The Castles of Oban, Lorn and the Isles
The historical significance of the ancient region of Oban, Lorn & the Isles is profound. Scattered along its magnificent shoreline, you can discover dilapidated castles and fortified residences situated in delightfully picturesque settings. Experience the captivating fortifications, behold the breathtaking scenery of Argyll, and delve into Scotland’s rich history.
Experience the thrill of visiting one of Oban’s numerous castles, while also engaging in a leisurely stroll and perhaps a picnic. This is an excellent opportunity to engage in physical activity and immerse yourself in authentic Scottish culture.
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Hotels, Guest Houses and Self-catering in Oban
Dunstaffnage Castle
Location: Dunstaffnage Castle, Dunbeg, By Oban PA37 1PZ
Dunstaffnage Castle is strategically positioned on a rocky promontory, providing panoramic views over the Firth of Lorn in close proximity to Oban. Constructed circa 1220 by Duncan MacDougall, it served as the previous fortress of the ‘Kings of the Isles’. Robert the Bruce laid siege to this place during the Wars of Independence, and in 1746, Flora MacDonald was detained here before being transferred to the Tower of London for assisting Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape.
Observe with admiration the imposing curtain wall, one of the oldest surviving castle structures in Scotland. The tower house, which is the central structure, has several levels and rooms. Climbing up to the battlements is highly worthwhile in order to fully grasp the castle’s exceptional strategic location (and to relish the scenic views!).
Dunollie Castle
Location: Dunollie Museum, Castle & Grounds, Oban PA34 5TT
Dunollie Castle is a diminutive runied fortress situated on a hill 1 mile to the north of Oban. The castle was originally constructed during the Early Middle Ages when Dunollie served as the royal hub of the Cenél Loairn within the kingdom of Dál Riata. According to the Irish annals, “Dun Ollaigh” experienced three instances of attack or destruction, specifically in the years 686, 698, and 701. After its destruction in 701, the site was reconstructed in 714 by Selbach mac Ferchair, the King of Dál Riata, who is credited with its destruction. Archaeological excavations conducted in the 1970s indicate that this early fortification was deserted at some point during the 10th century. In the 12th century, the region surrounding Dunollie became a constituent of the semi-autonomous Kingdom of the Isles, which was governed by Somerled. Upon his demise, the MacDougalls assumed the title of Lords of Lorne. The MacDougall lands of Lorne were later confiscated and granted to the Campbells, although Dunollie and other properties were later reclaimed in the 14th century.
The ownership of Dunollie Castle now lies with The MacDougall of Dunollie Preservation Trust, a philanthropic organisation established with the purpose of safeguarding the historical structures and artefacts housed within this ancestral location. The trust manages the Dunollie Museum, Castle & Grounds, which are accessible to the public as a visitor attraction and social enterprise.
Castle Stalker
Castle Stalker is a four-storey tower house located on a tidal islet on Loch Laich, an inlet off Loch Linnhe. It is situated approximately 2.5 kilometers north-east of Port Appin and is visible from the A828 road about midway between Oban and Glencoe. The name “Stalker” comes from the Gaelic Stalcaire, meaning “hunter” or “falconer”. The castle is one of the best preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland and is a Category A listed building.
The initial castle was possibly a small fortress constructed circa 1320 by Clan MacDougall, who at that time held the title of Lords of Lorn. By approximately 1388, the Stewarts assumed control of the Lordship of Lorn, and it is widely believed that they constructed the castle in its current configuration during the 16th century. King James IV of Scotland, who was a relative of the Stewarts, visited the castle. Around 1620, a bet made while intoxicated led to the castle being transferred to Clan Campbell. Following several transfers of ownership between these clans, the Campbells ultimately relinquished the castle around 1840. Charles Stewart of Achara purchased the castle in 1908 and conducted essential preservation efforts. Lt. Col. D. R. Stewart Allward obtained the castle in 1965 and meticulously restored it over a period of approximately ten years.
Gylen Castle
Gylen Castle is a dilapidated fortress, specifically a tower house, situated at the southern tip of Kerrera Island. The location is positioned on a point of land that provides a view of the Firth of Lorne. The castle, constructed in 1582 by the Clan MacDougall, is renowned for its modest yet remarkable architecture. It was strategically situated to command the southern approaches to Oban by the narrow Sound of Kerrera.
Gylen Castle was only inhabited for a relatively brief duration. In 1647, during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, the Covenanters led by General Leslie besieged and set fire to it. The castle underwent comprehensive restoration in May 2006, which was funded by a £300,000 grant from Historic Scotland and an additional £200,000 contributed by Clan MacDougall members worldwide.
The castle is currently without a roof and in a state of ruin, yet it spans the entire width of the southwestern extremity of a tall, rocky peninsula located at the southernmost point of Kerrera Island. The site was designated as a scheduled monument in 1931.
There is an excellent 11 km walk that explores the southern half of the beautiful Isle of Kerrera. Easily reached by a short ferry ride from just south of Oban, the walk has fine views out to other islands and visits Gylen Castle.
Kilchurn Castle
Kilchurn Castle stands on the northeastern end of Loch Awe, about 20 miles northeast of Oban. Kilchurn Castle is known for its stunning setting on the banks of Loch Awe and its rich history.
- History: Kilchurn Castle was constructed in the mid-15th century by Sir Colin Campbell, a prominent member of the Campbell clan. The castle served as the stronghold and residence of the Campbells of Glenorchy. Over the centuries, the castle underwent several expansions and modifications.
- Architecture: The castle is situated on a rocky peninsula that juts into Loch Awe. It consists of a tower house and additional buildings enclosed by a curtain wall. Kilchurn underwent various phases of construction, and its architecture reflects both medieval and Renaissance influences. The castle is particularly picturesque, especially when viewed against the backdrop of Loch Awe and the surrounding mountains.
- Military Use: Kilchurn Castle played a role in various conflicts, including the Wars of Independence. It was strategically positioned to control the movement of people and goods along Loch Awe. Despite its military significance, the castle was partially destroyed by lightning in the 18th century, leading to its abandonment.
- Abandonment and Preservation: After the lightning strike in the 18th century, Kilchurn Castle was left in a state of ruin. The Campbell family decided not to rebuild it, and it became a picturesque and atmospheric ruin. In the 20th century, efforts were made to preserve the castle, and it is now in the care of Historic Environment Scotland.
- Visitor Information: Kilchurn Castle is a popular attraction for visitors interested in Scottish history and medieval architecture. While it is a ruin, it offers stunning views of Loch Awe and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and take in the scenic beauty of the location.