The Great Hall
Built for James IV in 1511
Built for James IV in 1511
The Great Hall is one of the finest examples of a late medieval great hall in Scotland. Built for King James IV around 1511, it was designed as the principal ceremonial and banqueting hall of the castle.
The hall was constructed over 1503–1511 as part of James IV's grand programme of castle improvements. It features an impressive hammer-beam roof — the original oak timbers are among the finest of their type in Scotland. After the Reformation, it served various functions including as a barracks and hospital before being restored in the 1880s.
One of the finest medieval hammer-beam roofs in Scotland.
A spectacular collection of medieval arms and armour lining the walls.
Victorian stained glass windows depicting scenes from Scottish history.
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