The Castles of Scotland

Tirefour

Argyll & Dunbartonshire: About 2 miles north-east of Achnacroish, on south side of island of Lismore, on minor road and foot south of B8045, just north of Lynn of Lorn, at Tirefour Castle or Tirefour Broch.

Ruin or site NM 867429 OS: 49 PA34 5UL

Open: Access at all reasonable times.

Tirefour Broch or Tirefour Castle, a ruinous but impressive Iron Age broch in a beautiful spot with spectacular views, on the east side of the scenic island of Lismore in Argyll on the western seaboard of Scotland.

Tirefour Broch or Castle (© Martin Coventry)

Standing on a rocky outcrop and commanding panoramic views over Lismore and the Firth of Lorn, Tirefour Castle or Broch is an impressive and well-preserved Iron Age broch. The wall rises to over 10 foot for most of its length, and in one place survives to a height of 16 foot.

Tirefour Broch or Castle (© Martin Coventry)

Tirefour Castle (old postcard)

The inside of the broch is partly filled with debris, but a doorway in one interior face survives. The entrance and the remains of an intramural gallery can be seen, and outside the broch are two ruinous outworks defending the approach.

Tirefour Broch or Castle (© Martin Coventry)

‘Tyrfoiur’ is marked on Blaeu‘s map of Lorn and is shown as a tower or settlement on a hill. The place is believed to have been in use into the Middle Ages, and perhaps into the 16th and 17th centuries as it is in such a prominent position.

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