What happened to Kilchhorn Castle? Certificate of Scottish Heritage

What happened to Kilchhorn Castle?

It is located at the north-eastern end of Loch Awe in Argyll and Bute, Scotland The captivating ruins of Kilchhorn Castle.

This once-mighty stronghold has witnessed centuries of Scottish history, since the rise of the British Empire Strong Campbell of Glenorchy To give it up eventually.

When you look at its crumbling stones, you can almost hear the whispers of the past, urging you to uncover the secrets of this magical place.

The birth of a stronghold

In the mid-15th century, Sir Colin Campbell, 1st Lord of Glenorchy, laid the foundations for what later became the estate A symbol of his family’s power and influence.

Colin was given the lands of Glenorchy by his father, Duncan Campbell, and set about creating a base that would ensure his loyalty and consolidate his position within Clan Campbell.

The original castle consisted of a five-storey tower, with a courtyard protected by an outer wall.

Imagine the feeling of awe and wonder that filled the hearts of those who first laid eyes on this impressive structure, rising from the small island on which it was built.

Expansion and growth

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As the Campbells of Glenorchy grew in power and influence, so did Kilchurn Castle.

Sir Duncan Campbell, Colin’s son, added Laich Hall, a single-storey dining hall, to the south curtain.

The castle witnessed the tragic loss of Sir Duncan, who fell at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, and is a sad reminder of the sacrifices made by the Campbells in the service of their country.

In the latter half of the sixteenth century, Sir Colin Campbell, 6th Lord, Which increased the greatness of the castle.

He added rooms to the north of the tower house and reshaped the parapet, introducing the distinctive circular corner towers decorated with corbels.

These additions not only improved the castle’s accommodation, but also served as testimony to the Campbell family’s growing prosperity and ambition.

The Rise of Black Duncan

Sir Duncan Campbell, 1st Baronet, known as ‘Black Duncan’, left an indelible mark on Kilchurn Castle.

This ambitious and powerful person rebuilt and enlarged the south range in 1614, building a new range including a chapel in the south-eastern part of the courtyard.

Black Duncan’s improvements to the castle and surrounding farmland at Finlarig, Kilchurn and Balloch Castles demonstrated his vision and determination to Consolidating Campbell’s dominance in the region.

Al-Yaqoubi stronghold

As the tide of history turned, Kilchorn Castle found itself at the heart of political turmoil.

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In 1693, Sir John Campbell, 5th Baronet and newly created Earl of Breadalbane and Holland, The castle was transformed A modern barracks capable of accommodating 200 soldiers.

The move was part of a scheme to pacify the Highlanders, but Breadalbani’s loyalties were complicated. He negotiated with Jacobite rebels while serving William III, and even joined the Jacobite rising of the Earl of March in 1715.

The castle walls echoed in the footsteps of government soldiers during the Jacobite risings of 1715 and 1745, a reminder of the turbulent times that shaped Scotland’s history.

Retreat and abandonment

When the Campbell family moved to the rebuilt Taymouth Castle in 1740, Kilchorne’s fate was sealed.

A devastating lightning strike In 1760, the castle was left badly damaged, and by 1770, it was in ruins. Its once proud walls crumbled Under the weight of time and neglect.

However, even in its ruined state, Kilchorn Castle continues to inspire.

Famed artist JMW Turner immortalized the castle in his paintings during his tours of Scotland in the early 19th century, depicting the haunting beauty of this ancient stronghold.

The castle today

Nowadays, Kilchorn Castle stands as a captivating ruin, a shadow of its former glory, yet it remains a magnet for those drawn to its rich history and stunning location.

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The castle is now in care The historic environment of Scotlandwho opened it to the public during the summer months.

Visitors can reach the castle either by boat from Lochawe Pier or on foot from the A85 near Dalmally. The journey itself is an adventure, as you make your way under the railway bridge that crosses Loch Awe.

However, keep in mind that the castle can sometimes become a temporary island when the water levels in the lake rise, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

As you approach the castle, you’ll be greeted by the vision of the once-mighty tower house, its walls still standing tall despite the passage of time.

The courtyard, where the Campbell family once gathered and planned their next moves, was now open to the sky, a silent witness to the centuries of history that unfolded within its walls.

While the castle’s interior is currently closed for restoration work, visitors can still wander outside and drink in the stunning views of Loch Awe and the surrounding hills.

The sign on the security fence speaks to the ongoing efforts to preserve this precious piece of Scottish heritage, ensuring that future generations will continue to admire its beauty and learn from its stories.

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As you explore the castle grounds, take a moment to reflect on the lives of those who called Kilchorne home. From the ambitious Campbells of Glenorchy to the soldiers who guarded its walls during the Jacobite Risings, each left their mark on this stunning place.

Although the castle may be in ruins, its spirit remains unbroken. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of history, a reminder of the stories that have shaped Scotland, and an invitation to all who visit to become part of its continuing story.

So, as you leave Kilchorn Castle behind you, carry with you the memories of your visit, the stunning beauty of its location, and the knowledge that you too are now part of its enduring heritage.