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A geophysical survey carried out in the grounds of Crookston Castle, with the aim of learning more about the Glasgow site’s medieval and post medieval history, has unexpectedly revealed the remains of a late prehistoric settlement, including the footprints of five roundhouses and a palisaded enclosure.
Before this project, the site’s story was only known to extend back 1,000 years to when the fortification was first established in the 1180s by the Anglo-Norman Croc family. It was subsequently rebuilt in stone early in the 15th century by Sir John Stewart of Darnley, before being besieged by James IV in 1489 after the Earl of Lennox rebelled against him.
The site had never previously undergone an in-depth investigation, and the small-scale work that had been done – including an excavation during the 1970s, for which little evidence or documentation remain, and a geophysical survey of the courtyard in 1999 – had only raised more questions. To rectify this, the Friends of Crookston Castle sought the help of Historic Environment Scotland, with funding from the Castle Studies Trust, to conduct a geophysical survey of the castle grounds last summer.
The group were hoping to learn more about the evolution of the castle and perhaps settle a longstanding myth about hidden tunnels – but they were not expecting to extend the history of the site by another 1,000 years. In fact, the survey revealed the remains of at least five late prehistoric roundhouses. Three were found in a tight cluster just to the east of the castle moat, with each structure measuring 13-14m (43-46ft) in diameter, with wall trenches roughly 1.5m (5ft) deep. These walls intersected in several places indicating that the round-houses did not coexist but instead probably represent three successive houses, speaking to the possible longevity of the site.
Just to the east was another roughly circular feature about 23m (75ft) in diameter. It has been interpreted as a possible palisaded enclosure. The arc of a probable fourth roundhouse was then found on the eastern side of the palisaded enclosure, while half of a possible fifth roundhouse – smaller than the others at only 9m (30ft) in diameter – was revealed at the north end of the survey area.
In keeping with the project’s aims, the survey also revealed new details about the castle itself. South-west of the castle, just outside the moat ditch, a series of rectangular structures were revealed surrounded by an enclosure. It is believed that these represent extramural medieval buildings that may have been part of the larger community supporting the castle and its needs. Other features found included the possible Chapel of Croc, as well as extensive evidence of coal mining. The team suggest that these coal shafts might be the origin of the tunnels legend.
These discoveries raise further questions, including whether the defensive ditch surrounding the castle – which has always appeared a bit unusual for a medieval feature – might have earlier origins linked with the prehistoric settlement. The Friends of Crookston Castle are now hoping to secure funds as well as knowledge for an excavation project. If anyone feels they can help in any way, please contact the Friends at crookston castlefriends@gmail.com.
Text: Kathryn Krakowka / Image: Friends of Crookston Castle
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