Archaeology Notes

Event ID 735879

Category Descriptive Accounts

Type Archaeology Notes

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/735879

NS66NW 8.01 601 655

The final phase of development in Cathedral Square uncovered a large, stone-lined well c3.1m internal diameter and cut through the natural till to a depth of at least 11m. The lining was constructed of coursed rubble within a shaft only 0.4m to 0.6m wider on the southern side of the well. The northern side was not uncovered.

The well was located to the south of the early ringwork castle, and between the 15th century tower house and the early 16th century gatehouse. As the tower house has a small internal well, it is likely that the larger one was an addition at the time of the castle's enlargement and enclosure during the first half of the 16th century.

The well had been capped during the 19th century, and wooden bracing for ladders was still in situ. Because of this, and for reasons of safety, no attempt was made too descend the shaft.

Sponsors: SUAT, Strathclyde Regional Council.

J H McBrien 1990