Gardyne Castle

Gardyne Castle was built in 1468 by the Gardynes of Gardyne a family who were the major landowners in East Angus at this time. The site lies 1¼ miles (2 km) south-west of Friockheim and 3 miles (5 km) east of Letham. The building is a typical 15 century tower house originally an oblong tower, which was extended to the east in the 16th century almost doubling its length.

Two bartizans lie above the west wall and the stair-tower which once occupied the eastern corner now lies in middle of the south-east facade, with a watch-tower corbelled-out above.

The Gardyne family fell out with their neighbours the Guthries of Guthrie Castle and they continued a feud over a number of generations. The Guthries and the Gardynes disturbed the peace to such an extent, despite marrying into each others families to try to end the feud, that in 1632 James VI confiscated the lands of both families as a punishment. The Guthries bought back Guthrie Castle whilst the Gardynes remained on their land and moved to a secondary residence called Middleton.

By 1682, the castle was the property of the Lyles of Dysart and it remained in their hands until the 20th century.

Gardyne Castle has been renovated and remains a family home