Johnstone Castle

Johnstone Castle is a tower house with three main stories and a Gothic tower wing that extends one level higher than the primary block. The structure displays architectural features spanning multiple periods, showing how it evolved from defensive stronghold to residential dwelling.

The castle was built in 1560 for the Houston family of Milliken and served as their principal residence. The family acquired additional lands in 1773 and carried out major expansions in the early 1800s before most surrounding structures were demolished in the 1950s to make room for housing development.

The castle received composer Frederic Chopin in 1848, during which he experienced a carriage accident but emerged without injuries.

The castle can be viewed from public streets surrounding it, with information boards providing historical context along the way. Access to the interior is restricted, but the exterior architecture and its setting among modern houses are fully visible from the surrounding area.

The medieval tower stands isolated among modern post-war residential terraces, creating a striking contrast between centuries of architecture. This unexpected juxtaposition illustrates how a single historic structure can endure while everything around it transforms.

Location: Renfrewshire

Location: Johnstone

GPS coordinates: 55.82790,-4.50756

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:47