the Scottish baronial style. It was then sold to the Duke of Portland in 1866. The Category B listed baronial mansion includes the Walled garden, gate lodge, and gate piers with cast-iron carriage gates, all part of the 1860 alterations.
A newer castle was built in 1755 and this old tower was abandoned. You can get there 2 different ways. First option is to park in town around highstreet near Keiss Harbor. You would then walk on the beach via a coastal path to the castle. Alternatively you can park by the cemetery and walk across some fields (We did this and in hindsight I would not recommend it)
Barrogill Castle, believed to have been built between 1566 and 1572 by George Sinclair, 4th Earl of Caithness, underwent expansions and alterations over the centuries. Passing through different owners, it became semi-derelict by the mid-20th century.
In 1952, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother purchased the estate, renaming it the Castle of Mey. She initiated extensive restoration, converting it into her holiday home. The Queen Mother visited regularly until her death in 2002. In 1996, she handed the property to the Castle of Mey Trust, which opened the castle and gardens to the public.
The Castle of Mey Trust, established in 1996, managed the property with the goal of securing its future, promoting historical education, and benefiting the local community. After the Queen Mother's passing, the Trust continued to open the castle to the public during the summer months, generating revenue.
On January 1, 2019, stewardship passed to The Prince's Foundation, with Charles III as its president. The Foundation aimed to preserve the castle, promote education, and benefit the community.
Under The Prince's Foundation, Granary Lodge, a 10-bedroom bed and breakfast, opened in May 2019, utilizing eco-friendly practices. Profits from Granary Lodge contribute to maintaining the estate.
As of January 2023, the castle tearoom is open to the public every Tuesday until March as a warming center, part of an initiative by The Prince's Foundation.
Located on west of John O’Groats, Canisbay, Caithness
Castle Varrich, the ancient seat of the Clan Mackay, is believed to be over a thousand years old. Constructed on the site of a possible 14th-century Mackay castle, it may have been built atop an existing Norse fort. The walls, made of metamorphosed sandstone blocks without mortar, are remarkably well-preserved.
The castle, with walls around 1.4 meters thick, consists of two floors and an attic. The ground floor, likely used for stables, had an entrance on the north wall. No stairs between floors suggest the ground floor may have been for animals. The upper floor, accessed from the south side, probably used a ladder or removable stair. A window and fireplace on this floor have collapsed. Later, the clan chief's seat moved to Tongue House.
Varrich Castle offers scenic views of Ben Loyal and Ben Hope. There's a marked footpath from Tongue to the castle, allowing visitors to explore this historic site.
Consisting of two floors plus an attic, it is far from the largest castle on the North Coast 500. However the condition of the remains are quite astounding given the 1000 years of aging. You can reach the ruins of Castle Varrich by a relatively easy, one hour walk from the town of Tongue.
Follow the signposts and you can’t miss it. As you enter Tongue, you will be able to see the ancient ruins sitting above the Kyle of Tongue. In 2017, a spiral staircase and viewing platform were installed to give visitors access to the stunning views over the Kyle of Tongue and surrounding mountains.
Ardvreck Castle, built in the 15th century by the MacLeods of Assynt, replaced Assynt Castle. It is known for its connection to the surrender of James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose, to Covenant forces in 1650 after the Battle of Carbisdale. The details of this event are unclear, with conflicting accounts suggesting either loyal assistance or betrayal by MacLeod, Laird of Assynt.
In 1672, Clan Mackenzie attacked and captured Ardvreck Castle, leading to their control of Assynt lands. In 1726, they built a modern manor house nearby called Calda House, which was destroyed by fire in 1737. Both Ardvreck Castle and Calda House now stand as ruins and are designated as scheduled monuments.
As you drive along the winding A837, you will see these ruins sitting proudly above the glistening waters.
This was a few landmarks mentioned in presentation. Still, you can see way bigger amount of castles on your way. And not just castles. Museums with rich history, scenic landscapes, like Applecross. Or even take time on taking a rest in the outstanding villages with charming streets.
So, prepare yourself, go even with your family or friends and enjoy the ride across Scottish highlands