loudouncastle

The Loudoun Castle

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Castles were built in vicinity of The Auld Place for 1,000 years.

The first known castle was built within 1,000 yards of the present castle in 1127 by the Norman Knight Baron Jacques (James) Lambinus. It was called "Arklowdun" often referred to as The Auld Place.

The "Auld Place, Arklowdun," as it was called, was listed in Loudoun documents in 1527 as the seat of the Loudoun Family.

As a means to provide defense of Scotland from the English (or other threats, King David I issued orders that castles should be built throughout Scotland and upgraded according to the Norman standard of a "mott and bailey." A "bailey" was a wall enclosing a castle; and a "mott" was a nearby stand of trees (usually yew for weapons, and other hardwoods for lumber, firewood, forest, etc.).

The ruins of the ancient castle are visible 1,000 yards of the present site and show evidence of a castle of Norman "mott and bailey" contruction and was in keeping with the early Loudoun duties as "Sherrif of Ayr."

Loudoun Castle Postcard

The earliest tower (square with a battlement) dates to either the 12th or 13th century. Around 1811 the castle was redesigned by Archibald Elliott for the Countess of Loudoun, and her husband the Second Earl of Moira. At this time it was one of the grandest mansions in the West of Scotland. The castle - with its 90 rooms and 10,000 volume library - became known as the "Windsor of Scotland".

photo of The Loudoun Castle front in 1986

In 1941 fire took hold at the castle and the fabric of the castle was destroyed beyond repair and it was left as a ruin.
Airel view circa 1970s.

Note the two yew trees by the right wall. The one to the front, the male, is said to be 1,200 years old. It's partner, the female yew, is a young 800 years old.

A popular theme park is currently situated in the grounds surrounding the castle.