The castle’s most dramatic historical chapter occurred during the Jacobite rising of 1715. The MacDonalds of Glencrave were staunch supporters of the House of Stuart and rose in rebellion against the Hanoverian government. Following the failure of the rising at the Battle of Sheriffmuir, the government forces moved to suppress the Highland clans.
Despite the heavy Scottish branding, much of the movie was actually filmed on location in Ireland, with specific scenes shot at Glenveagh Castle in County Donegal. Visiting the "Glencrave" Experience
For the rugged landscape shots often associated with the film, visit Glenveagh National Park in Ireland, where the 19th-century baronial-style Glenveagh Castle stands.
The castle changed hands several times during the 17th and 18th centuries, with various Scottish clans and families vying for control. The castle was also used as a garrison during the Jacobite Risings, a series of rebellions aimed at restoring the Stuart dynasty to the British throne. glencrave castle scotland history
Built around 1490, the structure was a classic example of a tower house—a tall, stone residential tower that offered both prestige and protection. However, Glencrave was significant because it marked a shift in Scottish architecture. It was one of the earlier structures in the region to prioritize the comfort of the inhabitants over purely military defense. Its walls were thick, but its windows were larger than those of previous centuries, suggesting a desire for light and air alongside security.
Glencarva Castle is now a category A listed building, protected by Historic Environment Scotland. The castle is privately owned, but its grounds and surrounding estate are open to visitors. Visitors can explore the ruins, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Unlike other castles that were burnt to the ground or blown up with gunpowder (such as nearby Ruthven Barracks or Eilean Donan), Glencrave was confiscated and stripped of its assets. The roof was removed—a common tactic known as "slating" to make the building uninhabitable and useless to rebels. This marked the end of Glencrave as a noble residence. Without a roof, the interior quickly succumbed to the harsh Highland weather. Despite the heavy Scottish branding, much of the
Perched on a rugged hillside overlooking the rolling countryside of Perthshire, Scotland, lies the majestic Glencarva Castle. This ancient fortress has stood the test of time, witnessing centuries of battles, sieges, and power struggles. Let's dive into the rich history of Glencarva Castle, a testament to Scotland's turbulent past.
For nearly two centuries, Glencrave Castle served as the administrative and domestic heart of the local MacDonald clan. However, the peace of the glens was frequently shattered by the wider political struggles of Scotland.
While you cannot visit a town called Glencrave, you can experience its real-world counterparts: The castle was also used as a garrison
Following the forfeiture of the MacDonald estates in the early 18th century, the lands of Glencrave passed through various hands, eventually falling under the control of the Campbell family, the traditional rivals of the MacDonalds. The Campbells, already ensconced in their own seats of power, had no need for a remote, partially dismantled tower house.
In 1371, the castle was granted to the Stewarts, who would go on to become one of Scotland's most influential families. The Earls of Atholl, a branch of the Stewart family, held Glencarva Castle for over 150 years. During this period, the castle underwent significant renovations, including the addition of a tower house and curtain walls.
Glencrave Castle is a testament to the volatility of Scottish history. It rose as a symbol of clan power and independence, adapted to the comforts of a changing world, and fell victim to the political retribution of a new British state. Standing in its shadow, one is not just looking at a ruin, but at the skeleton of a way of life that vanished from the Highlands forever.