Scottish Castles Photo Library
- Blackness, Stirlingshire
Blackness Castle, on the Firth of Forth, was built in the 15th century by the powerful Crichton family but became a royal residence when King James II annexed the lands. It was later to serve on a number of occasions as a prison and high ranking captives included Cardinal Beaton, Archbishop of St Andrews in 1543. The castle became a formidable stronghold with thickened walls and defensive guns. The garrison at the castle held it in support of Mary Queen of Scots for six years.
Located at a natural harbour, the castle was surrounded on three sides by water. The castle is often referred to as "the ship which never sailed."
See also Places to Visit - Blackness Castle for more information and illustrations.
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Blair Castle
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