Crookston Castle, ultimately dates from 12th century and one of the few castles within range of Glasgow.

 Introduction 

This evening, I am reporting on Crookston Castle. This is a a medieval edifice which now sits, somewhat incongruously, in a medium-density residential housing area in the Pollok area of S.W. Glasgow. 

Crookston Castle in winter

                           

     Summary chronology of Crookston Castle

  • Around 1190 a wooden Motte and Bailey structure surrounded by a dry moat was built by a Norman named Robert de Croc whose surname was corrupted to Crookston .
  • Transformed in 14th century from wood to stone by Sir John Stewart with funds raised by ransoms obtained from a successful military adventure in France.
  • Subjected to a siege in 1489 by King James IV in context of a dispute with the holder, Earl of Lennox. Siege lasted one day.
  • Subjected to another siege in 1544 when Regent Arran successfully sought and obtained surrender from the troublesome Lennoxes.
  • In hands of Darnley’s by 1565 when home of Henry, Lord Darnley who married Mary, Queen of Scots in July 1565.
  • After Darnley’s assassination  in 1567 the castle passed down minor lines of the Stewart clan but was a ruin by the 18th century.
  • First property acquired by heritage organisation,The National Trust For Scotland. Open all year round.

 
Hikers approaching Crookston Castle



 
Bird’s-eye view from top of Crookston Castle
 

 
View from top of Crookston Castle


 
Room with fireplace at Crookston Castle


 
Thick stone interior walls at Crookston Castle


 
Anti-Clockwise stairs at Crookston Castle, Glasgow
 

 
Great Fireplace inside Crookston Castle
 

Barrel-Vaulted interior of Crookston Castle


 
12th century earthworks, Crookston Castle

More information

The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes sections on activities, sightseeing, castles, islands, wildlife, prehistory and much more. ISBN is 978-1-9161 332-0-4. Also available via Kindle..

 

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