Castles of Clan MacKinnon

Dun Ringill
Dun Ringill, on the Strathaird Peninsula of the Isle of Skye, was the original stronghold of Clan MacKinnon. Built atop an Iron Age fort, it served as the clan’s seat for centuries before being abandoned in the 16th century. The site overlooks Loch Slapin and includes stone wall remains, a gateway, and signs of medieval habitation. According to tradition, the legendary 4th chief, Findanus, lived here with his Norse wife known as “Saucy Mary.” Though now a ruin, Dun Ringill remains central to MacKinnon identity.

Caisteal Maol (Castle Moil)
Castle Moil, also known as Dunakin, became the principal seat of the MacKinnon chiefs in the 16th century. Located at Kyleakin on Skye, it guarded the strait between Skye and the mainland. The castle is associated with the story of Findanus and his Norse wife, who allegedly strung a chain across the water to collect tolls from passing ships. The keep was burned and abandoned in the early 1600s. Its distinctive stone shell still overlooks the sea.

Dùn Ara Castle
Dùn Ara Castle, on the Isle of Mull, was the seat of a MacKinnon cadet branch from the 14th to the 17th century. Situated on a coastal hill near Glengorm, it provided maritime defense and access to trade routes. The remains include curtain walls, a courtyard, and traces of outbuildings. It was used until 1642 when the Mull MacKinnons relocated or faded from prominence. Today, it is an overgrown ruin with scenic views over the Atlantic.

Castles Loosely Associated with Clan MacKinnon

Duart Castle
Duart Castle on Mull was originally part of MacKinnon-held territory before being transferred to the MacLeans in the 14th century through marriage. The MacKinnons reportedly built an early fort on the site prior to the construction of the current castle. Duart became the seat of Clan MacLean but marks a significant territorial loss for the MacKinnons. The castle was restored in the 20th century and remains occupied. Its location commands the Sound of Mull.

Duntulm Castle
Duntulm Castle, in the north of Skye, belonged to the MacDonalds of Sleat but is tied to the MacKinnons through alliance and military service. The MacKinnons served as standard-bearers to the MacDonalds and fought alongside them in the Jacobite risings. The castle was abandoned in the 18th century, and its clifftop ruins remain visible. Though not a MacKinnon seat, it represents their close relationship with Clan Donald. It overlooks the sea with dramatic views of the Trotternish coast.

Inverlochy Castle
Inverlochy Castle, near Fort William, was the site of the 1645 Battle of Inverlochy, where MacKinnon warriors fought alongside Montrose’s Royalist forces. The castle was already a ruin at the time but served as a strategic landmark during the conflict. The Royalists’ victory was one of the most significant of the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. The square-plan castle with its round corner towers remains mostly intact. It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland.

Knock Castle (Castle Camus)
Knock Castle in Sleat, Skye, was held by the MacLeods and later the MacDonalds of Sleat. The MacKinnons, as allies of the MacDonalds, were involved in the regional feuds and warfare that surrounded the site. Though never in MacKinnon hands, the castle’s history overlaps with theirs through conflict and cooperation. Only parts of the tower and walls remain on a coastal headland. It stands as a reminder of the volatile alliances in clan history.

References

Coventry, M. (2010). The Castles of Scotland (5th ed.). Musselburgh: Goblinshead.
Tabraham, C. (2005). Scotland’s Castles. London: Batsford.
MacKinnon, D. (1899). The Clan MacKinnon: A Short History. Oban: MacKinnon Society Press.
Historic Environment Scotland. (n.d.). Castle Records and Listings.
RCAHMS. (n.d.). National Monuments Record of Scotland.
Clan MacKinnon Society. (n.d.). MacKinnon Heritage and Strongholds.