Knock Castle

Knock Castle, also known as Caisteal Chamuis, is a ruined castle located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. It is located on the east coast of Sleat, about 5 miles (8 km) north of Armadale, south of Cnoc Uaine, and on the eastern side of Knock Bay. The castle was originally constructed by the Clan MacLeod in the 15th century, but was later captured by the Clan MacDonald. The MacDonalds remodeled the castle in 1596, but it was abandoned in 1689 and has since fallen into a state of decay. Most of the stones from the castle were used for nearby buildings.

According to local ghostlore, the castle is haunted by a Green Lady or glaistig, a ghost associated with the fortunes of the family who occupy the castle. The ghost is said to appear happy if good news is coming, and will weep if there is bad news. The castle is also said to have had a gruagach, a spirit that is said to have a particular concern with caring for livestock.

Visitors to Knock Castle should be aware that the castle is not maintained and is in a state of heavy decay. The old masonry work can be unstable, so visitors should proceed with caution. The castle is surrounded on three sides by a steep cliff, and the footing can be slippery during rains. To reach the castle, visitors must follow a faint trail that starts at a private road off the A851, passing through a livestock gate and a collapsed farm building. The trail then leads across a river to the castle. The easiest approach is by following the trail upward after passing the farm building. The ruins of what appears to be a blacksmith’s forge can be found on the right side of the trail after the farm building. The castle is a scheduled monument, which means it is protected by law and should be respected as such.