Sketch of Woodhead House

OUR CASTLES

Woodhead House

Woodhead House was constructed on the ancient Lennox of Woodhead lands in the Parish of Campsie, located about a mile and a half west of Lennoxtown, Scotland.

This L-shaped tower-house was constructed in 1572, replacing the even older tower of Balcorrah near the village, where the Lennox family resided before moving to Woodhead House.

In 1841, the Lennox family relocated to the newly completed Lennox Castle, sparking a debate about the fate of Woodhead House. John Kincaid-Lennox wanted to demolish it entirely, but his wife had a different idea. She proposed partially demolishing the house and leaving it as an intriguing ruin, adorning the main section with ivy and other climbing plants, creating a fascinating ancient relic.

Today, the old Woodhead House stands as an ivy-clad historical site, just across the driveway from Lennox Castle.

Kincaid House

Nestled in the heart of the Kincaid lands stands Kincaid House, a remarkable structure with a rich history. Although records indicate that a substantial part of the present building was reconstructed around 1812, its oldest section dates back to about 1670.

Interestingly, there is evidence suggesting that a structure, possibly the Old Tower of Kyncade, once stood on this very site as far back as the 12th century.

John Kincaid-Lennox entrusted the reconstruction of Kincaid House to the renowned architect David Hamilton of Glasgow, and he is chiefly credited for the style and lay-out of the house. Thanks to Hamilton's ingenuity, Kincaid House boasts a distinct charm and allure.

Today, Kincaid House has been designated as a grade ‘A’ listed country house hotel and wedding venue. Over the years, the house has undergone extensive restoration, breathing new life into this historic gem.

Photo by Top Table Photography

Lennox Castle

John Kincaid-Lennox once again enlisted the services of Glasgow architect David Hamilton to extend Woodhead House. However, Mr. Hamilton found the site and style of the existing mansion challenging. After much consideration, it was decided that constructing a castle in a Norman architectural style would be in harmony with the family's origins. Thus, the construction of Lennox Castle began, and it was completed between 1837 and 1841.

During World War I, the castle was requisitioned to serve as a military hospital, fulfilling a vital role during the war.

In 1927, George Peareth Kincaid Lennox sold the castle, along with 1,222 acres of the Lennox Kincaid estate, to establish a permanent hospital. Throughout the construction phase, the castle was utilized to house the hospital's patients. Upon its completion on September 24th, 1936, the castle transformed into the nurse's home.

Once again, during World War II, the castle was requisitioned as a military hospital, serving as a temporary arrangement that lasted for about 40 years.

Lennox Castle Hospital closed its doors in April 2002, marking the end of an era.

After its closure, Lennox Castle remained vacant until a tragic event occurred. On May 19th, 2008, the castle suffered severe damage from a devastating fire.

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