Keiss Castle

Keiss Castle stands near the village of Keiss in Caithness, Scotland. It was constructed by the Scottish civilization, most likely during the late 1500s or early 1600s under the direction of George Sinclair, the 5th Earl of Caithness. This castle was possibly built on the site of an earlier fortification, indicating a long history of strategic use in the area.

By the year 1623, the castle was firmly established, as it served as a reference point during King James VI’s campaign when he ordered Sir Robert Gordon to enter Caithness with armed forces. The castle remained significant through the 17th century, notably as the place where the 7th Earl of Caithness died in 1698. Within a few years, by 1700, the castle had fallen into a state of ruin. Nonetheless, repairs had been completed by 1726, alongside the construction of a nearby house intended for more convenient living.

The early 18th century brought new ownership when Sir William Sinclair, 2nd Baronet of Dunbeath, acquired the estate. The property became the Sinclair family’s principal residence by 1752. Just a few years later, around 1755, the original castle was replaced by a newly built home known as Keiss House. This marked a shift from the fortified tower to a more comfortable mansion style.

Financial strain led the Sinclair family to sell the estate in 1765 to another branch known as the Sinclairs of Ulbster. The subsequent years saw the house evolve architecturally. In 1860, prominent architect David Bryce extended and remodeled Keiss House in the Scottish Baronial style, a design characterized by decorative elements inspired by medieval castles. These renovations were commissioned by Colonel K. Macleay. Shortly after, in 1866, the property changed hands again, purchased by the Duke of Portland.

Today, the old castle is preserved as a scheduled monument, highlighting its historical importance. Its successor, the newer house and associated features like the walled garden and gate structures erected during the 1860 renovations, have earned recognition as Category B listed historic buildings.