Introduction

This evening, I am posting information on Lochranza Castle, an abandoned ruin situated in the village of Lochranza. The village sits on the north coast of the Isle of Arran, off Scotland’s West Coast.

Landscape view of Lochranza and Castle

Information on Lochranza Castle

Summary information on the castle as follows:

• Dates from the 13th century when it was owned by the MacSweens. May have been built by Dugald MacSween of Skipness.
• Probably not a late medieval Tower House.
• In 1262, King Alexander III granted the castle and its lands to Walter Stewart, the Earl of Menteith.
• By 1371, the castle was the property of Robert II. when it may have been used as a royal hunting lodge.
• During the 1490s, James IV used the castle in his campaign against the Lord of the Isles and the Clan MacDonald.
• In 1614 it was occupied by James VI and in the 1650s it was used by Cromwell’s forces.
• Acquired by the powerful Hamilton family by 1705.
• Subsequently sold it to the Blackwood-Davidson family who used it as their principal seat.
• During 18th century the castle was abandoned and fell into disrepair.
• The castle is now in the care of Historic Environment Scotland.

Lochranza Castle, Arran, Scotland.

Video clip of Lochranza and Castle

More information

The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes sections on wildlife, islands, castles and much more. ISBN is 978-1-9161`332-0-4. Also available via Kindle..