Introduction

This evening, I am posting information on Buchanan Castle. This is a romantic ruin near to the village of Drymen and about 17 miles (27km) north of Glasgow. The location is also within easy reach of Loch Lomond. Hikers on the long-distance, West Highland Way usually pass through Drymen and/or overnight there.

History of Buchanan Castle

The estate in which the castle sits belonged to the Lairds of Buchanan from the 13th century until 1682. Thereafter it was sold to James Graham, 3rd Marquess of Montrose and thereafter became a Graham family property.

The original Buchanan-era castle burned down in 1852. It was duly replaced by the current building built for the 4th Duke of Montrose in 1854. The replacement building became the official seat of Clan Graham. It was designed by William Burn in Scottish baronial style. Clan Graham can trace back to William de Graham in 1125 and continues to the present Duke of Montrose.

The Castle was sold in 1925 and was used as a hospital in WW2. Here, leading Nazi,  Rudolf Hess was treated in 1941 after his forced landing near Eaglesham.

The roof of the Castle was removed in 1954 and thereafter the property fell into decline. However, the remaining walls are believed to be in sound condition.

Within the former grounds of the Castle a private housing estate has been developed. A James Braid designed golf course is close by.

An intriguing and photogenic ruin which will be of interest to photographers.

More information

Please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland for information on Scottish castles, Loch Lomond and much more. ISBN of the publication is 978-1-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.