Pitsligo Castle

Pitsligo Castle is situated near the coastal town of Rosehearty in Scotland and was originally constructed by members of the Forbes family, a notable Scottish clan. Its origins as a defensive stronghold date back to the early 15th century, during a period when families built fortified keeps to assert local power and protect their lands.

The initial structure, known as a keep, was built around 1424 by the Forbes family of Pitsligo. This early phase established the castle as a residence and fortification. In the late 16th century, specifically during the 1570s, the castle underwent alterations led by another branch of the Forbes family, the Forbes of Druminnor, reflecting the ongoing adaptation of the site to changing defensive and domestic needs. During the same era or shortly afterwards, control of the castle passed to the Frasers of Philorth, who added a distinctive drum tower—a round defensive tower—at the north-east corner of the courtyard, enhancing the fortification’s strength.

In the 18th century, following the Jacobite uprising of 1745, the castle experienced a significant turning point when it was confiscated by the government as punishment for the rebellion. Ownership transferred to the Gardens of Troup family, who chose to remove the castle’s roof. This left Pitsligo Castle exposed to the elements and began its gradual decline into ruin.

The 19th century marked further devastation when Flemish troops led by William Lascelles attacked the castle in 1845, looting and damaging what remained. Earlier, around 1700, part of the main tower had already been taken down with the removal of its third storey, indicating that the castle may have never reached full completion or retained its original height.

Following centuries of decline, the castle found a new, practical use as a warehouse related to agricultural activities. This utilitarian phase continued until relatively recent times, ending in 1988. Around 1990, efforts were made to stabilize the ruins and protect them from further decay under the guidance of Douglas Forrest architects, commissioned by Malcolm Forbes. At that time, the surrounding estate still included a notable walled garden to the north and an additional enclosed area to the west of the castle, suggestive of the site’s former residential and defensive layout.

Throughout its history, Pitsligo Castle has witnessed changes of ownership, military conflict, and adaptation from a noble fortress to agricultural use. In recognition of its historical and cultural value, the site was formally listed as a category “A” building by Historic Environment Scotland in 1971 and is protected as a scheduled monument, ensuring its preservation for future generations.