Argyll's Lodging, nestled below the magnificent Stirling Castle, is a splendid example of 17th-century Renaissance architecture in Scotland. This historic townhouse, once the opulent residence of the Earls of Stirling and later the Earls of Argyll, stands as a testament to Scotland's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Today, it is celebrated as the most important surviving townhouse of its period in Scotland, offering visitors a captivating journey through time.
The story of Argyll's Lodging begins with its original construction, believed to have been initiated by the affluent merchant John Traill. The initial structure was a modest two-storey house featuring a hall on the first floor and a kitchen on the ground floor. In 1559, Traill sold the property to Adam Erskine, the Commendator of Cambuskenneth Abbey. Erskine transformed it into a grand L-shaped tower house with four floors, complete with a small south wing and a west wing housing the kitchen.
In 1629, Sir William Alexander, a prominent figure closely associated with the Campbells of Argyll, acquired the house. Sir William, who held the title of 1st Earl of Stirling and Viscount Canada, was an influential statesman and poet. He had the house extensively remodeled, transforming it into a small palace with both public and private suites, anticipating a visit from King Charles I for his Scottish coronation in 1633. The exterior was grandly decorated, and an armorial tablet above the main entrance still bears Alexander's coat of arms, supported by a Native American and a mermaid, symbolizing his colonial ventures in Nova Scotia.
In 1666, Archibald Campbell, the 9th Earl of Argyll, acquired the house. He expanded it further, adding north and south wings and enclosing the courtyard with an elaborate entrance gate. The interior was adorned with paintings, some of which have survived to this day. However, Campbell's refusal to conform to the religious stipulations of the Test Act led to his declaration as a traitor in 1681. Despite his imprisonment and escape to the Netherlands, the house remained in the Campbell family's possession for nearly a century.
In 1746, during the Jacobite rebellion, the Duke of Cumberland took residence in the house, marking another significant chapter in its history. The house continued to be a symbol of the Campbell family's influence and resilience.
By 1764, the 4th Duke of Argyll sold the house, which eventually came into the possession of the McGregors of Balhaldie. Around 1800, the British Army acquired the property, converting it into a military hospital due to the lack of space in Stirling Castle. The house served this purpose until 1964, witnessing the expansion of the army during the Napoleonic wars.
In 1996, Historic Scotland opened Argyll's Lodging as a museum, meticulously refurnishing the rooms based on the inventory prepared by the 9th Earl of Argyll. This transformation has allowed visitors to experience the grandeur and historical significance of this remarkable townhouse.
As you step into Argyll's Lodging, you are transported back to the 17th century. The main entrance leads into the Laigh Hall on the ground floor, a space that once buzzed with the activities of household staff. The first floor of the east wing houses the High Dining Room, where grand feasts and gatherings took place. Adjacent to it is the Drawing Room, a more private space for the family.
The south wing's ground floor contains rooms for the head of the household and the eldest son, while the southeastern corner houses the Lower Dining Room. On the first floor of the south wing, you will find the Lord and Lady's Bed Chamber and My Lady's Closet, the private salon of the lady of the house, offering a glimpse into the intimate life of the household.
Argyll's Lodging stands as a living piece of history, a window into Scotland's past. Managed and maintained by Historic Scotland, it continues to fascinate visitors with its architectural elegance and storied past. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Scotland's heritage, a visit to Argyll's Lodging promises an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, Argyll's Lodging is not just a historic building; it is a symbol of the resilience and grandeur of Scotland's aristocracy. Its walls echo the tales of noble families, political intrigue, and the ever-changing tides of history. A visit to this splendid townhouse is a journey through time, offering a deeper understanding of Scotland's cultural and architectural legacy.
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