Castles of Scotland – Old Inverlochy Castle

Old Inverlochy Castle is one of the finest surviving medieval castles in Scotland. Located on the outskirts of Fort William in the Highlands, at the foot of Ben Nevis, it stands in a spectacular setting surrounded by mountains, rivers, and centuries of history.

Built during the late 13th century by John Comyn, Lord of Badenoch and Lochaber, the castle served as a powerful symbol of the Comyn family's influence in the western Highlands. Today, its remarkably well-preserved walls provide visitors with a rare opportunity to experience the architecture of a major medieval Scottish fortress.

The Comyn Stronghold

Construction of Inverlochy Castle began around 1270 and was completed by approximately 1280 under John "Black" Comyn, one of the most powerful noblemen in Scotland.

The Comyn family controlled vast territories throughout the country and were among the principal rivals of Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Strategically positioned near the meeting of the Rivers Lochy and Nevis, the castle guarded important routes through Lochaber and the western Highlands.

Architecture

Unlike many Scottish castles built around a central tower, Inverlochy was designed as a quadrangular enclosure castle.

A strong curtain wall surrounded a large courtyard, with circular towers positioned at each corner. Additional towers protected the entrances, creating an exceptionally strong defensive layout for its time.

The castle's design reflects military influences from continental Europe and demonstrates the wealth and ambition of its builders.

Even today, much of the curtain wall and several towers survive to an impressive height.

The Fall of the Comyns

The fortunes of Inverlochy Castle changed dramatically after Robert the Bruce seized the Scottish throne in 1306.

Following the defeat of the Comyn family, their lands and castles were confiscated by the Crown. Inverlochy remained an important royal stronghold, although it no longer served as the principal seat of the Comyns.

The First Battle of Inverlochy

In 1431, one of the most significant battles in Highland history took place near the castle.

Alexander MacDonald, Lord of the Isles, defeated a royal army led by the Earl of Mar. The victory reinforced the power of the Lords of the Isles and demonstrated the continuing importance of the western Highlands in Scottish politics.

Restoration and Royal Garrison

By the early 16th century, the castle had fallen into partial disrepair.

In 1505, King James IV ordered Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly, to repair and maintain the fortress as a royal garrison. This work helped preserve the castle and ensured its continued military importance.

The Second Battle of Inverlochy

The castle again found itself near the centre of Scottish history during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms.

In 1645, James Graham, 1st Marquis of Montrose, won a decisive victory over Covenanter forces at the Second Battle of Inverlochy.

The battle is considered one of Montrose's greatest military achievements and remains one of the most famous engagements of the Scottish Civil Wars.

Old Inverlochy Castle Today

Today, Old Inverlochy Castle is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is open to visitors.

The impressive ruins remain among the best-preserved examples of a 13th-century enclosure castle in Scotland. Visitors can walk through the courtyard, explore the surviving towers, and admire spectacular views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding Highlands.

The nearby Inverlochy Castle Hotel, despite sharing the name, is a separate 19th-century mansion and should not be confused with the medieval fortress.

Conclusion

Old Inverlochy Castle is one of Scotland's most important medieval castles. From its origins as a Comyn stronghold to its connections with two major battles in Scottish history, the castle has witnessed some of the most dramatic events in the Highlands.

Its remarkable preservation, powerful history, and stunning location beneath Ben Nevis make it an essential destination for anyone interested in Scotland's castles and medieval heritage.