Carleton Castle

Located in the picturesque village of Lendalfoot, South Ayrshire, Scotland, the ruins of Carleton Castle offer a glimpse into the country’s rich and fascinating history. The 15th-century castle, which once stood five storeys tall, is a Category B Listed Building and a testament to the architecture and engineering of the time.

Carleton Castle, once held by the Cathcarts of Killochan, stood tall and proud overlooking the village and the Games Loup cliffs. Although it has been abandoned for centuries, the tower ruins still stand, minus the parapet and a collapsed section of wall. However, internal plastering and a partially rebuilt section suggest that the castle was used later as a dwelling or store.

The barmakin, or walled courtyard, was surrounded by towers at the angles and sat between two relatively deep glens. The castle served as a crucial guard and control point for the mountain pass and the old Portpatrick road. It was also typical of the other Carrick castles such as Dinvin, Dow Hill, and Duniewick, which were also held by the Cathcarts.

In addition to the castle, a substantial earth mound known as the Little Carleton Fort or Motte also stands across from Little Carleton Farm. The fort was held by the Cathcarts and may have served as the moot hill where the laird’s barony court met. The castle’s name may have derived from ‘carl or churl,’ meaning the serfs’ dwelling, or ‘Cairiltoun,’ meaning the dwelling of the Cairils who emigrated from County Antrim to Carrick in 1095.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Carleton Castle is the legend of Sir John Cathcart and the murdered heiresses. According to the legend, Sir John was in the habit of marrying heiresses to enrich his estate, but each of his brides met their end by falling off the path along the Games Loup cliffs. The story goes that Sir John’s ninth bride, Mary Kennedy of Culzean, outsmarted him and spun him around to cast him off the cliff to his death.

Despite its haunted reputation, Carleton Castle remains a popular tourist destination and a testament to the rich history of Scotland. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful and picturesque stroll, Carleton Castle is well worth a visit. So, if you find yourself in the area, take some time to explore this fascinating piece of Scotland’s past and immerse yourself in its rich history and legend.