Pictures of Doune Castle

a Castle in the town of Doune, in the county of Stirlingshire

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About Doune Castle

Doune Castle is one of Scotland's premier medieval buildings. It was built in the 14th century by Robert Stuart, Ist Duke of Albany and younger son of King Robert II. Later, owing to his elder brother Robert III being declared unfit to rule, the Duke of Albany took over the mantle of responsibility governing Scotland for almost thirty years. Thus, Doune has always been known as a Royal castle and indeed, throughout the ages it has been used by Scottish kings and queens.

The stout walls of Doune have been privy to Royal visitors for hundreds of years. It became a popular Royal retreat used by King James I to James VI. The castle also provided a home for the wife of James II and James III, later is was to be used by Sir James Stuart who became keeper of the castle in the 16th century. In 1570, Sir James became Lord Doune.

Doune Castle has its place in the story of the Jacobite Uprising of the 18th century when it was used to hold prisoners. Perhaps its most famous prisoner was the Rev.John Witherspoon who was taken there following the Battle of Falkirk in 1746. He later sailed for America where he became president of Princeton college and one of the architects of the Declaration of Independence.

The castle stands on ground on which it is believed an earlier castle may have stood. It looks out over the picturesque village of Doune with stunning views in all directions, its grounds are perfect for picnics or for simply strolling and absorbing the castle's strong historic atmosphere. For centuries it lay almost in ruins, but today it is much restored and visitors are able to wander around its fabled walls and see some of the rooms which have been furnished to look as they would when used by Scottish royalty, particularly the Great Hall. Other things to see include an impressive kitchen, magnificent original fireplaces and a superb vaulted ceiling. In the courtyard there is a deep well and in the basement visitors can enjoy an exhibition recounting Doune's history.

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Nearby travel help

M9 Junction 11	(3.2 miles, 5.1 km, direction SE)
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M9 Junction 10	(4.7 miles, 7.6 km, direction SE)
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Hotels near Doune Castle

	Dunblane Hydro Perth Road, Dunblane, Stirling, Scotland (3.4 miles, 5.5 km, direction E) Built in 1878, the Dunblane Hydro is well located only 45 minutes from both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The hotel has a full range of excellent leisure facilities and meeting rooms. This beautiful Victor... More info and book online..  Price from £89.00
	Royal Hotel 55 Henderson Street, Bridge Of Allan, Stirling, Scotland (4.5 miles, 7.3 km, direction SE) The Royal Hotel provides all that is best in the modern Scottish hospitality experience. It is uniquely centrally located in this historically important part of Scotland. At The Royal Hotel & Lodge,... More info and book online..  Price from £70.00
	Paramount Stirling Highland Hotel 29 Spittal Street, Stirling, Stirling, Scotland (6.3 miles, 10.2 km, direction SE) Built in 1854 as the High School of Stirling, it is close to Stirling Castle & all the attractions of the City. The Hotel's top class restaurant, Scholars has been awarded 1 AA rosette. Dating back ... More info and book online..  Price from £84.00
	Golden Lion Hotel 8/10 King Street, Stirling, Stirling, Scotland (6.4 miles, 10.4 km, direction SE) Built in 1786, The Golden Lion Flagship Hotel is one of the main focal points of historic Stirling. Located in the heart of the city next to the best shops, restaurants and bars. An excellent city c... More info and book online..  Price from £64.00
	Express By Holiday Inn Stirling Springkerse Business Park, Stirling, Stirling, Scotland (7.3 miles, 11.7 km, direction SE) Express by Holiday Inn Stirling is a modern and comfortable 3-star hotel, with easy access to central Stirling and motorway to Edinburgh, Glasgow and the north plus all Stirling’s famous attractions... More info and book online..  Price from £79.00

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