Ballikinrain facts for kids
Ballikinrain is a historic castle in central Scotland, located in the Stirling area. This grand 19th-century building used to be a special school. It is found about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) south-east of Balfron and 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) west of Fintry.
Contents
The Castle's Story
Building a Grand Home
Ballikinrain Castle was built in 1868 for a man named Sir Archibald Orr-Ewing. He was a politician who served in the British Parliament. Sir Archibald asked a famous architect, David Bryce, to design his new home. The castle was built in a style called Scottish Baronial. This style often features towers, turrets, and strong stone walls, making it look like an old fortress.
The castle sits near the Ballinkinrain Burn, a small stream. This stream flows down from a hill called Earl's Seat and creates several small waterfalls as it goes.
Changes Over the Years
In June 1913, a big fire damaged the castle. It caused a lot of harm, but the castle was carefully rebuilt over three years and finished in 1916.
After the fire, Ballikinrain Castle was used for different purposes. For a while, it hosted poor children from Glasgow, giving them a chance to enjoy fresh air. It was also a hotel for a short time.
During World War II, a girls' boarding school called St. Hilda's moved into the castle. They stayed there even after the war because their original buildings were not ready. The castle is now recognized as a special historic building, called a "category B listed building."
Between 1950 and 1965, the castle grounds had a popular camping and caravan site. It even had a shop and an outdoor swimming pool filled with fresh spring water.
Ballikinrain School
For many years, Ballikinrain Castle was home to Ballikinrain School. This school helped young people aged 6 to 16 who were facing social, emotional, or behavioral challenges. The school provided both care and education. Many students lived at the school, while others attended during the day.
The school closed at the beginning of 2021. This decision was made due to new government policies and a better understanding of how to help young people. CrossReach, the organization that ran the school, now offers support through community children's houses and a different school called Erskine Waterfront Campus. You can find more information about their current work online.
What's Next for the Castle?
In January 2024, plans were approved for Ballikinrain Castle to become a private home again. The old stables on the property will be turned into houses. Also, two old cottages in the grounds will be taken down and replaced with new ones.
