Balthayock Castle, Medieval tower house near Perth, Scotland
Balthayock Castle is a medieval tower house near Perth, standing on the side of a ravine and constructed from sandstone and stone rubble. The structure contains three stories with an attic and features thick walls that provided protection to those living inside.
The building was founded by the Blair family during the reign of William I in the 12th century and remained a family seat for generations. In 1594, Alexander Blair received a request for military support from King James VI, showing the strategic importance of the estate.
The castle displays two notable armorial panels: one dated 1370 on the eastern stair and another from 1578 with the initials AB at the southeast corner. These carvings in stone tell the story of the families who lived here and marked their presence through such lasting inscriptions.
The site sits on uneven ground along a slope, so visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven surfaces. The interior has been altered over time, so rooms may be arranged unexpectedly and stairs and passages may be narrow in places.
The main entrance on the first floor is reached by a stone staircase that replaced the original wooden one, clearly showing how the building changed over the centuries. This detail reveals how occupants made practical improvements to the structure to make it more convenient and secure for daily living.
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