Old Inverlochy Castle, Fort William

Inverlochy Castle stands on the southern bank of the River Lochy and was built around 1270–1280 by John “the Black” Comyn. At the time, the Comyn family was among the most powerful in Scotland. The castle later became part of wider conflicts for control of the kingdom and is connected to two major battles fought nearby, in 1431 and again in 1645.

After Robert the Bruce took the Scottish throne in 1306, the Comyns lost their lands. The castle was not clearly destroyed at that moment but was left unused for long periods, which led to its gradual decline. It was later linked to Clan Cameron until 1501, then granted to Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly, in 1505. Under James IV, the castle was reused as a royal garrison, showing its continued military value.

The ruins still show a clear medieval plan. The castle is square, with strong curtain walls and a round tower at each corner. The larger northwest tower, known as the Comyn Tower, served as the main living and defensive space and is built into the wall. Entrances were designed for defence, including the use of portcullises. Today, the site is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is protected as a scheduled monument.