King Of The Castle
Discover Bothwell Castle, a significant stronghold in Scotland’s history
SINCE it was built in the 13th century, Bothwell Castle has played a crucial role in Scotland’s history. Through the Wars of Independence, Bothwell stood strong as it was swapped back and forth between Scottish and English control, and the marks of the castle’s tumultuous history can be spotted throughout the site to this day.
The medieval castle is now largely ruined, but, built upon a steep mound nestled in the crook of a bend on the River Clyde, it still retains its sense of intrigue and significance. With its impressive vantage point and towering walls, it is an imposing structure and it is easy to see why the castle was at the heart of such conflict.
Today, a visit to Bothwell Castle will find you walking back through history and reliving the events that took place between its walls. The castle’s impressive donjon – the fortified circular tower overlooking the river – is one
of the most impressive medieval structures still standing in Britain and it commands spectacular views across the Clyde Valley.
Ever the fans of gruesome history, kids will love to peer inside the eerie medieval cells in the prison tower. They can complete the Bothwell fact-finding quiz as they explore, making sure that they take in all the intriguing sites, from intricate stone carvings to the cannonball lodged in the castle’s walls.
There are informative displays to pour over, and the nooks, crannies and open spaces of the site allow younger visitors the chance to explore and imagine life as knight.
There is so much more history to be discovered with a visit to Bothwell Castle, with over 700 years of battles, drama and folklore embedded within its walls. The sheer beauty of the ruined castle and its impressive location also cannot be exaggerated, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon of exploration and adventure.