Scotland’s castles offer your clients more than just daytime tours – many Scottish castles provide unique overnight accommodation too. From 5-star castle hotels to exclusive-use properties, staying in a fairytale castle is not just a dream! Help your clients immerse themselves in Scotland’s rich heritage with an unforgettable castle stay experience.
Here are 9 fantastic castles to choose from:
1. Turin Castle, Angus
Booking Information
Turin Castle is a fabulous exclusive-use venue with 10 en-suite bedrooms. Open year-round, it provides a bespoke luxury experience for discerning clients. A private chef takes care of the catering, ensuring a tailored culinary journey for each group.
Unforgettable Activities
Guests can enjoy fishing experiences, explore the Highlands via private helicopter, embark on whisky picnic hikes, or participate in kilted yoga on the castle lawns.
History & Remarkable Facts
Turin Castle boasts a fascinating history. In the 1900s, it was relocated brick by brick, travelling 5 miles to its current location – a process that took 7 years to complete. Legend has it that every brick in the building is numbered. In medieval times, the castle was gifted to the Oliphant Clan by Robert the Bruce as a token of gratitude for their support in battle.
2. Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire
Booking Information
Glenapp Castle operates as both a hotel and an exclusive-use venue. With 21 bedrooms in total, including 17 castle bedroom suites and a magnificent 4-bedroom penthouse suite, it can accommodate up to 42 guests. The castle is open year-round and is fully serviced by a dedicated team of around 60 staff, including housekeepers, chefs, butlers, and gardeners.
Unforgettable Activities
Glenapp Castle offers an impressive array of over 70 experiences in its 2024 programme. These include country sports, cookery and golf, ensuring that every guest finds something exciting to do during their stay.
History & Remarkable Facts
One of Ayrshire’s finest castles, Glenapp is a great base for exploring this area which has links to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Robert Burns. One of the most exciting offerings by Glenapp Castle is a Hebridean Sea Safari. This five-day, four-night adventure guides guests through the islands and headlands of Scotland’s West coast.
3. Thirlestane Castle, Scottish Borders
Booking Information
Individual suites are available, or the entire castle can be booked on an exclusive-use basis. The south wing contains five luxury suites with a total of 8 bedrooms, accommodating up to 16 guests when booked together. The castle is available for bookings year-round.
Unforgettable Activities
For group and exclusive bookings, a range of activities can be arranged, including spa treatments, cocktail deliveries, falconry demonstrations, highland games, whisky tastings, and various country pursuits. Your clients can also enjoy private tours of Thirlestane Castle and the Scottish Borders. Catering options differ depending on the type of booking. Group and exclusive bookings can enjoy dining experiences in the castle’s state rooms or Victorian kitchen.
History & Remarkable Facts
Experience 400 years of history at Thirlestane, the home of the Maitland family. The castle houses one of Scotland’s most extensive family portrait collections, offering guests a unique glimpse into centuries of Scottish aristocratic life.
4. Crossbasket Castle, near Glasgow
Booking Information
Crossbasket Castle is a luxury retreat steeped in history and natural beauty. Open year-round, the castle contains 64 rooms with stunning gardens, free private parking, and a terrace. Located in High Blantyre, your clients will be within easy reach of vibrant Glasgow.
Unforgettable Activities
Guests at Crossbasket Castle can indulge in a range of activities, including spa treatments. On the culinary side, your clients will love the Michel Roux Jr Restaurant, and from late 2024, Trocadero, an immersive dining experience. Afternoon tea is a highlight here, providing a quintessential Scottish experience. The castle’s surroundings offer opportunities for your clients to explore the stunning natural landscapes in this part of Scotland.
History & Remarkable Facts
Crossbasket Castle has been meticulously restored to preserve its historical charm while offering modern luxury. The castle was once occupied and owned by Charles Macintosh – the inventor of waterproof fabric and the raincoat (hence the term rain mac!) This an ideal choice for clients seeking an authentic castle experience near Glasgow.
5. Shieldhill Castle, Lanarkshire
Booking Information
Shieldhill Castle, located near Biggar in South Lanarkshire, offers a luxurious retreat open Thursday to Sunday year-round. The property features 14 castle rooms, 10 courtyard rooms, and 4 Scandinavian lodges. The castle operates on a bed and breakfast basis, with special offers occasionally available.
Unforgettable Activities
While Shieldhill Castle doesn’t offer on-site activities, it provides a perfect base for exploring the beautiful Scottish countryside. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the Tinto View Restaurant or enjoy drinks at the Market Bar. Close to both Glasgow and Edinburgh, visitors can easily combine a peaceful castle stay with a day out in the city!
History & Remarkable Facts
The history of Shieldhill Castle dates back to the 12th century, with fascinating connections to Mary Queen of Scots and William Wallace. The castle has undergone remarkable transformations over the years, but still retains many ancient features. One intriguing aspect of Shieldhill’s heritage is the resident ghost known as the Grey Lady, adding a touch of mystery to the castle experience… The property also features a 16th-century chapel.
6. Duns Castle, Scottish Borders
Booking Information
Duns Castle is an exclusive-use venue available year-round, except for occasional family gatherings at Christmas. The castle rental includes 12 bedrooms (8 double, 3 twin, 1 single) accommodating up to 23 guests, with access to public rooms and grounds. Seven additional self-catering cottages in the grounds can house 33 more guests, bringing the total capacity to 56.
Unforgettable Activities
Duns Castle offers a wide variety of on-site activities through handpicked providers. Guests can enjoy Mini-Highland Games, falconry displays, archery, clay-pigeon shooting, foraging experiences, and murder mystery dinner events. There is also scope for firework displays, Scotch whisky tastings, casino nights, and performances by local musicians.
History & Remarkable Facts
Duns Castle was featured in the Hallmark film “A Merry Scottish Christmas” and served as a filming location for “Mrs. Brown,” starring Dame Judi Dench and Billy Connolly. These cinematic appearances have added a touch of Hollywood glamour to the castle’s rich history.
7. Carberry Tower, East Lothian
Booking Information
Carberry Tower can accommodate exclusive use, corporate events, bedroom-only stays, and special events. The property contains 30 bedrooms, ranging from classic rooms to luxury suites, with 27 double occupancy and 3 single occupancy options. Fourteen rooms can be configured as twins. The mansion is open year-round, though availability may be limited on Fridays and Saturdays due to exclusive use wedding bookings.
Unforgettable Activities
Carberry Tower’s restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, with breakfast included in all rates. Private dining options are available for more intimate gatherings. The mansion also offers traditional afternoon tea and whisky tastings.
History & Remarkable Facts
Carberry Tower was once home to Lady Mary Bowes-Lyon, aunt of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen and her sister frequently visited the estate, with many of the current rooms and suites formerly serving as guest rooms for the Royal Family. The mansion proudly displays photographs of the late Queen and her family enjoying time at Carberry and playing in the Rose Gardens, offering guests a unique glimpse into royal leisure time.
8. Fonab Castle Hotel, Perthshire
Booking Information
Fonab Castle welcomes individual travellers, multi-generational families, small high-end groups, and wedding parties. The castle offers 42 bedrooms, accommodating up to 84 guests, and is open year-round. Rates include breakfast, and the property is available for exclusive use bookings.
Unforgettable Activities
Guests can dine at the 3 AA Rosette Sandemans restaurant or enjoy relaxed meals at 1892 On The Loch. The unique Pod Experience offers intimate dining or drinks parties with stunning views over Loch Faskally. For relaxation, The Woodlands Spa features a 15-meter indoor pool and treatment rooms. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities like salmon fishing, 4×4 Land Rover experiences, archery, and clay pigeon shooting.
History & Remarkable Facts
Built in 1892 as the family home of Lt. Colonel George Glas Sandeman, Fonab Castle has a fascinating history. In 2013, it was purchased by Jed & Joanne Clark as a wedding venue for their daughter, Becky. This personal touch led to its transformation into a 5-star hotel open to the public.
9. Kinnaird Castle, Angus
Booking Information
Kinnaird Castle offers self-catering apartments that can accommodate up to 20 people across 9 bedrooms. The castle is open year-round, with high season from April to October and low season from November to March. Guests can opt for convenient breakfast or dinner packs (minimum order 4), enhancing the self-catering experience with homemade touches.
Unforgettable Activities
Seasonal shooting and fishing are available for outdoor enthusiasts. Bicycles can be hired with route maps for exploring the surrounding area. The castle grounds feature tennis courts and a lake for wild swimming. Beautiful gardens provide a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls, ensuring your clients can fully enjoy the Scottish countryside experience.
History & Remarkable Facts
Kinnaird Castle has been the ancestral home of the Carnegie family for an impressive 600 years. Currently, it is occupied by the Duke and Duchess of Fife, adding a layer of aristocratic charm to the experience.
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