Claypotts Castle
History, tourist information, and nearby accommodation
HERITAGE RATING:
?

Claypotts Castle
One of the best examples of 16th-century Scottish tower house architecture in the country, Claypotts was built between 1569 and 1588 by John Strachan, on land leased from Lindores Abbey. The Strachans sold the castle to Sir William Graham of Ballunie, and it was later owned by 'Bonnie Dundee', John Graham of Claverhouse.
The castle reverted to the crown after the battle of Killicrankie and was then granted to the 2nd Marquis of Douglas. The castle passed by marriage to Earls of Home, and in 1929 the family gifted it to the state.
Claypotts is built primarily for comfort, though it does feature several defensive characteristics. It is laid out on a traditional Z plan, with opposing corner towers augmented by corbelled garret chambers at the angles.
In the tower angles are a pair of turnpike stairs, one for family use and one for servants. Claypotts was in use as a dwelling until well into the 19th century.
Unfortunately, the interior is closed to the public but you can get good views of the exterior and can't fail to be impressed by the imposing towers. It's the sort of building you imagine when you think of a Scottish tower house.
Most photos are available for licensing, please contact Britain Express image library.
About Claypotts Castle
Address: Broughty Ferry,
Angus and Dundee,
Angus,
Scotland
Attraction Type: Castle
Location: Off the A92 East of Dundee at Claypotts Junction
Website: Claypotts Castle
Historic Scotland
Location
map
OS: NO457319
Photo Credit: james denham, licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Licence
Opening Details: Open access site, usually accessible at any reasonable time
HERITAGE
We've 'tagged' this attraction information to help you find related historic attractions and learn more about major time periods mentioned.
Find other attractions tagged with:
16th century (Time Period) -
19th century (Time Period) -
castle (Architecture) -
tower house (Architecture) -
Attraction search