| Rothesay Castle | |
|---|---|
| Rothesay, Isle of Bute, Scotland | |
 Rothesay Castle, with the 16th century forework in the centre, and the 13th century "Pigeon Tower" on the right | |
 The 13th century curtain wall seen from the south-east, across the moat. The bases of the south-east and south-west towers can be seen. | |
  Rothesay Castle | |
| Coordinates | 55°50′11″N 5°03′18″W / 55.836461°N 5.055041°W |
| Type | Curtain Wall and Moat |
| Site information | |
| Owner | Historic Environment Scotland |
| Controlled by | House of Stuart |
| Open to the public | Yes |
| Condition | Ruined |
| Site history | |
| Built | 13thC |
| Built by | Alan, High Steward of Scotland or Walter Stewart |
| In use | Until 1660 |
| Materials | Stone |
Rothesay Castle is a ruined castle in Rothesay, the principal town on the Isle of Bute, in western Scotland. Located at NS086646, the castle has been described as "one of the most remarkable in Scotland",[1] for its long history dating back to the beginning of the 13th century, and its unusual circular plan.
The castle comprises a huge curtain wall, strengthened by four round towers, together with a 16th-century forework, the whole surrounded by a broad moat. Built by the Stewart family, it survived Norse attacks to become a royal residence. Though falling into ruin after the 17th century, the castle was repaired by the Marquess of Bute before passing into state care in the 20th century.
A paddle steamer named after the castle was constructed in 1816.
- ^ Lindsay (1986), p.412