Ackergill Tower

Ackergill Tower stands on the north-east coast of Scotland, four kilometres north of Wick. It is a five-storey oblong tower house built in the early 16th century. A four-storey wing was added to the rear in the early 18th century. The building overlooks Sinclair’s Bay and the North Sea. It is a Category A listed building, the highest level of protection in Scotland. The site has been occupied since the 14th century when the Keith family inherited the lands. The tower has a turbulent history tied to the Keith and Sinclair clans. In 1547 the Sinclairs seized the castle, but Mary of Guise, Regent of Scotland, returned it to the Keiths. Later, in 1597, John Keith of Subster captured the tower at night using ladders. Oliver Cromwell may have used the tower to garrison troops during his siege of Dunnottar Castle in 1651. The tower passed through legal sales and debts before being restored in the 19th century by architect David Bryce. Visitors find a grand five-storey tower with a four-storey wing at the rear. The interior includes a lean-to extension added in the 17th century and a cap-house added in the 19th century. The castle was restored and opened as a hotel after a two-year renovation. It later operated as an events and wedding venue. The setting offers views across Sinclair’s Bay and the North Sea.