Dunure Castle

This is the one that started me on the castle trail back in 1995. I have since returned a couple of times to photograph it. Overlooking the Firth of Clyde, the castle stands on a rocky promintory protecting the harbour of Dunure.

There are two traditions which describe how the castle came into being in the 13th century. One has it built by the Danes while the other has it being being passed from Alexander III to the Mackinnon's as a reward for their deeds at the Battle of Largs against the Norsemen.

The castle consists of two distinct parts; the original (but much modified) keep overhanging the cliff and other buildings extending back to the headland. It is thought that the exntension buildings are from around the 15th century, built to provide additional defence for the landward approach. A chapel may also have existed on the site. Beneath the castle is a cavern thought to be a sally-port; a secrtet tunnel leading from the castle.

The castle fell into ruin in the 17th century and was described as wholly ruined by 1694.