The Grant Tower
This tower was built some time after King James IV gave Urquhart to John Grant of Freuchie in 1509. It was reward for supporting the monarch in his struggle against the MacDonald Lords of the Isles.
The King's Gift
Along with Urquhart, Grant was given an extensive estate. In return, the laird had to restore order to the area and repair the castle. He also had to provide the king with 15 horsemen in times of war.
Grant's son John died with James IV at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. In the chaos that followed, the MacDonalds attacked and occupied Urquhart for three years.
'For the benefit of the state and progress and to have good order among the inhabitants and for making those obedient to our laws who in times past have been unruly and unlawful.'
James IV outlines John Grant's obligations, 1509.
A Scotsman's Home
Urquhart was no longer a strategic fortress when the Grants built their fortified residence on the base of the ruined donjon tower.
It was supposed to be a comfortable house. Nevertheless, Urquhart's lairds were often absent, staying in their other castles.
( photo captions )
- Above: Castle Grant, formerly Castle Freuchie, near Grantown-on-Spey, was the main home of the Grant family.
Centre: An artist's impression of the Grant Tower in the late 1500s.
- Left: The gun holes found beneath some windows were probably more for show than for defence.
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