Following the forfeiture of the MacDonald estates in the early 18th century, the lands of Glencrave passed through various hands, eventually falling under the control of the Campbell family, the traditional rivals of the MacDonalds. The Campbells, already ensconced in their own seats of power, had no need for a remote, partially dismantled tower house.

Glencarva Castle, with its rich and complex history, stands as a testament to Scotland's turbulent past. From its early days as a stronghold for the Carver family to its role in the Wars of Scottish Independence and the reign of Mary Queen of Scots, Glencarva Castle has played a significant part in shaping Scotland's story. If you're interested in history, architecture, or simply want to explore one of Scotland's most fascinating castles, Glencarva Castle is a must-visit destination.

Today, Glencrave Castle stands as a scheduled monument, protected by law from further disturbance. It is a shell of its former self, roofless and floorless, with ivy climbing the stubborn grey walls.

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The origins of Glencrave Castle date back to the late 15th century, a period characterized by the unruly independence of the Highland clans. The castle was constructed by the MacDonalds, specifically a cadet branch of the powerful Lords of the Isles. In an era where "castle" often meant a stark, vertical military keep, Glencrave was designed with a different purpose in mind.

Unlike other castles that were burnt to the ground or blown up with gunpowder (such as nearby Ruthven Barracks or Eilean Donan), Glencrave was confiscated and stripped of its assets. The roof was removed—a common tactic known as "slating" to make the building uninhabitable and useless to rebels. This marked the end of Glencrave as a noble residence. Without a roof, the interior quickly succumbed to the harsh Highland weather.

Glencarva Castle's history became intertwined with that of Mary Queen of Scots. In 1567, the castle was seized by James VI of Scotland (Mary's son), who suspected that his mother was plotting against him. Mary, who had been forced to abdicate, was imprisoned in Lochleven Castle, but Glencarva Castle remained a key stronghold for her supporters.

During the Wars of Scottish Independence, Glencarva Castle played a pivotal role. In 1296, Edward I of England, also known as "Longshanks," invaded Scotland, and Glencarva Castle was one of the many Scottish strongholds that fell to the English. The castle changed hands several times during the conflict, with both the Scots and English vying for control.