| Renfrew Castle | |
|---|---|
| Renfrew, Renfrewshire, Scotland UK grid reference NS51346748 |
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Shown within Scotland
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| Type | Tower |
| Coordinates | NS 5134 6748 |
| Built | 12th century |
| Construction materials |
Stone |
| In use | Until 16th or 17th century |
| Current condition |
Demolished |
| Open to the public |
Private |
Renfrew Castle was a castle situated near junction of the River Clyde and White Cart upon the former river islet, known as the King's Inch, at Renfrew, Renfrewshire, Scotland. Once considered a royal castle nothing remains of the castle above ground.[1]
A castle was built in the 12th century by Walter fitz Alan, High Steward of Scotland out of wood with stone foundations after being granted lands by King David I of Scotland. The strategic location of this castle was to prevent the eastern expanison of Somerled's kingdom and from Norse invaders.[2]
Rebuilt and extended in the 13th century by James Stewart, High Steward of Scotland, it was the chief residence of Clan Stewart. It was captured by the English during the Wars of Scottish Independence and King Edward I of England gave a charter to Renfrew to Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln in 1301. After the death of Edward I, and sometime after the succession of King Edward II of England, the castle and burgh was sacked after he spent one night at the castle in 1310. Renfrew was then given in a charter by King Edward Balliol of Scotland to David de Strathbogie, Earl of Atholl in 1332. The Stewarts with the help of Sir Colin Campbell of Lochow later recaptured Renfrew Castle.[2]
King Robert III of Scotland through to King James III of Scotland resided at the castle for a period of time. The castle seems to have fallen into decay and was converted into a soap works before being demolished in the 19th century.