Braikie Castle

Braikie Castle is a late 16th century Scottish tower house situated midway between Arbroath and Brechin, east of the village of Friockheim in the parish of Kinnell.

History

• Braikie Castle is a late 16th century Scottish tower house situated midway between Arbroath and Brechin, east of the village of Friockheim in the parish of Kinnell.
• The castle's architecture is characteristic of a Scottish tower house from the late 16th century. Its layout features a traditional square plan with a central keep, flanked by two smaller towers at each corner. The castle's walls are constructed from local stone and feature a distinctive polygonal shape to its corners.

Architecture

The castle's architecture is characteristic of a Scottish tower house from the late 16th century. Its layout features a traditional square plan with a central keep, flanked by two smaller towers at each corner. The castle's walls are constructed from local stone and feature a distinctive polygonal shape to its corners.

Layout

The castle's interior layout is typical of a Scottish tower house, featuring a single story with a great hall, kitchen, and living quarters on the lower floor, and a small chapel or prayer room above.

Historical Significance and Events

• Braikie Castle has played an important role in Scotland's history, particularly during the 17th century when it was occupied by the Earls of Morton. The castle is believed to have been used as a refuge for the Earl's family during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms.

Current Status and Use

Braikie Castle stands as a ruin, with much of its original structure having been dismantled or destroyed over the centuries. However, the site remains an important historical landmark and is protected by Historic Environment Scotland.

Heritage Status

Braikie Castle is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument in Scotland, recognizing its cultural and historical significance to the country's heritage.

Visiting Information

• Braikie Castle can be accessed via the B965 road, which runs east of the village of Friockheim. The site is open to visitors during daylight hours, although access may be restricted due to weather conditions or other factors.

Notable Features and Rooms

The castle's most notable feature is its central keep, which features a distinctive polygonal shape to its corners. The great hall and kitchen are also notable features of the castle's interior layout. Unfortunately, much of the castle's original structure has been lost over the centuries, leaving only ruins to explore.

Location

Braikie Castle is situated in the parish of Kinnell, east of the village of Friockheim, midway between Arbroath and Brechin. The castle can be accessed via the B965 road.