Bathgate Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bathgate Castle |
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| Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland | |
 Bathgate Castle
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| Coordinates | 55°53′41″N 3°37′53″W / 55.8948°N 3.6314°W |
| Site information | |
| Condition | Ruined |
| Site history | |
| Built | c. 12th century |
Bathgate Castle was an old castle located near Bathgate in West Lothian, Scotland. It was a special type of castle called a motte-and-bailey castle. This means it had a large earth mound (the motte) with a wooden or stone tower on top, and a walled courtyard (the bailey) below.
The castle was left empty after the year 1327. Today, only the earth mound (the motte) and some other earthworks remain. Because of its historical importance, it was officially named a scheduled monument in 1961 by Historic Environment Scotland. This means it's a protected historical site.
The Story of Bathgate Castle
Bathgate Castle was once the main building, or caput, of the area known as the barony of Bathgate. Imagine it as the most important place in that region.
A Royal Connection
This castle became very special in 1314. It was given as part of a dowry to Marjorie Bruce when she married Walter, High Steward of Scotland. A dowry was like a gift of property or money that a bride's family gave to her husband when they got married. Marjorie Bruce was the daughter of the famous Scottish king, Robert the Bruce.
Walter, the High Steward of Scotland, lived at Bathgate Castle and sadly passed away there in 1327. After his death, it seems the castle was no longer used and was left to fall into ruin.
Where is it Now?
Today, the remains of Bathgate Castle can be found within a golf course. It's a quiet reminder of a long-ago time in Scottish history.
