Craignethan Castle
Craignethan Castle gallery
This stronghold hidden among the rolling hills of Clydesdale was built around 1530 and is home to a rare a stone-vaulted shooting gallery.
This site is currently closed while we carry out vital conservation work.
The tower house is a quite exceptional ‘double-pile’ residence, far ahead of its time. The builder was Sir James Hamilton of Finnart, one of the wealthiest landowners in southern Scotland an and a close friend to James V.
Sir James's passion for architecture and fortification is very evident. The west rampart is now in ruins, but this mighty artillery defence was so imposing that it hid the tower house from view until it was demolished in 1579. Craignethan’s caponier – a stone-vaulted shooting gallery – is rare in Britain.
Craignethan Castle boasts a fine setting close the ancient woodland of Nethan Gorge and Nethan Water, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Historic places nearby
St Bride's Church
Admire the mausoleum of the Black Douglases.
10 miles
Open days or guided tours only
Bothwell Castle
Visit Bothwell Castle, a dramatic site hotly fought over during the Wars of Independence with England.
12 miles
Coulter Motte Hill
Visit the mound of a medieval motte-castle, in a strategic position overlooking a river crossing.
15 miles
Biggar Gasworks Museum
Visit Biggar Gasworks and view the steam-driven machines of the only preserved gasworks left in the country.
15 miles
Glasgow Cathedral
Step inside Glasgow Cathedral to discover soaring Gothic architecture, atmospheric crypts, and centuries of stories.
18 miles
Torphichen Preceptory
Explore the high tower and remains of the medieval headquarters of Scotland’s Knights Hospitaller.
19 miles
Cairnpapple Hill
Plan your visit to Cairnpapple Hill where you can explore a rare ceremonial complex and henge.
20 miles
