Hallyards Palace

Hallyards Palace stands in farmland to the north-west of Auchtertool in Fife. Once a hunting seat of Malcolm Canmore, it later became the residence of the Bishops of Dunkeld until 1539. The castle witnessed key events during the Reformation Crisis, including fighting between French troops and Scottish reformers led by William Kirkcaldy. John Knox recorded visits by James V and discussions about the murder of Cardinal Beaton within its walls. After being blown up by French troops in 1560, Mary of Guise declared her God stronger than Knox’s. The castle passed through many hands, including Sir James Kirkcaldy, the Earls of Moray, and members of the Skene family. Its name was changed to Camilla, though the reason remains unclear. By the 19th century, the Earls of Moray no longer lived there, and the building fell into ruin. In 1819, a Skene family member found it in a dilapidated state, and it was largely demolished in 1847. Today, only the remains of Hallyards Palace can be seen on farmland near Auchtertool. The site offers a quiet reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past, with traces of the once-grand structure still visible. The name Camilla persists locally, though its origins are uncertain. The ruins stand as a quiet witness to centuries of history, from royal hunts to religious conflict. Visitors can explore the remnants of the castle and imagine its former grandeur.