Wemyss Castle

Wemyss Castle is a much extended castle which contains at its core a great tower possibly of 15th century date. The castle remains private and is not accessible to the public, and it would appear that no survey has been carried out of the buildings at any point in its life. Built on a cliff-top location with caves beneath, there are good views across the Firth of Forth, but it has to be said there is little militarily to recommend the site.

The lands of Wemyss were held by a family of that name in 13th century records, and although parts of the estate were sold off over the years, the castle was built by 1423 by the family. It is likely that the castle was extended following the reunification of the estates circa 1510, but details are unknown. The Wemyss family profited from the coal and salt industries, which undoubtedly funded further extensions and the grand 17th century gardens, which are open to the public at times. Although the then Lord Elcho was forfeited in 1745, the family were able to retain the estate, and the castle remains their private home.

HES Canmore database entry

Wemyss Castle Gardens official website