Doune Castle
Doune Castle is a stunning Medieval castle in the charming village of Doune. It lies 8 miles north-west of Stirling where the River Teith, famous for its salmon fishing flows into the River Forth. Upstream, 8 miles further north-west the town of Callander lies at the edge of the scenic Trossachs
Doune has a considerable claim to be among the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland, and is undoubtedly the finest castle of its date (late 14th century) in the country. Though apparently never completed, the surviving Castle is a building of unique and sophisticated plan, with architectural detail of notable refinement.
The site is defended on three sides by the ground sloping steeply down to the rivers, and the approach from the north is defended by earthworks. There is a superb view in every direction from the battlements. The Castle is entered through a narrow gateway and a long vaulted passageway, formerly blocked by two massive timber doors and a 'yett' (iron grille), that leads to a large central courtyard. Off this, steps lead up to the Great hall which is connected by arched servery hatches and a door to the massive kitchen. An enclosed staircase from the courtyard reaches the timber panelled Lord's hall and other apartments, which all together give a vivid impression of life in a medieval castle.
Film Location
Doune Castle has appeared numerous times in many films over many years, most recently in game of Thrones. However its probably most famous for Monty Python and the Holy Grail notably as Camelot, the Castle of Guy de Lombard (with Trojan Rabbit), Swamp Castle where Sir Lancelot causes chaos at the wedding, and Castle Anthrax where Sir Galahad has an interesting offer!
It had originally been intended to film in other locations but the Department of the Environment, which at the time looked after all castles in state care, withdrew it's permission to use it's castles two weeks before filming was due to start. Doune Castle at the time was privately owned so could be used for filming. Doune Castle is now run by historic Scotland and is a popular weding venue.
Outside filming locations were down the small hill to the left of the castle entrance(Castle of Guy de Lombard trojan rabbit), the front gate (Swamp Castle), wall to the left of the gate (swallow scene and french scene) and at the rear of the castle. For the french scenes at the beginning of the movie a fake wall was built at ground level and the camera pointed up the hill at the rear of the castle to give the appearance of height.
Interior filming locations were the entrance tunnel into the castle (Swamp Castle), the main quadrangle of the castle (Swamp Castle), in the room on the left as you enter the castle up the large staircase (Castle Anthrax with Zoot and her sister Dingo), up the stairs to room on first floor (Camelot dancing knights and Swamp Castle wedding reception). The room at the top of the tower entered by small door on the right as you go into castle (Swamp Castle Terry Jones scenes).
The scenes of the army of King Arthur drawn up for battle at the end of Monty Python and the Holy Grail were filmed near Bridge of Allen close to Dumyat Hill. Many of the extras playing the troops were students from the nearby University of Stirling.
© Copyright 2010 Stirling Council. All rights reserved.