This evening, I am posting information on Urquhart Castle which is conveniently situated half way down Loch Ness. In fact, this castle offers the best vantage point to view the Loch and its elusive monster.

Urquhart is pronounced 'Erk-ut' and is one of my favourite visitor attractions in Scotland. I visit the site some five or six times per annum in context of my round Scotland tours.

The visitor centre is well managed. Apart from usual gift shop and refreshment facilities there is a useful introductory film on the castle's history.

The site was fortified from around AD580 when occupied by the Picts. The first conventional castle on the site dates from the 13th century when lands there were granted to Sir Thomas le Durward.. However, the current ruins derive from a rebuild by the Grants in the 16th and 17th centuries. The castle was deliberately blown up in 1692 by Government troops to prevent the castle falling under rebel, Jacobite control.

Chief features of the castle include drawbridge, gatehouse, prison, kiln, water gate, cellars, kitchens and the tower with latter providing a superb aspect for viewing the loch. There is also a replica trebruchet, a catapult type machine for attacking castles before the time of gunpowder and cannon.

Overall, this is an excellent visitor attraction, especially for guests wish to view the famous loch.

Images and video to follow.

Labels: Urquhart Castle

posted by Nigel Cole @ 8:11 AM