Craignethan Castle

Lanarkshire, United Kingdom

Craignethan Castle is a ruined castle in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. Built in the first half of the 16th century, Craignethan is recognised as an excellent early example of a sophisticated artillery fortification, although its defences were never fully tested.

Craignethan is built on an imposing site above a bend in the River Nethan. Steep slopes protect the castle on the south, north and east sides, but the castle is actually overlooked by higher ground to the west, making it far more vulnerable than it appears. Craignethan's defences are therefore concentrated towards the west. The castle comprises a low central keep, within a rectangular walled courtyard. To the west is a deep ditch and beyond, a larger outer courtyard. The rectangular keep measures 21m by 16m, and was originally of two storeys plus an attic.

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Founded: 16th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

David O'Rafferty (4 months ago)
Not sure what was happening when we went there for the day, but it was closed with no sign saying why it was closed. It was summer and I’m in the middle of the afternoon. I have been before and really enjoyed the visit. It’s a great place to take kids and you can have a picnic. Where are you there?
Jerica Nolte (5 years ago)
Great castle. The last medieval built castle in Scotland. There is not always a roof but we had a great guide,Phil, who showed us around and painted the history of the castle. Great free tour.
Ronald Boot (6 years ago)
It was quite when we arrived so we could explore this awesome castle as long as we wish. The woman who greeted us (sorry forgot her name) was such a help and took the time to inform us about the castle and made us feel more then welcome. Great history and job well done to keep it alive. Really worth a visit!
Isabel Murdoch (6 years ago)
First visit to this castle. Lovely location, with the Nethan Gorge next to it. Plenty of spiral staircases, cellars and high views over the countryside. From the car park, you go downhill to castle. You can walk round the castle and under it. Spiral staircases have rope or metal rails. For those less able, there is still plenty to walk round. And benches to rest on. There is very clean toilets. A shop to pay your entrance sells some gifts and snacks. After visiting the castle, I took a walk to the Gorge viewpoint. This is reached via irregular sized steps down and then up. Worth it for the view. There is also a walk posted on the board. It was definitely a work out for me.
Geo Gal (8 years ago)
Absolutely beautiful, a hidden gem. Great place to take the children and dogs allowed to as long as they are on the lead. We will definitely return.
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