Castle Knowe

Heritage Site in Fife

Scotland

Castle Knowe

A919 heading for Guardbridge The A919 heading southwards into Guardbridge from Leuchars. — A919 heading for Guardbridge Credit: Scott Cormie

Castle Knowe is a historic site located in Fife, Scotland. Situated atop a hill overlooking the picturesque town of Dunfermline, it is an impressive example of a medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. The castle is believed to have been built by the MacDuff family, the Earls of Fife, who held significant power and influence in the region during that time.

The castle is surrounded by a deep moat, which once served as a protective measure against potential invaders. The main entrance to the castle is accessed via a stone bridge that spans the moat. The structure itself is predominantly made of stone, with a quadrangular layout and four corner towers. The castle's architecture exhibits a mix of medieval and Renaissance influences, showcasing the various stages of its construction and subsequent renovations.

Today, Castle Knowe is classified as a heritage site, attracting visitors from all over the world who are interested in exploring Scotland's rich history. While the castle is no longer inhabited, it has been carefully preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of medieval Scottish architecture.

The castle and its surroundings offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, guided tours are available, providing visitors with detailed information about the castle's history, its former inhabitants, and the significance it held within the political and social landscape of medieval Fife.

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Castle Knowe Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.383/-2.883 or Grid Reference NO4521. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A919 heading for Guardbridge

The A919 heading southwards into Guardbridge from Leuchars.

Scott Cormie

Inner Bridge

The now pedestrianised Inner Bridge at Guardbridge, viewed from the A919 bridge over the Motray Water.

Scott Cormie

Old bridge over the Mottray Water

The old bridge, later replaced by more modern bridge to the right which carries the A919, is followed by both National Cycle Network route 1 and the Fife Coastal Path.

Oliver Dixon

The Mottray Water

A tributary of the River Eden. Looking upstream from the old bridge.

Oliver Dixon

The Green at Guardbridge

The tarmac path carries both National Cycle Network route 1 and the Fife Coastal Path.

Oliver Dixon

Path on the New Bridge

This concrete bridge carries the A919 road over the Motray Water at Inner Bridge.

Mat Fascione

The Old Bridge at Inner Bridge

This 18th century 3-span bridge carried a former road over the Motray Water.

Mat Fascione

Wastewater treatment in Guardbridge

I was impressed by the atmospheric views of the wastewater tank, it's almost scenic.

Aleks Scholz

Harvesting at Leuchars

Harvesting turnips to the south of Leuchars, with the station in the background.

Scott Cormie

Railway at Leuchars Station

The East Coast Line heading northwards into the station at Leuchars.

Scott Cormie

Road to Balmullo

Minor road heading west to Balmullo from Guardbridge.

Scott Cormie

Fields at Leuchars

Is that a giant broccoli?

Mike Pennington

Leuchars railway station

Mike Pennington

Fields near Leuchars

Mike Pennington

1B88 (43139) arriving at Leuchars

Aberdeen to Edinburgh service

Peter Moore

Main Street, Leuchars

South of the villages, Main Street passes between the married quarters and the airfield of Leuchars Station. Formerly RAF Leuchars, the station was transferred to the Army in 2015, but still operates as an active airfield. The road is followed by both National Cycle Network route 1 and the Fife Coastal Path.

Oliver Dixon