Inveraray Castle
Gothic fantasy palace
In 1745 the powerful third Duke of Argyll treated himself to this elegant castle, which still remains the family home, though much is open to visitors.
The dormer windows and conical corner spires were graceful nineteenth century additions that can be admired from the ornamental gardens. Inside there's some impressive regency furniture, extravagant art and a somewhat out-of-place, and sorry-looking sporran that belonged to outlaw Rob Roy.
But by far the most impressive sight is the castle armoury that bristles with weaponry sent to the Campbell clan (perpetrators of the Glencoe massacre) by the British government to fight the Jacobites.
There’s also a good teashop open to non-paying visitors, as are the grounds.
Text © Christian Williams
Images by Ian Dick, yolanda.white84