Dunoon Castle history
23 July 2023
Take part in an archaeological quest to map the historic ruins of Dunoon Castle using geophysics and GPS
Sign up for hands-on workshops, enjoy a fascinating talk or enjoy family fun in Castle House Museum and Castle Gardens
This summer, a team of archaeologists will embark on a fascinating exploration of Dunoon Castle, aiming to shed light on the secrets of this enigmatic fortress. From July 21st to 23rd, utilising cutting-edge geophysics technology, they will scan the grounds to uncover hidden clues about the castle's underground remains, the historical landscape surrounding it, and its potential connections to nearby burial sites.
Organised by DigVentures with Castle House Museum and generously funded by the Castle Studies Trust, this unique initiative invites the local community to actively participate in the discovery process. Residents of Dunoon and the surrounding areas are invited to join in the excitement. A limited number of places are available for those interested in delving into the past. Participants can choose between a day dedicated to learning how to use advanced ground-scanning technology for archaeological investigations or an afternoon session focused on sketching the medieval castle remains while gaining insights into the art of "reading" historic structures.
In addition to the exciting archaeological investigations, a range of family-friendly activities will also be on offer. Visitors of all ages can participate in a delightful hide-and-seek character trail, adding a touch of adventure to the experience. Moreover, arts and crafts activities will be available, allowing participants to unleash their creativity and engage with the castle's rich history through hands-on events. These family-friendly offerings ensure that the project caters to everyone, fostering a spirit of curiosity and exploration among both young and old.
DigVentures, renowned for providing exceptional opportunities for communities to engage in archaeology, will oversee the project. Their expertise in archaeological training and events has empowered thousands of individuals worldwide to explore their shared heritage.
DigVentures’ Project Coordinator, Harriet Tatton, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "This is a unique opportunity to help solve some of the long-standing mysteries that surround Dunoon Castle. It's not often that the public gets a chance to delve into the origins of such an iconic and prominent local landmark. We are eagerly looking forward to sharing this remarkable experience with as many people as possible."
The Dunoon Community Development Trust, in collaboration with the Castle Studies Trust, has played a pivotal role in making this ambitious project a reality. Additional funding from the Dunoon Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) has contributed significantly to the project. The unwavering support of these organisations has enabled the exploration of Dunoon Castle's historical significance and its place within the community.
Claire Hallybone, Dunoon CARS Officer, is also excited to see the project come to life, stating, “It is exciting to be involved in a project that has the potential to answer so many questions about the original castle site and wider Castle Gardens. There are so many fascinating stories surrounding this place; it’ll be wonderful to see if we can piece some more of those together using the evidence gathered from the surveys and assessments being undertaken.”
To learn more about this captivating endeavour and secure your place in the exploration, follow these links and register today:
Friday 21 July - How to Record a Castle with Archaeologists
Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 July - Geophysics with Archaeologists at Dunoon Castle
About DigVentures:
DigVentures is a leading organisation specialising in providing inclusive opportunities for individuals and communities to engage in archaeology. With a global reach, DigVentures offers archaeological training, events, and immersive experiences that empower people to explore and celebrate their shared heritage.
DigVentures | Archaeology in your hands