This week we head north to Perthshire to explore a 16th-century tower house that, to be honest, was a bit more of a ‘party house’ than a fortress for defence. So, join us as we tell you a bit of the intriguing history of Elcho Castle and take you on a virtual exploration of the Castle as it stands today.
Nestled along the serene banks of the River Tay in Perthshire is Elcho Castle- one of Scotland’s best preserved 16th century tower houses. The Castle had been closed for the past few years for restoration work, and we were excited to finally get a chance to visit. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at Elcho Castle, so Walter posed for a quick photo at the entrance. However, before we head out on our ‘explore and discover’ tour of Elcho Castle, let’s cover just a bit of its history.
Elcho Castle is in the care of Historic Scotland, who points out that there isn’t that much history connected to it. What we do know is that it was built around 1560 by the Wemyss family, who were prominent landowners. They were also staunch supporters of the Stewart monarchs over the centuries. In fact, Sir John Wemyss supported Mary Queen of Scots at the Battle of Langside in 1568.
Historic Scotland highlights that Elcho Castle was built during a “period of relative calm” in Scotland and “trends in architecture reflected this. Strongly defended castles fell from fashion, in favour of castle-style country houses”. Therefore, Elcho Castle was not the main residence of the Wemyss family (that was Wemyss Castle in Fife)- it was their country residence where the family would go to relax and enjoy life.
By the early 1700s, Elcho Castle was abandoned as a family residence, but remained in the hands of the Wemyss family. Not much was done to it for the next century. Notably, “the 8th Earl re-roofed the castle in about 1830 and inserted new windows”. Historic Scotland goes on to state that, “it was probably around this time, too, that the cottage on the east side of the courtyard was built”. Finally, in 1929, the 11th Earl “entrusted the castle into State care”
Let’s head inside for a tour and explore more of this intriguing Castle.
As you approach Elcho Castle today, you are greeted by an impressive sight. The castle stands proudly on a slight rise, surrounded by lush, green lawns, and ancient trees.
Walking through the entrance, you are immediately struck by the well-preserved state of the interior.
We’ll start our tour in the kitchen. Historic Scotland points out the interesting fact that, “the bare stonework now gives the impression of a dreary interior, but in the 1500s the walls would have been whitened with lime-wash and the spaces lit by candles and oil-lamps”.
The room is dominated by a huge fireplace that would have been put to important use when the Wemyss family were in residence. “Most food was roasted on a spit place over the fire and turned constantly by the ‘turnbrochie’, or cook-boy”. Can you imagine having that tedious job?!
One of the more fascinating aspects of Elcho Castle is its spiral staircases. The main spiral staircase leads you up to the first floor and the Hall and the Great Bedchamber. We’ll visit the Hall first.
Imagine the hustle and bustle of medieval life as you wander through the rooms where the Wemyss family once entertained guests. The Hall, with its high ceilings and grand fireplace, transports you to a bygone era of feasts and festivities. Stop and listen carefully- can you hear the echoes of laughter and clinking goblets?
Just opposite from the main entrance to the hall is the Great Bedchamber. However, this wasn’t really used for sleeping. Rather, it was a private reception room where the family might entertain their most important guests.
You can still see remnants of the plasterwork frieze that was added in the 1600s.
Three separate spiral staircases with narrow, winding steps lead you to various chambers from the Hall. These would have been where the family and their guests slept. My description of the Castle as a ‘party house’ wasn’t an exaggeration. In fact, Elcho Castle has something we’ve never seen in any castle we’ve visited in Scotland before- it is positively overflowing (pun intended) with latrines! Clearly, the family wanted to make sure that their guests were well taken care of when ‘nature called’ during their feasts and celebrations. Therefore, all the rooms are en suite which would have been a bit of a 'luxury' for the family and their guests. Check out our YouTube short video for a wee tour!
The castle's rooftop provides a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, a vista that has changed little since the 16th century. It's a perfect spot for a moment of reflection, allowing you to appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty.
Speaking of beautiful nature, let’s head down and explore the Castle grounds a bit.
During its heyday, the grounds at Elcho Castle would have been laid out with a formal garden. There also would have been an orchard. However, the current orchard was planted in 1999. While Historic Scotland doesn’t know for sure how the one at Elcho Castle was laid out, they based their plantings on what would have been historically common for that period.
While it may seem a bit remote, Elcho Castle is only a few miles south of Perth. Therefore, if you are in that area, we recommend that you pay them a visit. The castle is managed by Historic Scotland and is open to the public from April to September. However, they are closed on certain days during the week, so be sure to visit their website in advance.
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Until next time- Explore & Discover!
