EHG5047 - Building Survey - Old Wick Castle

Two phases of recording and evaluation were carried out at the Old Castle of Wick. Phase 1: A preliminary photographic record and assessment was made of surviving masonry structures on the northwest edge of the promontory to the northeast of the square tower. This was intended to provide a baseline assessment of the general condition and extent of the masonry, and to produce an elevation drawing to aid more detailed recording intended to be carried out during subsequent works. <1> Phase 2: The second phase of recording was a closer examination made possible by rope access provided by a specialist contractor. Although the date and phasing of the structures seen could not be ascertained with any certainty, it was thought that their primary function was as a revetment, with defence perhaps a secondary consideration due to the natural defences provided by the near vertical cliffs. The two areas of masonry identified at the southwest end of the cliff seem to have a close spatial relationship with the castle’s remaining tower, while the main central section of the masonry examined seems to end near the midpoint of the range of buildings extending along the promontory, which may suggest it predates the construction of at least some of those structures. <2>