Scheduled MonumentsScotlandSwiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore
Remains of, achastle-shore

Swiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore

Scotland
HES SM10752
Site type
Remains of, achastle-shore
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Swiney Castle is a ruined fortification located on the shore near Achastle in Caithness, northern Scotland. The surviving remains consist of fragmentary stone structures indicative of medieval defensive construction, though the site has been substantially degraded by erosion and time. The castle likely dates to the medieval period, when fortified residences of this type were common throughout the Scottish Highlands, though precise chronological attribution requires further archaeological investigation. The site's coastal location reflects the strategic importance of controlling sea routes and communications in this remote northern region during the medieval era.

Swiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM10752. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Swiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore?

Swiney Castle is a ruined fortification located on the shore near Achastle in Caithness, northern Scotland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM10752.

Who is responsible for protecting Swiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore?

Swiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore 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 SM10752.

What other scheduled monuments are near Swiney Castle, remains of, Achastle-shore?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Achastle-shore, fishing station (0.1 km), Forse Castle (0.8 km), Forse House, settlement, field system, burnt mounds and cairns WSW of (2.8 km).

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