Scottish Castles Association

This Tudor Gothic mansion of 1820 hides a secret ...

Top: Blairquhan is a William Burn design of 1820-24, pictured circa 1900
Bottom: Blairquhan in 2015 during SCA visit

In 1798 Sir James Hunter had purchased the estate with its castle as bankrupt stock. He appeared content until his marriage - his wife wanted something new!

Blairquhan Palace in 1798 before demolition

Hunter had bought a handsome 'palace' dating from 1573 containing the remains of a 14th century castle - but all was to be pulled down. Fortunately,  some of the carved detail from the older building was built into the kitchen range of the new.

Fragments from old castle - arms of James VI of Scotland above door

Guitar player with ruff and Venetian 'breeks' surmounted by cable moulding

Today Blairquhan, with its views across the estate, is a popular venue for weddings.

Article by SCA member Brian McGarrigle