Menstrie Castle

This is the nearest landmark to the court of Stirling, located in the village of Menstrie. Originally, the owners of the residence were the Clan MacAlister who later changed their name to Alexander. Sir William Alexander, first Earl of Stirling and first lieutenant of King James VI resided there. With a curious L shape it has always been a residence rather than a defensive building, but from its beginings it has always been called a castle. It was built in 1560 and played an important role in the English Civil War. It was burned by the royal troops sent by the first Marquis of Montrose in 1645.