Scotland's abandoned places revealed in striking images

Scotland of yesteryear

Whether it's ancient castles, rundown mines or derelict dynamite factories, Scotland has an enchanting array of abandoned and eerie places to engage the mind. Allow yourself to be transported back in time thanks to stunning images taken from the book Abandoned Scotland by Alastair Horne, published by Amber Books Ltd.

Click through the gallery to see the strange beauty of these derelict and deserted places across Scotland...

Woodhead Lead Mine, Galloway

Woodhead Lead Mine was built and financed by landowner Colonel McAdam Cathcart in 1838 and by the mid-century provided jobs for more than 300 people. During its heyday it mined ore and exported lead pigs and silver. 

Woodhead closed in 1873, yet the ruins of this once thriving mine stand amidst other derelict structures of a village the colonel built for his workers. The area is well worth a stroll – a true working class ghost town. 

Lennox Castle, East Dunbartonshire

This once stunning castle, built in 1837 for the Kincaid Clan, is perhaps most famous for the hospital built within its grounds around a century later. This medical institution was opened for those with learning disabilities.

The castle itself became a home for the many nurses who were employed there, and remained that way until the hospital closed in 2002. Unfortunately the castle was burned to ruins in 2008. However, its grounds now house the main training centre for Celtic Football Club.

Scapa Flow, Orkney Islands

One of the world's great natural harbours, this body of water situated among the Orkney Islands of Scotland has an intriguing history. A visually impacting reminder of the lengths the country's defence forces had to go to, Scapa Flow was a key factor in both world wars.

Some of the blockships (deliberately sunken vessels to thwart enemy attacks) can still be seen, and the wreckages further down make Scapa Flow one of the most popular dive locations on the planet.  

Derelict Kitchen, Lewis and Harris

The isles of Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides are scattered with derelict abandoned houses and are well worth a visit for a glimpse into the homely lives of yesteryear.

These forsaken crofts seem almost untouched, waiting for an owner that will never return. There are hobs still on stoves, rocking chairs, photographs on sideboards and even sheep skeletons, literally in the closet. 

Holyrood Abbey, Edinburgh

This spectacular abbey was once one of the grandest medieval buildings in all of Scotland. Founded by King David in 1128, the abbey and its grounds were a meeting place for parliament, as well as a royal residence.

It was destroyed in 1136 owing to various battles, storms and the Catholic reign of James the 2nd.

Dalquharran Castle, South Ayrshire

A boldly striking monolith with an interesting history, Dalquharran Castle was designed by Robert Adam and completed in the late 18th century. As well as a residence for the Kennedy family, the castle was later used as a youth hostel and a school for the deaf.

Due to the costs involved, and an almost unbelievable episode involving a lead roof being removed to avoid paying tax, the castle became derelict and inevitably succumbed to the ruins it is today.

Tank Traps, Lossiemouth

The tank traps at Lossiemouth in Moray offer up another reminder of the rigours and efforts involved in defending the country during World War II. These concrete slabs were a masterstroke and were used to block enemy tanks, or any vehicles from penetrating.

They are mostly still intact and span quite a distance along the coastline, and they even outdate the pine trees towering above.  

British Dynamite Factory, Ardeer

Built by Swedish chemist Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite and also founder of Nobel Peace Prizes, this factory would become the largest of its kind in the world.

The location, on the North Ayrshire coast, offered the perfect environment for the safe production, testing and transportation of explosives.  

Castle Stalker, Loch Laich, Argyll

This picturesque castle was presumed to have been built around 1320 by Sir John Stewart, the Lord of Lorn. It's a fortress with an intriguing history involving clan rivalry, murder and brutal battles. Ownership changed hands numerous times between Scottish clans The Campbells and Stewarts – once as a result of a drunken bet.

It sat abandoned from around 1840 until the 1960s, when new owners fully rebuilt and restored the castle to what it is today, a private residence.

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Scarista Bus, Isle of Harris

Near Scarista Beach on the Isle of Harris lies this abandoned and derelict bus. Its history became interesting after its originally intended purpose, however.

The vehicle was donated to a local scouts group, to replace their caravan after it was badly damaged. The scouts converted the bus into a clubhouse base, installing a communal living space, a kitchen and even a bathroom.  

Ski lift, Highlands

The Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands have long been associated with hiking and skiing, and when two Swiss brothers bought the Mar Lodge Estate and attempted to turn hill Creag Bhalg into a world class resort, excitement was high.

However, due to the low altitude and therefore a lack of snow, the resort was forced to close after only two seasons.

Sunset at Airidh a’ Bhruaich, Lewis and Harris

Witnessing the sunset is one of nature's greatest spectacles, and the Outer Hebridean islands of Lewis and Harris offer arguably one of the most magnificent viewpoints on the entire British Isles. This old, abandoned farmhouse on the banks of Loch Seaforth offers one of many vantage points.

Dunskey Castle, Stranraer

Dunskey Castle sits atop a cliff overlooking the Irish Sea, near the southwest Scottish town of Portpatrick. Built in around 1510 by the Adairs of Kilhilt, the castle was remodelled in the early 17th century and in ruins by 1684.

Access is pretty difficult due to the steep rock faces, and venturing inside is prohibited, however the walk up offers some magnificent views.  

Keiss Castle, Caithness

At the top of the Scottish Highlands, not far from the UK's most northern point of John O'Groats, is this partially ruined castle. Built in the late 16th century by the 5th Earl of Caithness, George Sinclair, Keiss Castle was also used to defend nearby Caithness during World War II.

Due to the positioning of the castle, perched perilously on the edge of the cliff, visiting the ruins is not possible. The views from afar, though, are stunning.  

Arrol-Johnston Car Factory, Dumfries

Opened in 1913, this car factory on the outskirts of Dumfries established Scotland as a major car producer. It was built on American principles and modelled on the design of Henry Ford factories in Detroit, Michigan.

Its reinforced concrete and metal helped to create the perfect structure to house car manufacturing. Production ceased by the late 1920s and the factory finally closed in 1931.

Dunure Castle, South Ayrshire

Thought to be originally built in 1200, Dunure Castle sits atop a rocky outcrop on the Firth of Clyde. Home to the Kennedy family until the 18th century, the castle has a colourful history, from royal visits (Mary Queen of Scots once stayed here as a guest) to medieval torture.

Since then, Dunure has been derelict for almost 300 years, even being used as a quarry for numerous building projects in the area. These days, the castle is partly accessible to visitors.

Find out more

All images are taken with permission from the book Abandoned Scotland by Alastair Horne, published by Amber Books Ltd and available via Amazon. 

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