The castle
takes the form of an irregular polygon, having eleven sides. This came about as it was
built to fit the shape of the island, on which it formerly stood, within the loch. In
1935, when the water level was being raised for Hydro Electric purposes, the castle was
rebuilt in its present location, at a cost of £4,000.
Dating from the late 13th
century, the castle was built by the Earls of Carrick. In 1306 the English took the
building and Sir Christopher Seton, brother-in-law of the Bruce, was captured. It
withstood a siege in 1335. In 1510 William Craufurd of Leifnoreis captured the castle.
Around 1530 the castle was burned at the command of James V, as part of his plan to subdue
the nobility of Galloway.
On entering the portcullis
arch the courtyard is reached. The gateway is lower in height than the court level, as the
waters of the loch originally entered the castle to allow access by boat. There is a small
postern in the east wall. A large fireplace is located on the west wall. Remains of a
spiral staircase are located near the centre – the later square tower which stood
here was not transferred from the islet. It was probably erected after the burning. |
