Castle Roy

Scotland
HES SM952
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Castle Roy is a motte-and-bailey castle situated near Nethy Bridge in Inverness-shire, dating to the early medieval period, likely the twelfth or thirteenth century. The monument comprises a substantial earthwork mound surmounted by a timber or stone fortification, typical of Norman defensive architecture introduced into Scotland during this era. The site demonstrates the strategic importance of controlling the Spey valley and reflects the pattern of castle-building by Anglo-Norman settlers and Scottish nobility in the Highlands during the medieval period. Though now reduced to its earthwork remains, Castle Roy represents a significant example of early medieval fortification in the Scottish Highlands and illustrates the military landscape of medieval Inverness-shire.

Castle Roy is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM952. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castle Roy?

Castle Roy is a motte-and-bailey castle situated near Nethy Bridge in Inverness-shire, dating to the early medieval period, likely the twelfth or thirteenth century. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM952.

Who is responsible for protecting Castle Roy?

Castle Roy is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM952.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castle Roy?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Finlarig, chapel and enclosure 300m W of (3.8 km), Tullochgorum,chambered cairn & stone circle 450m W of (4.2 km), Petriny Motte, 150m N of Mains of Garten (4.5 km).

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