Guarding one of the main routes between Stirling and the Highlands, Doune castle played an important role in governing Scotland.

Doune Castle was built largely in the 14th century by Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany. He virtually ruled Scotland during the reign of Robert III between 1388 - 1420.
Robert Stewart died in 1320 and his son Murdoch inherited the role of Regent of Scotland. Murdoch was imprisoned , then beheaded when James I returned from captivity in England.

The best preserved medieval castle in Scotland lies South of where the River Teith and the Ardoch Burn meet.

The Stewarts used the castle as a country retreat from Stirling. The castle was occasionally used by Mary Queen of Scots and was held by men loyal to her until 1570.

The castle was used as a prison for government supporters during the 1745 Rebellion. John Hume, the author and some other prisoners escaped by knotting together bedsheets and climbing from the kitchen window.

The castle is protected by two rivers, surrounding banks and dry ditches.

There is a 95 foot gatehouse, vaulted rooms, a splendid Lord's Hall with it's carved oak screen, musicians gallery and double fireplace.

The castle fell into ruin but was restored by the 14th Earl of Moray in 1883 and is currently maintained by Historic Scotland.

Doune Castle is in demand as a film location and can be seen in 'Ivanhoe' and 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail'.

Photographs © Alice Gent