Knock Castle (Isle of Skye) facts for kids
Knock Castle, also called Caisteal Chamuis or Castle Camus, is an old castle ruin. It was once a strong fort for the MacDonald family. You can find it on the east coast of Sleat, about 5 miles (8 km) north of Armadale. This area is on the Isle of Skye in Scotland.
Today, the castle is mostly ruins. You can still see parts of a 15th-century tower. One window still stands quite tall. There are also signs of other buildings that were added later.
History of Knock Castle
The Clan MacLeod first built Knock Castle. Later, the MacDonald family took control of it in the late 1400s. The castle's ownership changed hands many times between these two powerful clans.
The MacDonalds updated the castle in 1596. But by 1689, the castle was left empty. It began to fall apart. Many of its stones were then used to build other structures nearby.
Castle Legends and Spirits
People say that Knock Castle is haunted by a "Green Lady." She is a type of ghost called a glaistig. This spirit is linked to the family who lives in the castle.
If good news is coming, the ghost will appear happy. If there is bad news, she will weep. The castle is also said to have had a gruagach. This is a spirit that cares for farm animals.
Visiting Knock Castle Today
You cannot drive directly to Knock Castle. There is a private road off the A851. This road leads down to some farm buildings.
To find the castle trail, follow this road to a gate for livestock. Look closely for a small wooden gate covered with moss. It is hidden in the plants on the right side of the path.
On the other side of this gate, you will find a faint trail. This path will lead you across a river to the castle. You will pass an old farm building with a red roof that has fallen down. The easiest way to reach the castle is to follow the trail uphill after this building. On your right, after the farm building, you will see what looks like the remains of an old blacksmith's shop.
The castle is very old and falling apart. It is not looked after. Visitors should be careful when exploring. The old stone walls can be unstable. The castle is also surrounded by very steep cliffs on three sides. The ground can be slippery when it rains.
The ruins of Knock Castle are a scheduled monument. This means they are protected by law.
See also
In Spanish: Castillo de Knock (Isla de Skye) para niños
