The tower (far left) was built in the 15th Century.
Living quarters (right) were added in 1760 and connected to the tower by the entrance hall (center) in the 19th Century.
The oldest is Guthrie Castle near Forfar in Angus. It was built in 1468 under a warrant granted by King James III of Scotland to his treasurer, Sir David Guthrie. Sir David was permitted to built an "iron yett (gate)" which was a symbol of trust in an era when the King wasn't anxious for his subjects to be heavily fortified. The tower has walls fourteen feet thick which discouraged invaders until the invention of modern artillery!
Nearby is the village of Guthrie with its own Kirk (church).
The Guthrie Castle is no longer owned by Guthries and is not available for normal tours. Occasionally the current owner does permit visiting Guthries to view parts of the castle grounds. We suggest inquiry at R. Doig & Son, 55/57 High Street in Forgar (DD82EP) on the current situation (since trespassing is highly frowned upon).
Gagie House near Dundee was built in 1614 and served as the dower house for the Laird-to-be. The eldest son of the Laird lived here until his father died. He then moved to the Guthrie Castle and his eldest son took up residence in the Gagie House.
It features a number of interesting and valuable family portraits that formerly graced the walls of the Guthrie Castle. They were purchased by Friends of the Guthrie Castle when they were auctioned upon the sale of the castle in 1981. Visiting Guthries that call ahead are welcomed by the current owners. Contact: Mr. France Smoor, Gagie House by Dundee, Dundee, Angus DD4OP1. Their fax: 1-382-380301. The Smoors offer Bed and Breakfast at a reasonable rate.
Torosay Castle was acquired in 1865 by Arburthnot Charles Guthrie, a wealthy London businessman. It served as his "getaway" and must have been ideal for that purpose as the castle has over 60 rooms and is surrounded by an estate of over 12,000-acres. It is located on the Isle of Mull off Scotland's western shores and is easily reached by ferry from Oban. Torosay Castle is open for touring at a very nominal fee. Contact: Torosay Castle, Craigmure, Isle of Mull, Argyl, PA656AY. Fax 1-680-812470
