The Edinburgh Castle New Barracks, constructed between 1796 and 1799, stand as a testament to the military history of this iconic Scottish landmark. This six-story structure, the largest single building within the castle walls, was built to accommodate a field battalion of over 600 officers and men during the French Revolutionary Wars. Today, the New Barracks continue to serve as an important military facility, housing the Regimental Headquarters of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (Carabiniers and Greys).
Purpose and Capacity of the New Barracks
The primary purpose of the Edinburgh Castle New Barracks was to provide housing for a large number of soldiers and officers during the French Revolutionary Wars. The building was designed to accommodate a field battalion of over 600 officers and men, a significant increase in the castle’s military capacity.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Housing for a field battalion of over 600 officers and men during the French Revolutionary Wars |
| Capacity | Over 600 officers and men |
Construction and Design of the New Barracks
The Edinburgh Castle New Barracks were constructed between 1796 and 1799, a period of significant military activity and expansion within the castle. The building’s design features a six-story structure with a pediment at the center and balustrades linking the Roman Doric columned porch at the center with those at the ends.
Despite its functional purpose, the New Barracks were not without criticism. Sir Walter Scott, the renowned Scottish writer, famously described the building as resembling a “vulgar cotton mill,” highlighting the mixed reception the structure received from the public.
Key Design Features
- Six-story structure
- Pediment at the center
- Balustrades linking the Roman Doric columned porch at the center with those at the ends
The New Barracks in Modern Times
The Edinburgh Castle New Barracks have remained in continuous military use throughout their history. Today, the building houses the Regimental Headquarters of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Regimental Headquarters of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (Carabiniers and Greys), as well as the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum.
The presence of the New Barracks within the castle walls serves as a reminder of the ongoing military significance of Edinburgh Castle, which has played a crucial role in Scotland’s history for centuries.
Visiting the New Barracks
The Edinburgh Castle New Barracks are open to visitors as part of the castle’s tour. Visitors can explore the exterior of the building and learn about its history and the role it has played in the castle’s military operations.
It’s important to note that the interior of the New Barracks is not generally accessible to the public, as it continues to serve as an active military facility. However, the castle’s guided tours may provide opportunities to learn more about the building and its significance within the broader context of Edinburgh Castle.
Conclusion
The Edinburgh Castle New Barracks stand as a testament to the military history of this iconic Scottish landmark. Constructed in the late 18th century to accommodate a large field battalion, the building has remained in continuous military use, serving as a hub for the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
While the New Barracks may not have been universally praised for their architectural design, their enduring presence within the castle walls underscores the ongoing military significance of Edinburgh Castle. For visitors to the castle, the New Barracks offer a unique opportunity to explore the castle’s rich history and the role it has played in Scotland’s past.