Sir John de Graham’s Castle

Sir John de Graham’s Castle stands on a low mound in the Carron Valley near Stirling. Built in the 12th century, it was a square motte and bailey fortress with earth banks and a stone tower. The site once belonged to the Barony of Dundaff, controlling land and rights in the area. Sir David de Graham held the barony in 1237, and the peel tower later took its name from his descendant. Sir John de Graham fell at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, linking the castle to a famous moment in Scottish history. The castle’s ruins show the remains of a strong tower and defensive earthworks. It was the caput baronium, the chief seat of a feudal lord’s authority. The barony’s records place it among the earliest Norman-style castles in central Scotland. Its position near the River Carron gave it control over a key route. The site also reflects the power struggles of the 13th century. Visitors find grassy slopes and scattered stone foundations on a quiet hillside. The motte is still visible, though much reduced by time. The valley offers walking paths through farmland and woodland. The castle’s name recalls a knight who fought alongside William Wallace. The peaceful setting contrasts with its violent past.