Clan Strachan Bruce forces likely burned-out a timber fortress in Strachan, now called Castlehill of Strachan during the early summer of 1308 (Yeoman). Comyn, and his loyal supporters which likely included Clan Strachan, were defeated at the Battle of Inverurie (1308). After the Battle of Bannockburn (1314), the Strachans were disinherited by Robert the Bruce and the lands of Strachan were granted to Sir Alexander Fraser, thane of Cowie (1316). Before 1325, Alexander Strachan, son and heir of John Strachan of that Ilk, and his wife Christina, daughter of Maule of Panmure, was granted by Maule all his land of Carmyllie, his
Robert the Bruce eventually lifted Bruce's excommunication. In May 1328 King Edward III of England signed the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton, which recognised Scotland as an independent kingdom, and Bruce as its king. In 1325 Robert I exchanged lands at Cardross for those of Old Montrose in Angus with Sir David Graham. It was to be here that Robert would build the manor house that would serve as his favoured residence during the final years of his reign. The extant chamberlain's accounts for 1328 detail a manor house at Cardross with king's and queen's chambers and glazed windows, a chapel, kitchens, bake- and brew-houses,