History of the Stewarts | Castles and Buildings
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Castle Stalkair
Appin, Argyll
Standing in a commanding position on a rocky islet where Loch Laich meets Loch Linnhe, close to the shore opposite Port-na-croish in Appin, Castle Stalker (or Stalkair) was built by the Chief of Appin for James IV as a hunting lodge in the first years of the sixteenth century. The name means "Castle of the Falconer". The walls are immensely thick and the first floor comprises the Great Hall, 31 feet by 21 feet with a big fireplace. There are two further floors above this level, which were originally the king´s private apartments.
After the death of James V in 1542, Castle Stalker became the principal residence and stronghold of the Stewarts of Appin. (Before this time it is believed that they had a small castle on the neighbouring island of Shuna, now a complete ruin.) The roof and other timbers were repaired in 1631 after an attack by the Campbells. The castle, along with the whole Appin estate, was forfeited in 1746 and the Chief and his family were in hiding. The castle was burned and remained un-restored until the early 20th century, when Charles Stewart of Achara bought it and began restoration work, but sold it again before it was completed. Subsequently, the late Mr. Stuart Allward bought the ruin and he and his family have restored the fabric largely with their own hands. His family still own the Castle.
One of the most romantic and beautiful settings for a building anywhere in Scotland, Castle Stalker, seen against a crimson sunset such as one often gets on the west coast, is a sight never forgotten. It is among the most photographed buildings in Britain. The picture shows the Castle as it was in the 1880s before restoration.