Castle Tarbet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Castle Tarbert |
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| Fidra, East Lothian, Scotland | |
Castle Tarbert
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 Castle Tarbert
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| Coordinates | 56°04′15″N 2°46′51″W / 56.07071238°N 2.780758851°W |
| Site information | |
| Open to the public |
Yes |
| Condition | Ruin |
| Site history | |
| Built | c.12th century |
Castle Tarbert is an old ruined castle located on the small island of Fidra. This island is found in East Lothian, Scotland, within the Firth of Forth. Today, only a few parts of the castle remain, showing its long history.
History of Castle Tarbert
Building the First Castle
A castle was first built on Fidra Island in the 12th century. A powerful noble named John de Vaux, who was the Baron of Dirleton, had it constructed. This castle was an important stronghold for his family.
Monks and a New Home
Later, in 1220, the castle, its chapel, and the entire island were given away. William de Vaux, another member of the family, granted them to a group of monks. These were the Premonstratensian monks from Dryburgh Abbey.
The de Vaux family decided to build a new, larger castle. This new castle, called Dirleton Castle, was built on the mainland. It replaced Castle Tarbert as their main home and fortress.
The Last Mentions
Castle Tarbert was mentioned for the last time in records from 1621. At that time, it was referred to as the "Old Castle of Eldbottle." Over time, the castle fell into ruin. Today, it stands as a historic landmark on the island of Fidra.
