Dumbarton Castle

Overlooking the River Clyde, Dumbarton Castle has been a fortress of strategic importance for centuries. Its history dates back to the Roman era, when it was known as Dunbritton, meaning “fort on the rock.” The current castle dates back to Alexander II of Scotland who built the foundations around 1220.

As part of its foundations, the castle incorporates sections of the Antonine Wall, a Roman frontier fortification built in the 2nd century that once spanned the whole of central Scotland.

Viking king Olaf assaulted Dumbarton in 870, capturing slaves and treasures that were taken on 200 longships to Ireland.

In the middle ages the strategic location of Dumbarton Castle made it a target for invaders. Both the English and Scots had taken the castle as a stronghold, being besieged and captured by the English on several occasions, but the Scots always managed to reclaim it. During the Scottish Wars of Independence national hero Robert the Bruce used the castle as a base of operations.

By the 15th century Dumbarton Castle had became a royal residence after being fortified by James IV, grandfather of Mary, Queen of Scots. In 1548 Mary was betrothed to the French Dauphin Francis and she left from Dumbarton to be brought up at the French Court.

With its imposing architecture and presence of historic cannons and fortifications, the castle reflects its military heritage. Dumbarton served as a military garrison for centuries, housing soldiers from various regiments and substantial artillery fortifications were added in the 1600s and 1700s.

Legend has it that a well within the castle was used to dispose of the bodies of enemies and prisoners. Unexplained sounds and ghostly apparitions are reported at the well.