Scalloway Castle

  • Scalloway, Shetland

Overview

Explore the fine castellated tower house of the infamous ‘Black Patie’.

Scalloway Castle was the home of Patrick Stewart, earl of Orkney and Shetland. ‘Black Patie’, as he became known in Shetland, was notorious for his oppression of the Shetland people. He was accused of using forced labour in Scalloway’s construction in 1599, and was eventually executed in Edinburgh in 1615.

The castle itself stands as a sophisticated and impressive example of a late 1500s tower house. One of only two castles constructed in Shetland, for many it stands as a symbol of Earl Patrick’s harsh rule.

Opening times

Scalloway Castle is closed until further notice for essential conservation works.

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