Invergarry Castle: the ruin soaked in clan blood

Perched on the dramatically named Creagan an Fhithich (Raven’s Rock) overlooking Loch Oich, Invergarry Castle stands as a stark reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past. Once the stronghold of Clan MacDonell of Glengarry, a branch of the powerful Clan Donald, its ruined walls now tell stories of fire, war and political upheaval. While legends swirl around its history, the documented facts are grim enough to satisfy even the most sceptical dark history enthusiast.

Invergarry Castle

Invergarry Castle as we know it was built in the early 17th century, following a devastating raid by Clan Mackenzie in 1602. The Mackenzies not only attacked but also burned the earlier stronghold and Strome Castle. Tradition claims the stones for the new castle were passed hand-to-hand from Ben Tee mountain, though there’s no solid evidence for this. The resulting five- or six-storey L-plan tower house became a strategic seat of power for the MacDonells.

The castle’s history is closely tied to the Jacobite risings. It served as a base during the 1715 uprising and later sheltered Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745, both before and after the disastrous Battle of Culloden in 1746. Following Culloden, the castle was destroyed by government troops under the Duke of Cumberland, earning him the nickname "Butcher Cumberland." This was not its first burning: Cromwell’s forces had already razed it in 1654, though it was rebuilt in the 1660s. After its destruction in 1746, it was never rebuilt, and the MacDonells eventually moved to Invergarry House.

The ruins today are roofless but imposing, with their towering walls and bartizans hinting at its former grandeur. Accessible via a short, steep path from a layby on the A82, the site offers stunning views over Loch Oich for those prepared to navigate the rugged terrain. However, the ruins are unmaintained, so visitors should tread carefully.

Key Takeaways

• Invergarry Castle was the seat of Clan MacDonell of Glengarry, built after a 1602 raid by Clan Mackenzie.
• It was burned twice in documented history: first by Cromwell’s forces in 1654 and again after Culloden in 1746.
• The castle played a significant role in the Jacobite risings, particularly in 1715 and 1745-46.
• Today, the ruins are accessible via a short walk from the A82 and offer scenic views of Loch Oich.
• Nearby, the Well of the Heads monument commemorates a grim act of vengeance tied to Glengarry’s clan history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened at Invergarry Castle?
Invergarry Castle was burned twice: by Cromwell’s troops in 1654 and by government forces after the 1746 Battle of Culloden. It played a vital role during the Jacobite risings, serving as a shelter for Bonnie Prince Charlie and other Jacobites, but was ultimately left in ruins.

Can you visit Invergarry Castle ruins?
Yes, you can visit the ruins for free. They are accessible via a short, steep walk from a layby along the A82. However, the site is unmaintained, so wear sturdy shoes and visit in dry weather for easier access.

If you're exploring Scotland’s Jacobite history, Invergarry Castle is a poignant stop along the Jacobite trail. While it may not be haunted, its violent past and dramatic setting make it a fascinating addition to any dark history tour. For more eerie locations, check out our guide to haunted castles.