Switchblade5984 wrote:-
great shots! is it public access or not?
btw what tartan is that?
No, Fatlips Castle is not officially open and you are unlikely to find it mentioned in any guide books. It was originally built for the Turnbulls of Barnhill in the 16th century. One story is that Fatlips was the descriptive nickname of the original laird, although another is that Fatlips was a goat which allegedly grazed nearby and would run to the castle to alert its occupants of approaching invaders! A previous Earl of Minto had some restoration carried out in the 19th century and Minto estates used it as a private museum for their artefacts until about fifty years ago, since when it has fallen into dereliction. I believe that the local Council would prefer Minto Estates to seal off access due to such dangers as slipping on the spiral staircase which is thickly covered in bird guano; falling from the second and third landings of the turret into the Laird's Hall; falling off the parapet; or being struck by falling timbers. Very few people visit it because there is no publicity or signage and it is difficult to reach so it is a spooky and lonely place. Compare with the similar Greenknowe Tower which is in the care of Historic Scotland who have carried out safety works such as railing off points where there is a sheer drop.
http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/s...ght=Greenknowe
I know of several towerhouses closer to public roads which have been restored as private residences.
The kilt is an all black wool heavyweight.
Last edited by cessna152towser; 13th September 06 at 11:51 AM.
Regional Director for Scotland for Clan Cunningham International, and a Scottish Armiger.
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