Balgonie Castle

Balgonie Castle stands on the south bank of the River Leven near Milton of Balgonie, about 3.5 kilometres east of Glenrothes in Fife. The oldest part is the 14th-century keep, with later ranges added between the 15th and 18th centuries. Some sections remain as roofless ruins while the keep has been restored for modern use. The castle is protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, except for the occupied tower. It is also known for ghost stories, including the tale of a green lady. The castle’s history includes owners such as Sir Robert Lundie, who expanded it in 1496, and Field Marshal Sir Alexander Leslie, who improved the grounds and added a two-storey building. King James IV visited in 1496 and gave money to the masons. Later, the Melville family made further changes, including a grand stair built by John Mylne junior. Rob Roy MacGregor briefly captured the castle in 1716 before it was returned. Visitors enter through a 15th-century gatehouse into a courtyard with a well and surrounding buildings. The keep has vaulted floors, a hall without a fireplace, and a turnpike stair connecting upper floors. Outside, 17th-century parapet walks and cannon spouts remain. The chapel in the north range is vaulted, while other parts of the castle are ruins. Beyond the walls, remnants of a 17th-century deer park survive, with mature trees still standing.