Carsluith Castle

Carsluith Castle is a ruined tower house, dating largely to the 16th century. The lands of Carsluith were held by the Cairns family until 1460, when they passed to James Lindsay of Fairgirth, Chamberlain of Galloway. He was probably the builder of the main tower at Carsluith in the late 15th or early 16th century. The castle has not been occupied since the 18th century. Today it is now in the care of Historic Environment Scotland and is open to the public.

The castle comprises a main tower, and a later stair tower, built on to the north east. The main tower is around 10m high to the eaves. Above this are crow-step gables, with corbelled wall walks along the gable ends. Three of the corners have round turrets. The stair tower is topped by a gabled cap-house. A sink at first floor level once drained via a carved gargoyle on the west side.

The ground floor entrance is via the stair tower. The Brown arms are carved above the door. The vaulted basement is divided into two cellars, with gunloops in the walls. Above is the hall with windows and a fireplace. Another floor would have had bedrooms, with an attic at the wall walk level, although these floors have gone. On the north side, holes exist in the outside wall which would have supported an external timber gallery linking the second floor rooms and stair tower.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

Creetown, Kirkcudbrightshire, United Kingdom

Details

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