Castle Sinclair Girnigoe: Scotland’s Cliffside Medieval Stronghold

Origins and Evolution of a Highland Fortress

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe stands on a narrow fin of rock projecting into Sinclair Bay, about three miles north of Wick on Scotland’s rugged Caithness coast. Originally built in the late 14th or 15th century by the Sinclair family, it began as Castle Girnigoe, likely constructed by William Sinclair, 2nd Earl of Caithness, before his death at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. Over the next two centuries, the castle was expanded and modified, notably in the early 1600s when Castle Sinclair was added, creating a complex of two castles linked by a drawbridge over a deep ravine. This fusion of fortifications reflects the Sinclairs’ growing power and the turbulent history of northern Scotland.

A Seat of Power and Feuds

The castle was the stronghold of the Sinclairs, Earls of Caithness and Orkney, who played a significant role in Scottish history. George Sinclair, the 5th Earl, known as the “Wicked Earl,” enhanced the castle’s defenses and engaged in fierce clan feuds, especially with Clan Gunn. Despite a 12-day siege by the Earl of Sutherland in 1588, the castle held firm. However, internal family disputes and financial troubles in the late 17th century led to its decline. In 1677, a rival claimant stripped the castle of its roofs, floors, and furnishings, marking the beginning of its ruinous state.

Architectural Highlights and Setting

The castle’s remains include a five-storey tower house with crow-stepped gables, vaulted basements, and a once-grand hall with an oriel window. The site is characterized by its dramatic cliff-edge location, surrounded on nearly all sides by the sea, providing natural defenses and stunning vistas. The castle is built from local Caithness slate with red sandstone facings and was once lime-washed. Visitors can explore the outer bailey, gatehouse, and remnants of the inner ward, with a dry moat and drawbridge that once secured the peninsula.

Preservation and Visitor Experience

Today, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a scheduled monument and the only Scottish castle listed by the World Monuments Fund. Managed by the Clan Sinclair Trust, it is open year-round without an admission fee, though donations are encouraged for its preservation. The castle is accessible via a short, well-marked walk from a nearby car park beside the Noss Head Lighthouse road. While parts of the ruins are fenced off for safety, visitors can wander through much of the site, absorbing the atmosphere of medieval Scotland and enjoying panoramic views of Sinclair Bay and the North Sea.

Natural Surroundings and Wildlife

The castle’s coastal setting offers more than history. The rocky cove adjacent to the ruins is a known spot for wildlife sightings, including seals, dolphins, and occasionally orcas. The walk to the castle passes through pastoral Highland landscapes dotted with grazing sheep, enhancing the tranquil, rural ambiance. The dramatic cliffs and sea vistas make it a favored location for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Legacy of the Sinclairs and Cultural Significance

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a powerful symbol of the Sinclair family’s legacy and Scotland’s medieval heritage. Its story intertwines with clan battles, political intrigue, and architectural innovation. The castle’s dramatic ruins and cliffside perch continue to inspire awe, offering a tangible link to the past and a unique window into the history of the Scottish Highlands.