Mearns Castle

Mearns Castle is a rectangular tower house built around 1450 with thick stone walls divided into three floor levels. The structure displays the simple yet sturdy construction typical of defensive dwellings from this period.

Lord Herbert Maxwell received permission from King James II of Scotland in 1449 to build this fortification. The castle emerged during a period when the Maxwell family was strengthening its power in the region.

The main hall on the first floor was the center of family gatherings for the Maxwells, where a musicians' gallery overlooked the space for important occasions. The layout shows how the family arranged their social life around this room.

The site is best reached from the nearest road, from where you can view the structure from outside. Visitors should note that access to the interior may be restricted and it is worth checking ahead of time.

The walls reveal two distinct building phases: the lower section used rough rubble masonry, while upper sections feature dressed stone blocks. This difference is clearly visible on the facade and tells the story of construction conditions and available materials at different times.

Location: East Renfrewshire

Location: Mearns

GPS coordinates: 55.76980,-4.30963

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07