What is recorded here

Urquhart Castle is a ruined fortress on Strone Point beside Loch Ness, built between the 13th and 16th centuries on an older early medieval fort site. Grants and MacDonalds clashed around it, the Grants strengthened it, then people left it largely empty until it was partially destroyed in 1692. Its wide bailey, tall Grant Tower andloch-facing position make it feel less like a small castle than like a stubborn landmark the Highland sea keeps measuring itself against.

Scotland's National Record of the Historic Environment records Urquhart Castle as Castle (medieval), Fort (early Medieval), Motte and Bailey (medieval), Vitrified Stone (period Unknown), Pin(s) (copper)(9th Century). The official map says its point is accurate as follows: NGR given to the nearest 1m. The record does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.

Urquhart Castle was originally built by the MacDougall clan in the 13th century and later held by the Scottish crown. It is important as a strategic stronghold on the shores of Loch Ness and for its long history of use spanning from early medieval times through the 17th century.

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