Carnasserie Castle is currently a ruined tower house in Carnasserie.
History of Carnasserie
John Carswell, who was granted the Protestant Bishopric of the Isles in 1567 and was the translator of Knox’s Liturgy into Gaelic, built the castle in 1565.
The castle passed to the Campbells of Auchinbreck in 1572; an old gateway to the orchard is dated 1681 with Sir Dougal Campbell’s initials.
He joined the Earl of Argyll in the Monmouth Rising of 1685 with the consequence that Carnasserie was blown up by the Royalist forces under MacLaine of Torloisk.
Highlights of Carnasserie
A track from the car park climbs gradually uphill to the rocky knoll on which this grey tower stands, commanding views of Kilmartin Glen.
The tower, which was built as one despite looking as though it was extended, has interesting stringcourses, corbels, and a carved panel over the re-entrant doorway.
The ground floor had the kitchen, with a large fire and unusual water inlet and oven. The well is at the base of the tower. Spiral stairs climb up through the building at each end, but the floors have gone.
Nevertheless, the wall-head walk is accessible, where Victorian graffiti and Mason’s marks can be seen. The castle has seven bedrooms, and the withdrawing room has an ornate fireplace.
Carnasserie Castle – Facts
Entrance to the Carnasserie castle is free. The castle is located in Carnasserie, Argyll, just two miles from Kilmartin and 150 km from Glasgow.
Carnasserie Castle Location
Address: Carnasserie Castle, Kilmartin, PA31 8RQ, United Kingdom. Get help with directions: