Ballone Castle (Ross-Shire)

Spectacularly situated on the cliff tops near Tain, Ballone is a Z-plan castle of the late 16th century. It has been a superb example of its type with square and round towers flanking the main block. It sports some unique turrets. In occupation until the late 17th century it was in ruin by the next and so stood until restored by Lachlan and Annie Stewart which earned for them the Nigel Tranter Award. Just how daunting was their task can be seen from this early depiction of 1900.