Mingarry Castle Ruins

Highland, United Kingdom

Mingarry Castle was considered a strategically important site in terms of communication with overseas areas and as an entranceway to the Sound of Mull. Originally built in the 13th century for the Clan MacDonald of Ardnamurchan, the castle has had many different occupants. King James IV of Scotland used it as a stronghold for fighting off Clan Donald in the late 15th century. In 1515 the castle was besieged by the Clan MacDonald of Lochalsh and again two years later when they finally took the castle.

In 1588 the chief of the Clan MacLean of Duart resided there after capturing the chief of the Clan MacIan of Ardnamurchan. In 1588, one of the ships of the Spanish Armada, named the San Juan de Sicilia, landed on Mull and MacLean of Duart used troops from the ship to aid him in his warring against the MacDonalds of Clanranald and the MacIans of Ardnamurchan. On one occasion, a force from the ship besieged to the castle for three days before withdrawing.

Other occupants over the years included the Clan Campbell, the Earls of Argyll (in 1612), and Alasdair Colkitto MacDonald who fought the English Parliamentarians of Oliver Cromwell in 1644. The majority of the current building dates from the 17th century onwards. Mingarry is roughly hexagonal in shape with nine-foot-thick walls, thicker on the seaward side.

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Highland, United Kingdom
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Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

Rating

4.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Brightwater Lodge (8 months ago)
What a spectacular location for such a fabulous intimate restaurant on the beautiful Ardnamurchan coastline. We had the Sunday lunch menu which was absolutely delicious and beautifully presented. We received a very warm welcome and the service was excellent. Altogether a very memorable meal. We look forward to returning and we won't hesitate to recommend Mingary Castle.
Tracy Long (8 months ago)
I love this castle! My husband and I went to Mingary castle to celebrate our 25 year wedding anniversary and it was perfect! The castle retains all the magic of its incredible history while housing beautifully designed guest rooms, lounge and restaurant. Our room was perfect down to last detail - the carefully selected furnishings for the bedroom and bath, and also the gorgeous textiles on the bed and curtains were all a wonderful part of the experience. The food was exquisite - delicious, original, and clearly made with love and real passion for the culinary arts! The wine pairings were perfect with every dish. The surrounding nature is breathtaking - the walking and short drives to local sites are not to be missed (unless, of course, you are just too comfortable in your lovely room to leave the castle!) Thank you so much to our very talented and kind hosts! You made us feel welcomed and helped us make our anniversary celebration a truly memorable and special occasion!
Penny Horner (8 months ago)
We had the 5 course dinner last night. Fabulous food with amazing eye for detail. I wish I knew how Colin makes each item on the plate so flavoursome. I don't eat meat or dairy and I'm grateful for the effort put in to provide me with a fabulous individual menu.
Carole Howe (8 months ago)
Had a delicious meal at Mingary Castle, the 5 course taster menu was well presented every course very tasty. The star of show had to be the Saddle of Roe Buck, an outstanding dish indeed. And all served up in a totally unique place. What a beautiful place Mingary Castle is. The views from the castle walls is stunning and the transformation from ruined walls to this hotel and restaurant is so well done. Well worth a visit
Joshua Jones (9 months ago)
This place is amazing! Our dining experience was exceptional, the staff’s attention to detail was outstanding. Honestly, I can’t stress how attentive they were and what a wonderful experience it was. The food was also outstanding, some of the best food I’ve ever had. The chef is an artist! Our room was incredibly romantic with the most amazing views and we stayed in a castle. I absolutely love Scotland and will return to stay at Mingary Castle. This castle is beautiful, the food excellent, but the service is what really made this experience one of the best I’ve had here in Scotland or anywhere!
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