Scheduled MonumentsScotlandScalloway Castle

Scalloway Castle

Scotland
HES SM90273
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Scalloway Castle is a ruined stronghold located in the parish of Scalloway on the Shetland Mainland, constructed in the early seventeenth century by Patrick Stewart, Earl of Orkney and Shetland. Built between 1600 and 1604, the castle comprises a substantial Z-plan fortification with two round towers positioned diagonally opposite each other, exemplifying early modern Scottish military architecture. The structure was constructed of local stone and represents one of the finest examples of its type in northern Scotland, though it fell into disuse following the earl's execution in 1615. The ruins remain substantially intact, preserving the characteristic features of its period including corbelled turrets and defensive gun loops.

Scalloway Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM90273. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Scalloway Castle?

Scalloway Castle is a ruined stronghold located in the parish of Scalloway on the Shetland Mainland, constructed in the early seventeenth century by Patrick Stewart, Earl of Orkney and Shetland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM90273.

Who is responsible for protecting Scalloway Castle?

Scalloway Castle 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 SM90273.

What other scheduled monuments are near Scalloway Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Burland, broch 245m W of (2.7 km), Isleshaven, burnt mounds 500m NNE of (3.5 km), Gurwill, burnt mounds 145m ESE of (4.6 km).

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