Introduction

This afternoon I am focusing on a fascinating Scottish castle named Castle Tioram which receives few visitors. This castle is located at a remote spot some thirty-six miles south of Mallaig on Scotland’s west coast.

(Core of information herein has been sourced from an article on the Undiscovered Scotland site.)

Information on Castle Tioram

Access: Although only 36 miles from Mallaig the journey is arduous because much of the route entails single track roads.

Condition of the ruins: Very dangerous with main entrance gateway blocked. Visitors should take extreme care.

History: The site was probably fortified during the Iron-Age but the extant ruins likely date from the 13th century.Over the succeeding centuries many changes have taken place.

Early records point to ownership by Christina MacRuari then her half brother Ruari followed by his daughter, Amy.

Amy may have improved the fortifications and accommodation prior to her death. On Amy’s demise the property passed to Ranald who became Chieftain of Clan Macdonald of Clanranald. This transfer to Ranald was confirmed by King Robert II in 1373.

In common with many clan leaders in the Highlands and Islands the Clanranalds refused to submit to the Scottish Crown. Attempt by the Crown to take the castle by force in 1554 were thwarted by clan chieftan, John of Moidart.

The Clanranalds remained in possession of the castle during the 17th century. During the 1600s further improvements to the defences and accommodation were undertaken. However, in 1685 Allan of Moidart, 14th Chief moved out to a less remote location.

During the 1715 Jacobite uprising the castle was occupied by a contingent of government troops.However, Allan of Moidart recaptured the castle before meeting his death at the Battle of Sheriffmuir.

Despite supporting the losing Jacobite side in the 1745 uprising, the Clanranalds managed to retain ownership of the castle.

Repair work was undertaken in in the late 19th century. In the 20th century various ownership changes took place culminating with a purchase for GBP300,000 by Anta Estates. The new owner then submitted, an ultimately unsuccesful application, for permission to convert the castle to a residence.

Video clips

Castle interior

Castle setting

More information for the visitor

Thew publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes information on Mallaig and Scottish Castles. ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.