Balcraig Castle facts for kids

Balcraig Castle was an old castle built on land given to a family called the Oliphants. This happened around the year 1317, thanks to King Robert the Bruce.

Where Was Balcraig Castle?

Balcraig Castle was located near a place called Hatton Hill. It was about half a mile south of the village of Newtyle in Angus, Scotland. This area is part of the Sidlaw Hills. Today, you won't see much of the castle. There's only a flat area in a field where it used to stand. The castle's spot was very important. It helped protect a path through the Sidlaw Hills.

The Castle's Story

In 1317, King Robert the Bruce gave land to Sir William Oliphant, Lord of Aberdalgie. This land included areas like Newtyle and Balcraig. We don't know exactly when Balcraig Castle was built.

Later, in 1575, a new castle called Hatton Castle was built nearby. This new castle became the main home for the Oliphant family. Balcraig Castle was still standing around 1590. It even appeared on a map made by Timothy Pont around that time.

Some people thought Balcraig Castle was made of wood. However, about 50 years ago, large stones were found where the castle once stood. These stones were big enough to be the foundations of a strong stone castle. There are also old records that mention the castle at Newtyle being destroyed. This suggests it was a solid structure, not just wood.