Castles of Clan Gunn

Gunn’s Castle (Clyth Castle)
Gunn’s Castle, also known as Clyth Castle, was a medieval stronghold of Clan Gunn located on a rocky sea-stack near Clyth in Caithness. It served as a defensive refuge during the clan’s frequent feuds and is believed to date back to the clan’s Norse-influenced early history. The site was highly strategic, surrounded by cliffs and accessible only by a narrow land bridge. Little remains today beyond the foundations, but its location continues to evoke the rugged resilience of the clan. The castle played a central role in the Gunns’ coastal defense network.

Halberry Castle
Halberry Castle was the principal seat of the Chiefs of Clan Gunn in the 15th century. Situated on a dramatic headland at Halberry Head near Lybster, it was home to George Gunn, known as the “Crowner of Caithness,” until his death in 1464 during a battle with Clan Keith. The site included a rectangular tower and walled courtyard protected by cliffs and a defensive ditch. Though only grassy foundations remain, it once symbolized the clan’s authority in Caithness. The castle is an iconic part of Gunn clan history and folklore.

Dirlot Castle
Dirlot Castle, located near Westerdale in Caithness, was held by Clan Gunn during the 15th century. Originally built by the Cheynes, it came into Gunn hands before being seized by rival clans in the late 1400s. The small tower stood on a rocky outcrop by the River Thurso, providing a commanding defensive position. Only the base of the tower and a few wall fragments survive today. Its brief tenure as a Gunn possession reflects the volatile nature of Highland clan politics.

Latheron Castle
Latheron Castle was a southern Caithness stronghold historically associated with Clan Gunn. Although little is known of its early structure, it was one of several residences used by the Gunn chiefs before passing to the Sinclairs in the 17th century. Located near Dunbeath, the original structure was eventually replaced by Latheron House in the 18th century. Only low walls and earthworks remain on the site. The location marked an important point of control for the clan’s southern territory.

Kinbrace Castle (site)
Kinbrace Castle, now lost to time, once stood near the village of Kinbrace on the border of Caithness and Sutherland. It is tied to early Norse and Gunn history, with connections to Viking figures and later clan leaders. Legend records it as the place where Lady Frakark, a Norse noblewoman, was burned in revenge by raiders. Later held by the Gunns, it formed part of their inland presence in Sutherland. No visible remains exist today, but the site lives on in clan tradition.

Castles Loosely Associated with Clan Gunn

Ackergill Castle
Ackergill Castle, located just north of Wick, was historically held by Clan Keith but became deeply linked to Clan Gunn through the tragic story of Helen Gunn. Abducted by a Keith laird in the 15th century, she is said to have leapt to her death from the tower to escape captivity. This act sparked a violent feud between the two clans. The castle’s imposing five-story tower remains standing today, expanded over the centuries into a baronial residence. Though never a Gunn seat, it remains central to their legacy.

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, situated on the cliffs of Noss Head, was the seat of the Sinclairs, longtime rivals of the Gunns. In the 16th century, Clan Gunn clashed violently with the Sinclairs, including the notable 1586 Battle of Allt Camhna where a Sinclair chieftain was killed. The castle consists of two linked structures: Castle Girnigoe from the 15th century and the later Sinclair additions. Today, its ruins overlook the North Sea, a haunting reminder of clan conflict. Though never held by the Gunns, it was a battleground in their story.

Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle, near Golspie in Sutherland, is the historic seat of the Earls of Sutherland. Clan Gunn was allied with the Sutherlands at several points in history, including in their victory over the Mackays at the Battle of Torran Dubh in 1517. The castle dates to the 13th century and was transformed in the 19th century into a French-style château with turrets and gardens. With 189 rooms, it is one of Scotland’s largest inhabited castles. Its historical ties to Clan Gunn stem from strategic alliances and intermarriage.

References

Coventry, M. (2010). The Castles of Scotland (5th ed.). Musselburgh: Goblinshead.
MacKinnon, C. (2015). Highland Fortresses: The Clans, the Castles, and the Conflicts. Edinburgh: Caledonia Publishing.
Tabraham, C. (2005). Scotland’s Castles. London: Batsford.
Historic Environment Scotland. (n.d.). Castle Records. Retrieved March 27, 2025.
Watson, A. (1905). Place Names of Caithness and Sutherland. Aberdeen: University Press.
National Records of Scotland. (n.d.). Clan Documents and Charters.
Gunn Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Clan Gunn History. Retrieved March 27, 2025.