Loch-in-Dorb, an Ancient Royal Fortress

Abstract

The castle is built on an island which is thought to be artificial. It was probably originally a crannog which later became the stronghold of the Comyns. Edward I stayed there whilst fighting against the Scots. The castle bears a strong resemblance to the mediaeval military fortresses in England and Wales and may have had extensive additions made under the orders of Edward, between the close of 1303 and the beginning of 1306. Its history is in many ways unique. So far as is known it never sheltered a ruling sovereign of Scotland, although members of the Royal house were its repeated possessors.