South Lanarkshire, Scotland — A potential breakthrough has been made in the search for Eddlewood Castle, a medieval stronghold long lost to history. Volunteers from the Clutha Archaeology Group, in partnership with Archaeology Scotland and the Countryside Ranger Service, have uncovered artifacts that may indicate the location of the castle in Chatelherault Country Park near the town of Hamilton.
Key Findings at the Excavation Site
The excavation, which took place in the forested area of Chatelherault Country Park, has yielded significant finds. Among the items unearthed were:
- Cobbled surfaces: Potential evidence of structures or pathways linked to the castle’s layout.
- A potential drain: Suggesting the existence of a medieval building complex with water management systems.
- Pottery sherds: Dating back to the fourteenth or fifteenth century, these shards are believed to be of medieval origin, offering the most direct evidence to date of the site’s historical significance.
These finds, although preliminary, offer compelling clues that could lead to the discovery of Eddlewood Castle’s precise location.
Historical Context
Eddlewood Castle was reportedly dismantled in 1568, following the Battle of Langside—a pivotal event in the conflict between loyalists of Mary, Queen of Scots, and forces supporting her son, James VI. An 1889 historical account noted the dismantling of the castle, which had likely fallen into ruin after this period of turmoil.
Further supporting the excavation’s findings, a 1776 estate plan commissioned by the Duke of Hamilton has been referenced, showing a location that aligns with historical descriptions from the 16th century.
Future Excavations and Plans
Ailsa Smith, co-founder of the Clutha Archaeology Group, expressed excitement about the discovery, noting that the pottery sherds confirm the medieval nature of the site. Plans are already underway for further excavations in 2025, with hopes of uncovering additional artifacts and possibly even the castle’s wall remains.
Additionally, local residents have provided further leads, with one person reporting that construction for a nearby housing estate disturbed cut stone blocks that may have been part of the castle’s outer wall. This new information is expected to guide the team’s future investigations.
The continued search for Eddlewood Castle offers the tantalizing possibility of uncovering more details about Scotland’s medieval past, shedding light on a significant historical site that has remained elusive for centuries.
