Fincharn Castle

Fincharn Castle stands near Ford on the southwest shore of Loch Awe in Argyll and Bute. The ruins overlook the water, surrounded by quiet woodland and open hills. It is also known as Fionchairn Castle and Glassery Castle, names that appear in old records. The castle was probably built around 1240 when Alexander II granted the lands to Giolla Easbaig Mac Giolla Chríost. Later, in 1297, Alasdair Óg Mac Domhnaill wrote to Edward I about taking control of the castle from the Steward of Scotland. By 1308 or 1309, Eóin Mac Dubhghaill held the castle on behalf of the English king. The castle’s history is tied to Scotland’s struggles with England in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. It appears in letters between Scottish and English leaders, showing how control shifted during political unrest. The ruins remain a scheduled monument, protected for their historical importance. The site reflects the power struggles of the time, with castles used as strongholds for different sides. Its location near Loch Awe made it a strategic point in the region. Visitors find a quiet ruin set against the loch’s still waters and rolling hills. The remains include parts of walls and foundations from different periods. The atmosphere is peaceful, with few distractions from modern life. The castle’s past is best understood by walking among the stones and imagining the conflicts that once played out here. The surrounding landscape adds to the sense of stepping back in time.