Kilmartin Castle is small three story, formally ruined 16th century Z-plan tower house, which is now a luxury holiday let.

The castle was the residence of John Carswell, who moved to nearby Carnasserie Castle when he is made Bishop of the Isles.

The castle is located in the town at the head of the famous Kilmartin Glen which is home to at least 350 ancient monuments, of which 150 are prehistoric, and walking distance from the castle. A lovely place to stay to explore this wonderful part of Scotland.

~ History ~

1550 ~ John Carswell, rector of the Kilmartin Glen, builds himself a Z-plan tower house at the head of the glen. In his early 20's, as rector of Kilmartin church he is also tutor to the son of the 4th Earl of Argyll, who later becomes the 5th Earl of Argyll.

1565 ~ The 5th Earl of Argyll promotes John Carswell to the position of Bishop of the Isles. John later translates the Book of Common Order into Gaelic. Together they wield power throughout the Western Isles under the banner of Christianity.

Mary Queen of Scots awards John for his work by handing him control of the important Abbey of Iona. John moves his residence from Kilmartin to the grander Carnasserie castle nearby.

1674 ~ Kilmartin Castle passes to the Campbells.

1685 ~ The Kilmartin lands are pillaged by Government forces following the 9th Earl of Argyll's unsuccessful rebellion to overthrow King James VII of Scotland and James II of England.

1715 ~ Archibald Campbell of Kilmartin signs an oath of allegiance to King George I.

1790 ~ The castle falls into disrepair, leaving just the ground floor to be used as a school house.