The castle was the traditional place of departure from the mainland for the funeral boats carrying the kings of Scotland to burial on the holy island of Iona.

Built in 1370, it originally belonged to the Ross family. It was given to Sir Robert Boyd by King Robert the Bruce. The castle was unroofed in a storm in 1739 and has been in ruins ever since. It went through various other owners until it was "inherited" by Magnox.

The Friends of Portencross Castle are a group of individuals determined to keep the castle as a "romantic ruin" and in public hands. They were formed due to the proposal of Magnox to sell the castle to a private party. (view the text that was posted alongside the castle)

Please visit their website to see how you can help and get more information on the castle itself.