Airds Castle facts for kids
Airds Castle is an old, ruined castle in Scotland. It is located near Carradale in Kintyre, a part of Argyll and Bute. The castle sits on top of a rocky hill. From this spot, it looks out over Kilbrannan Sound towards the Isle of Arran. It was built a long time ago, in the Middle Ages.
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History of Airds Castle
Early Owners: Lord of the Isles
For many years, until the late 1400s, Airds Castle belonged to the Lord of the Isles. This was a powerful ruler who controlled many islands and parts of the west coast of Scotland. The castle was important because it helped protect the border between the Lord of the Isles' lands and the King of Scotland's lands. After this time, the castle came under the control of the King.
Royal Grants and New Families
In 1498, King James IV of Scotland gave Airds Castle to a man named Sir Adam Reid. Sir Adam was a landowner from Ayrshire. He also received other properties in the same area.
By the mid-1500s, the land where the castle stood became part of a larger area called the barony of Bar. This area was in North Kintyre. At this time, the castle was owned by the MacDonalds of Dunnyveg, another important Scottish family. However, by 1605, the Reid family of Barskimming once again owned the castle.
Protecting the Past
In 1972, Airds Castle was given a special status. It was named a scheduled ancient monument. This means it is an important historical site that is protected by law. This helps make sure the remains of the castle are preserved for future generations to learn from.
