Duntrune Castle

Nestled on the north side of Loch Crinan, across from the quaint village of Crinan in Argyll, Scotland lies Duntrune Castle, a historic treasure that tells a story of Scotland’s rich past. The castle is considered to be one of the oldest continuously occupied castles on mainland Scotland, with a rich history that dates back to the 13th century.

Duntrune Castle was originally built by the MacDougall clan, who also built several other castles in the area, including the MacDougall stronghold of Dunollie Castle near Oban. The castle was eventually taken by the Clan Campbell, who ruled over the region for several centuries. In the 17th century, the rival MacDonalds, under Alasdair Mac Colla, laid siege to the castle, but it remained in the hands of the Campbells. The Campbells sold the castle in 1792 to the Malcolms of Poltalloch, and it is now owned by Robin Neill Malcolm, the current clan chief of the Clan Malcolm.

The curtain wall of the castle dates back to the 13th century, making it a unique piece of Scotland’s history. The tower house, which forms the main part of the castle, is from the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the architectural style of that era. The castle underwent renovations in 1954, which helped to preserve its historical significance and protect its ancient walls for future generations.

Duntrune Castle has also been a source of inspiration for popular culture. The gateposts of Skyfall Lodge, James Bond’s childhood home in the film “Skyfall,” were modeled after those at Duntrune Castle. A photograph of the castle also appears in the original album inner sleeve art of the Blue Öyster Cult album “Imaginos.”

Duntrune Castle is not just a piece of history, but a piece of art, a symbol of Scotland’s rich heritage and a testament to the strength and resilience of its people. It is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by visitors who are looking to explore Scotland’s rich history and culture.