Rosyth Castle

Rosyth Castle Details

Rosyth Castle, ruined C15 tower of the Stewarts and later courtyard, sacked C17 by English and never repaired. Limited opening

  • Closest To: Rosyth,Inverkeithing,Dunfermline,Dalgety Bay,North Queensferry
  • Access: Occasional Access
  • Grid Reference: NT109821

Rosyth Castle is an impressive ruined tower house and courtyard castle built on a low lying site that was once a tidal island – and now lies within the security fencing of Rosyth naval dockyard. As such it is not open to the public regularly, although it is possible to see from the road outside. The tower dates to the 15th century and was built for the Stewart family, possibly on the site of an earlier fortified site.

The Stewart family remained in residence at Rosyth until the late 17th century, having extended the tower with domestic ranges and the courtyard over a number of phases. During the wars of the mid 17th century the castle was besieged with artillery and damaged, but remained in use by the family until 1694, when it was sold. The tower then fell into disuse and was used as a quarry before passing top state ownership in 1903. It has occasionally been opened up for Doors Open Days Scotland.

HES Canmore database entry

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