The History
Ravenstone castle was originally built in the 16th Century, in a classic 'L' plan
on 4 floors, while under the ownership of the Kennedys of Blairquhan. In 1645
the estate was acquired by the 1st Earl of Galloway, whose grandson, Robert
Stewart of Ravenstone, extended the castle by 'infilling' the 'L' plan, and
remodelling the existing structure. In 1773 the block to the east was added as
full height bowed ends.
In 1874 Ravenstone was sold to the 12th Lord Borthwick who contributed to
extending the castle further, by adding a large 'double pile' block, mirroring the
original block. The wing and later block have become destroyed, partially
being used for the renovation of the gatehouse.
Over the last 20 years a great deal has been done to stop the deterioration of
the castle and gatehouse. Currently the gatehouse is awaiting services and
interior modifications. The castle is ready for a roof and windows, the exterior
having been completely repointed, and a few concrete floors placed inside.
The water pump is expected to be in need of some renovation to put it back in
working order.
Ravenstone is a Grade A listed building, listed on 20 July 1972, reference
number 10133. It is situated in southwest Scotland, in Wigtownshire,
Dumfries and Galloway. Nearby are the towns of Newton Stewart, Wigtown
and Whithorn. The area is noted locally as being where St. Ninian started the
spread of Christianity in the British Isles.
Ravenstone castle is situated in a plot of 34 acres of woodland. This is not
known to be a conservation area as yet; however it is known that work has
been performed to keep the woods as natural woods, with footpaths for public
access.
Nearby there is a quarry, which probably supplied the stone, and a Loch,
which one assumes supplied fish and water.
Apart from this, little is known about the castle at present... but more will come
as the project progresses.
What is needed
Initial estimates to put
the main house and gatehouse into a useable state are estimated at 500,000
sterling ($750k). To restore the wing could easily take a further 1 million
sterling ($1.5 million).
In order to achieve these figures we are not relying solely on the generosity of
the Web Surfers (YOU). We shall employ an adequate mix of the following:
- Local and National Grants
- Soft loans from banks and heritage institutions
- Corporate Sponsorship
- Private Donations
- Public openings and visits
- Letting and other Revenue from the Castle
In order to achieve this we are looking to set up a charitable trust, with a
linked trading company.
Please help to restore this 16th century castle.
Contact Peter Colclough:
by Email at:biton@compuserve.com
by Phone on: 01291 641509
Intl +44 1291 641509
Please let us know:
Your type of organisation, Educational, Corporate or Private.
The reason for your interest in this type of project.
If you would like to become a 'Friend of Ravenstone'.
http://www.biton.uk.com/ravenstone/index.html
