School pupils-turned-archaeologists unearth Brodick Castle’s past
The dig took place at the drawbridge leading into the battery of the castle, which was discovered by the Trust’s Archaeology team during conservation work to the castle’s exterior in 2023. It is thought that the timber drawbridge was replaced with a set of stone steps in the early 19th century; the recent excavation was to the east of the steps to try and locate their foundations and the basal courses of the adjacent battery.
A range of artefacts were discovered during the work, including a silver coin of particular significance – it has been provisionally identified as a silver half groat from the time of James VI & I. Another item of interest is a copper alloy coin, very excitedly discovered by a P7 pupil during one of our Brodick Drawbridge Dig Days, which is believed to be from the time of Charles I or II. Other finds included fragments of clay tobacco pipes, butchered animal bones, sherds of medieval and post-medieval pottery, and some large wine bottle fragments.
Derek Alexander, Head of Archaeology at the National Trust for Scotland, said: ‘We’re excited to share the discovery of a range of historical artefacts at Brodick Castle, including a 17th-century silver coin. We were fortunate to have Katharine Donaldson (Icon Bute Intern and conservator) working with us on site, who was able to clean the coin. The coin shows a thistle and crown on one side, and a rose and crown on the other – indicating a silver half groat of James VI & I.
‘In 2023, we were thrilled to discover drawbridge holes at Brodick Castle while repointing the castle’s walls. Buildings archaeology specialist Tom Addyman noticed the two vertical slots hidden beneath a layer of cement. As we dug deeper to better understand its infrastructure, we found these treasures along the way, which offer a glimpse of Brodick Castle’s rich history.
‘A particular highlight was also welcoming local pupils from Brodick, Kilmory and Corrie Primary Schools to participate in the excavation, as part of the Trust’s Brodick Drawbridge Dig Days. One P7 pupil was very excited to discover a copper alloy coin, which is the right size to be a Charles I or II.’
Ian McLelland, the National Trust for Scotland’s Regional Director for South and West, said: ‘The conservation work at Brodick Castle contributes to the Trust’s conservation goals and supports our vision to care for and share Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage. It’s thanks to the generosity of our members and supporters that our charity can continue its work to protect Scotland’s rich cultural heritage, share the fascinating stories of the special places in our care, and provide access for everyone to enjoy them.’
A 3D model of the archaeological dig at Brodick Castle can be explored on the Trust’s SketchFab page.
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