What is recorded here

Castle Semple is a ruined stone peel tower standing on a rocky islet in Castle Semple Loch, Renfrewshire, built by the Semple family shortly before 1560 as an impregnable retreat during the Scottish Reformation. Robert, 3rd Lord Semple, named it Defender of the Faith while opposing Protestant reform, strengthening its defences against charges of murder and theft rather than submitting to justice. The tower survived siege by the Earl of Glencairn and later became a curved embankment-linked landmark where ornate carved stones still hint at the comfort and pride hidden inside its martial walls.

Scotland's National Record of the Historic Environment records Castle Semple as Country House (period Unassigned). 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.

Castle Semple was built by the Sempill family in the 16th century and is remembered for its historical association with the Earls of Sempill and its role in the development of Scottish Renaissance architecture.

The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.