Castle Tarbet

Castle Tarbet stands on the small island of Fidra in the Firth of Forth, off the coast of East Lothian. Built in the 12th century by John de Vaux, it was later granted to Premonstratensian monks from Dryburgh Abbey in 1220. The de Vaux family later built Dirleton Castle on the mainland as a replacement. The last recorded mention of Castle Tarbet was in 1621, when it was called the Old Castle of Eldbottle. The island itself is now a nature reserve, home to seabirds and seals. The castle’s history reflects the shifting power and religious changes of medieval Scotland. Its ruins show the remains of both the castle and a small chapel. The monks used the island for quiet reflection before moving to Dryburgh Abbey. Dirleton Castle became the family’s main stronghold, while Castle Tarbet faded from records. The site offers a glimpse into Scotland’s feudal past and monastic life. Visitors reach Fidra by boat from nearby harbours. The island has no permanent structures today, just grassy slopes and rocky shores. Seabirds nest along the cliffs, and seals often rest on the rocks. The views across the Firth of Forth include the Bass Rock and the hills of East Lothian. The ruins of Castle Tarbet lie near the shore, half-buried in grass and ivy. The island’s quiet atmosphere contrasts with the busy mainland.