List of castles in the Outer Hebrides facts for kids
The Outer Hebrides are a group of beautiful islands off the west coast of Scotland. These islands are full of history, and one of the most exciting parts of their past is their castles! From grand homes to ancient ruins, these castles tell stories of battles, important families, and even famous visitors. Let's explore some of the amazing castles you can find here.
Contents
Discovering Castles in the Outer Hebrides
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle: A Grand Home
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle is a large, beautiful house built in 1865. It's not a traditional fortress, but a grand historic home. It is located on the island of Harris and is still lived in today. The castle is owned by the Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate. Imagine living in a place with so much history!
Ardvourlie Castle: Another Island Gem
Also found on the island of Harris, Ardvourlie Castle was built a little earlier, in 1863. Like Amhuinnsuidhe, it's a historic house rather than a defensive castle. It is privately owned and still occupied. It's another example of the grand homes built in the Outer Hebrides during the 19th century.
Borve Castle: A Medieval Ruin
If you're looking for a true old castle, Borve Castle on Benbecula is a great example. This was once a strong tower house, built way back in the 14th century. Today, it stands as a ruin, but you can still see its ancient walls and imagine what it was like centuries ago.
Calvay Castle: A Royal Hideout
Calvay Castle is on Calvay Island, within Loch Boisdale, South Uist. Its exact age is unknown, but it is now a ruin. This castle has a very exciting story! In June 1746, the famous Bonnie Prince Charlie hid here. He was fleeing from the Duke of Cumberland's soldiers after the Battle of Culloden. It's amazing to think a royal once sought shelter in these very ruins! The local community, through Stòras Uibhist, now looks after this historic site.
Kisimul Castle: The Sea Fortress
Kisimul Castle is one of the most famous castles in the Outer Hebrides. It's a tower house located on a small island in Castlebay, off the coast of Barra. This castle has been restored and looks incredible, almost as if it's floating on the water! It is privately owned but leased to Historic Scotland, which means it's open for visitors to explore. It's a fantastic place to learn about island history.
Lews Castle: A Stornoway Landmark
Lews Castle is a grand 19th-century historic house located in Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis. It's a very important building and is still in use today. The castle is owned by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, which is the local council for the Outer Hebrides. It's a Category A listed building, meaning it's considered very important historically and architecturally.
Ormacleit Castle: A Story of Fire
Ormacleit Castle, located in South Uist, was a historic house built in the early 18th century. Sadly, it is now a ruin. This castle has a dramatic past, as it was burned down in 1715. Its remains stand as a reminder of the events that shaped the islands long ago.
See also
- Castles in Scotland
- List of castles in Scotland
- List of listed buildings in the Outer Hebrides
