[1] From the early 17th century, it was home to Sir William Alexander, 1st Earl of Stirling, who was instrumental in founding the colony of Nova Scotia.

[2] The castle was restored in the 20th century, won a Civic Trust award,[3] and now incorporates holiday accommodation, private flats and museum.

He gained a place in the Royal Household of James VI, eventually becoming a member of the Privy Council of Scotland in 1615, Principal Secretary of State in 1626, and Earl of Stirling in 1633.

[6] Menstrie Castle was burned by the Royalist James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose in 1645, during the English Civil War.

A stone heraldic panel, from over the door of the demolished house, was preserved, and later built into the gable-end of the residential home now standing on the site.

The castle was purchased by George Abercromby of Tullibody House in 1719, and his family held the estate until 1924, although the buildings had begun to deteriorate from around 1750.

[8] By the end of the Second World War, the castle was in such disrepair that the Scottish actor and conservationist, Moultrie Kelsall, led a campaign to secure funding and protection to aid its restoration.

The National Trust for Scotland care for the two ground floor flats and it is open to the public (on a restricted basis by appointment).