Dunure Castle, perched on the rugged coast of southwestern Scotland, is steeped in history and legend. The name “Dunure” is believed to have originated from the Celtic words meaning “fort of the yew tree.” The site dates back to the late 13th century, with the earliest charter for the lands recorded in 1256. The remains of the castle that stand today, however, primarily date from the 15th and 16th centuries.
The origins of the castle are shrouded in mystery. One tradition suggests it was built by the Danes, while another claims the MacKinnons were granted the castle by Alexander III as a reward for their bravery during the Battle of Largs.
Dunure Castle holds a special place in Scottish history as the point of origin for Clan Kennedy, who once held sway over much of southwestern Scotland. The Kennedys were granted the rights to the land in 1357, and the castle became the clan’s stronghold. Mary, Queen of Scots, is recorded as having visited Dunure Castle during her third tour of the country in August 1563, staying for three days.
The castle is perhaps most infamous for the gruesome event known as the Roasting of the Commendator of Crossraguel in 1570. A dispute over land ownership and rental income between the Earl of Cassilis and the Commendator of Crossraguel Abbey led to a horrific act of torture. The earl captured the commendator, tricked him into traveling to Dunure Castle, and then subjected him to two days of imprisonment. When the commendator refused to sign over the contested lands, the earl resorted to barbaric methods, roasting and basting him over a brazier in the Black Vault of the castle. The commendator eventually relented and signed the lands over, though he was later rescued, he was left permanently crippled by the ordeal.
By 1694, Dunure Castle was described as “wholly ruined.” While it is unclear whether this state of ruin was due to the Civil War, local legend claims that the castle was blown up during this time. The major collapse of the southeastern part of the keep lends some credence to this tale.
In the late 17th century, Sir Thomas Kennedy of Kirkhill purchased Dunure Castle and its estate, along with Dalquharran Castle. According to legend, there are secret Ley tunnels that connect Dunure Castle to Greenan Castle further up the coast.
Today, visitors to Dunure can explore the ruins and the surrounding area, where they will also find the Dunure Labyrinth, a more recent project that adds to the mystique of this historic site.
