Forbes Castles

Castle Forbes

Built in 1815 by the 18th Lord Forbes and is still occupied by his g-g-g-grandson. The Master of Forbes.

It was built on the land that was claimed by Oconachar

Picture reproduced with the permission of Malcom Forbes at http://www.castle-forbes.demon.co.uk/

Corgarff Castle

Built about 1530 the star shaped castle was occupied up until 1912. In 1961 it was turned over to the state for preservation.

In 1571 the Gordons attacked the castle. All 27 of the inhabitants including Margaret Forbes were killed and the castle was burned.

Tolquhoun Castle

	The original tower of Tolquhoun was built in 1420. In 1584, the rest of castle was built by William Forbes and his wife Elizabeth. Most of the castle is of the newer construction.
	All the courtyard walls in the inner courtyard had gun loops, and arrow ports for the defenders. Making it an effective trap for attackers.
Copyright C.Garner & P.Wright from darkisles.com

Craigievar Castle

Built in 1610 by the Mortmiers, it was purchased unfinished in1626 by William Forbes. His descendants occupied the castle until 1963 when it was turned over to the National trust of Scotland.

The castle is L shaped and 7 stories tall. The Lord and his family occupied the upper floors with the kitchen on the bottom, which allowed the heat to rise and heat the living quarters. There is a single entrance to the castle, but several stairs, including the secret escape route of the laird, give access to the hall from the top of the tower.

A coat of arms over the main staircase is dated from 1668 and delivers the family motto:

"Doe not vaiken sleiping dogs "

It is said that although the Forbes might enter through the main door, they all had to ultimately leave via a window as it was impossible to carry a coffin down the narrow stairs

Thank you Cheryl for your permission to post the above pictures. Check out her pages at http://www.darkisle.com/