Stanely Castle, Medieval castle in Paisley, Scotland
Stanely Castle is a four-story L-shaped stone structure in Renfrewshire with exterior walls still standing above the reservoir waters. The building sits within Stanely Reservoir and can be viewed from the walking paths surrounding the waterside.
The structure was built in the early 1400s and was originally owned by the Danzielstons before passing through marriage to the Maxwells of Calderwood in 1402. In 1837 the surrounding marshland was flooded to create the reservoir, which submerged the lower portions of the building.
The stone walls show building methods from medieval times through their stone joints and the placement of remaining window openings. Standing above the water, it represents how such structures once served as residences for powerful families in the region.
The best way to see the ruins is to walk along the paths around the reservoir, which offer clear views of the stone structure from various angles. Access is free and available at any time, though the paths can become slippery after rain.
The ruins are surrounded by a lake that was created long after the castle was built, giving the site an unexpected layered history. Many visitors overlook that the structure was deliberately left to stand partially submerged rather than being rescued or demolished entirely.
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