The 8 Best Castle Hotels in Scotland (Updated 2025)

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Ready to feel like royalty? Scotland is home to some of the dreamiest castle hotels, where you can sleep in centuries-old towers, wander lush estates, and live out your fairytale vibes. These eight incredible spots combine history, luxury, and a touch of magic. Picture cozy fireplaces, grand dining halls, and rolling countryside views straight out of a storybook. Whether it’s for a romantic escape, a friends’ trip, or just ticking “stay in a castle” off your bucket list, these Scottish gems have you covered.

• Don’t have time to read the full guide? Here are my favorite Scottish castles with availability right now!

Best castle hotels in Scotland: 8 best Scottish hotels you can stay in

It’s not every day you get to spend the night sleeping in the same rooms as the Scottish nobility. Make the most out of it by staying at one of the very best luxury castle hotels in Scotland.

1. Mansfield Castle Hotel

• 📍 Location: Tain, Scottish Highlands
• 💰 Prices From: $124 USD per night
• ✨ Top Amenities: 3 acres of picturesque countryside, award-winning restaurant with traditional Scottish cuisine, residents’ reading lounge, pet-friendly accommodations, free parking and WiFi
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: History enthusiasts, couples seeking romance, golfers exploring Highland courses, whisky lovers, wedding parties

There’s something absolutely magical about stepping into a real Victorian castle where you can actually sleep in rooms that feel like they belong in a period drama. Built in the late 1870s, the Mansfield Castle Hotel sits in a picturesque countryside with magnificent oak paneling throughout, creating an atmosphere that makes you feel like Scottish nobility. 

The breakfast here is legendary. Guests rave about it being “outstanding, one of the best breakfasts over a 6 week tour of Scotland/England/Ireland”, and I can see why with the majestic dining room setting. You can even choose between staying directly in the castle or the garden wing, both equally charming. 

Located just a few minutes drive from the famous Glenmorangie distillery and near the legendary Dornoch golf course, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the best of the Highlands. The cozy residents’ reading lounge with its period furnishings is the perfect spot to plan your Highland adventures while sipping whisky by the fire.

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2. Glenapp Castle

• 📍 Location: Ballantrae, South Ayrshire
• 💰 Prices From: $428 USD per night
• ✨ Top Amenities: 5-star Relais & Châteaux property, acres of gardens and woodland, 3 AA Rosette restaurant, 4,500 sq ft Castle Penthouse Suite, award-winning dining with kitchen gardens, Hebridean Sea Safari boat excursions, period furnishings and antiques
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Luxury seekers, couples on romantic getaways, fine dining enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, special occasion celebrations

Glenapp Castle is where fairy tales come to life. Imagine gliding up a tree-lined drive that ends at a breathtaking Scottish Baronial castle with mystical towers, all set against stunning seascapes overlooking the volcanic outcrop of Ailsa Craig. Dating back to 1870, this Relais & Châteaux property feels like stepping into a bygone era of opulence where you’re genuinely treated like royalty. 

Each of the 17 individually designed suites has its own unique combination of fabrics, art, and antiques, with many featuring cozy fireplaces for winter evenings. The award-winning restaurant is extraordinary, sourcing ingredients directly from their extensive kitchen gardens, and the dining rooms offer spectacular sea views that make every meal feel like a special occasion. 

You can explore the Hebridean islands on the castle’s own boat, try falconry on the grounds, or simply wander through 36 acres of lush gardens. Tucked in Scotland’s enchanting, lesser-traveled Southwest coast, couples particularly adore this place, rating the location an incredible 9.7 out of 10.

3. Melville Castle

• 📍 Location: Dalkeith, near Edinburgh
• 💰 Prices From: $118 USD per night
• ✨ Top Amenities: Historic 1786 architecture, Library Bar, award-winning restaurant, free parking and WiFi, pet-friendly accommodations, dramatic ornate bedrooms with original features, cozy billiards room
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Edinburgh explorers, history buffs, couples seeking romance, families wanting space, pet owners, wedding parties

Just 20 minutes from Edinburgh, this feels like discovering a secret castle retreat where you can truly disconnect from the world. Built in 1786, Melville Castle has hosted some serious VIPs including George IV, Sir Walter Scott, and Queen Victoria. What strikes you immediately is how they’ve brilliantly balanced historic grandeur with bold, contemporary interior design that could have been a disaster but works spectacularly.

The dramatic, ornate bedrooms are filled with original features and fearless patterns and colors that somehow feel perfectly at home in the castle walls. Set on a sprawling 54-acre private estate, you can stroll through grounds where horses graze and streams run through the forest.

The Library Bar is absolutely magical for evening cocktails, and the restaurant serves incredible fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. There’s even a cozy billiards room for entertainment, and the whole place is dog-friendly if you’re traveling with your furry companion.

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4. Inverlochy Castle Hotel

• 📍 Location: Fort William, Scottish Highlands
• 💰 Prices From: $403 USD per night
• ✨ Top Amenities: 19th-century baronial splendor, Albert and Michel Roux Jr restaurant with AA 3 Red Rosettes, private loch and tranquil gardens, clay pigeon shooting and archery, luxury Walled Garden rooms, helicopter and Rolls Royce transfers available
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Luxury seekers, culinary enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, couples on special occasions, royalty wannabes

This is where Queen Victoria herself fell head over heels, writing in her diary “I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot” after her 1873 visit. Nestled in the foothills of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, Inverlochy Castle Hotel is a baronial masterpiece that feels like your own private Scottish kingdom. 

What sets Inverlochy apart is the legendary Albert and Michel Roux Jr restaurant, holding AA 3 Red Rosettes and serving some of Scotland’s finest cuisine. You can choose between staying in the castle itself or the stunning Walled Garden rooms, which perfectly balance castle charm with completely updated interiors.

The activities here are incredible, from clay pigeon shooting and archery on the grounds to helicopter tours over the Highlands. Located just three miles from Fort William, you’re perfectly positioned to explore Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and the legendary Scottish Highlands while returning each evening to absolute luxury and sophistication.

5. Mingary Castle

• 📍 Location: Kilchoan, Ardnamurchan Peninsula
• 💰 Prices From: $412 USD per night
• ✨ Top Amenities: 13th-century castle on rocky outcrop, Colin Nicholson’s award-winning restaurant, daily changing 5 or 8-course tasting menus, luxurious Georgian-style suites, panoramic views over Sound of Mull, exposed stone fireplaces, Egyptian cotton sheets, private terraces and gardens
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Culinary adventurers, romantic couples, history enthusiasts, off-the-beaten-path travelers, special occasion celebrations

Mingary Castle is pretty much Scotland’s ultimate hidden gem, perched dramatically on its own rocky outcrop at the most westerly point of mainland Britain. After lying in ruins for 150 years, this 13th-century castle has been meticulously restored to create one of the most unique “restaurant with rooms” experiences in the world.

I personally like this blend of luxurious Georgian style and ancient history, welcoming as soon as you step in. The dining experience? Definitely next level. Chef Patron Colin Nicholson has created something extraordinary here, using locally sourced and foraged ingredients to showcase Scotland’s culinary masterpieces.

Each suite has its own unique character, with features like exposed stone fireplaces and wood-burning stoves that you’ll find irresistible to curl up beside. The location is breathtaking, with views across to the Isle of Mull and the Hebrides, while sitting on the coastal fringes of the massive Ardnamurchan Estate. It’s truly “in the middle of nowhere” but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

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6. Neidpath Castle Cottage

• 📍 Location: Peebles, Scottish Borders
• 💰 Prices From: $550 USD for 3-night stay
• ✨ Top Amenities: Historic 13th-century castle cottage, four-poster bed with designer fabrics, roaring log fire, fully equipped kitchen for 6, private garden overlooking River Tweed, complimentary breakfast hamper, castle tour included with week stays, Highland Soap Company products
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Romantic couples, families seeking adventure, history enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, fishermen, mountain bikers

Neidpath Castle Cottage is where fairy tale dreams meet real life adventure. Right alongside the dramatic medieval Neidpath Castle on the banks of the River Tweed, this historic cottage was once part of the castle’s defenses and later served as the castle kitchens. What makes this place absolutely magical is the central sitting room with soaring windows and open log fire that makes evenings cozier than ever.

The location is phenomenal, just a 10-minute riverside walk to the charming market town of Peebles, where Sir Walter Scott himself proclaimed one of his favorite viewpoints of the Tweed. You’re perfectly positioned for world-class mountain biking at Glentress Forest, salmon fishing right from your doorstep, or exploring the John Buchan Way. 

The cottage comes with lovely touches like Highland Soap Company products and a breakfast hamper brimming with local goodies. Stay for a week and you’ll get a complimentary bottle of wine plus a private tour of the castle where Mary Queen of Scots once slept.

7. Fonab Castle Hotel

• 📍 Location: Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands
• 💰 Prices From: $263 USD per nigh
•  ✨ Top Amenities: Refurbished 2013 5-star luxury castle, 42 individually designed rooms, Woodland Spa with indoor pool and outdoor hot tubs, two restaurants (Fonab Brasserie and Sandemans Fine Dining), Tower Suite with 7ft bed and vaulted ceiling, loch-side dining pods, Highland views and Loch Faskally waterfront
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Luxury seekers, spa enthusiasts, foodies, romantic couples, Highland explorers, golfers

Imagine yourself soaking in an outdoor hot tub while Highland scenery unfolds before your eyes, steam rising around you as you sip champagne overlooking Loch Faskally. That’s the everyday magic at Fonab Castle Hotel, completely transformed in 2013 into a luxury retreat that somehow manages to honor its heritage while feeling thoroughly contemporary. 

The Tower Suite is pure fantasy with its 7ft bed tucked under vaulted ceilings at the castle’s summit, but honestly, every room here tells its own story with individual designs that blend original features with modern touches like Egyptian cotton linens and Nespresso machines. 

Just minutes from charming Pitlochry with its festival theatre and whisky distilleries, plus easy access to golf courses and Highland adventures, you get the perfect balance of culture and wilderness. Guests consistently give this place 9.0 out of 10, with many calling it their “favorite place in all of Scotland.”

8. Cringletie House

• 📍 Location: Peebles, Scottish Borders (35 minutes from Edinburgh)
• 💰 Prices From: $320 USD per night
• ✨ Top Amenities: Historic 350-year-old walled garden • 2 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant with hand-painted ceiling • Log fires in multiple lounges • Highland cattle on grounds • Pet-friendly accommodation
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect For: Romantic couples seeking Scottish castle charm • Luxury travelers wanting award-winning dining • Dog owners (pets stay free) • History enthusiasts drawn to baronial architecture

Built in 1863 by renowned Scottish architect David Bryce, Cringletie House is a hilltop estate that feels wonderfully removed from the world yet sits just 35 minutes from Edinburgh. Each of the 13 rooms has its own personality, from romantic turrets to crackling fireplaces, and the Highland cattle grazing outside your window make for the most Scottish wake-up call imaginable. 

Guests are usually smitten with the Sutherland Restaurant’s hand-painted ceiling, which tells the love story of a couple who once called this place home. The daily-changing tasting menu showcases ingredients from their historic walled garden, which has been growing produce since 1666. 

Cringletie’s 28-acre grounds invite endless exploration, while nearby Peebles offers charming shops and the famous Tweed Valley for outdoor adventures. It’s luxury without pretension – exactly what a proper Scottish country house should be.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best castle hotels in Scotland

If you don’t count questions about what haggis tastes like or how to drown out the sound of bagpipes, then the most frequently asked questions I get about Scotland are about its castles. Below, you’ll find my answers. With this information, you should have everything you need to book a stay at one of the best Scottish castle hotels. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

How much does it cost to stay in a castle in Scotland?

Staying in a castle in Scotland is a dream for many, and the experience often comes with a wide range of prices depending on factors like location, level of luxury, and available amenities. Here’s a general breakdown of the prices for Scotland castle hotels:

1. Budget Options: Some castle hotels or B&Bs offer relatively basic rooms that can start from £100 to £200 per night. These might be smaller rooms, possibly without many of the grander amenities that other suites or rooms might offer.
2. Mid-Range Options: These are typically well-equipped rooms or suites in larger castles or manor houses. They might come with more amenities or offer a more immersive historical experience. Prices can range from £200 to £500 per night.
3. Luxury Options: For those looking for a truly royal experience, luxury castle hotels offer the grandest rooms or suites, gourmet dining, spa services, extensive grounds to explore, and more. Prices typically start at £500 per night and can go well into the thousands for the most luxurious suites or exclusive castles.
4. Exclusive Use: If you’re looking to rent an entire castle for a special occasion like a wedding, family reunion, or corporate event, prices can vary widely based on size and location. For smaller castles, you might start at £1,500 to £3,000 per night, while grander venues can cost £10,000 or more per night.
5. Self-Catering Castles or Castle Apartments: Some castles offer self-catering options, where you might rent a wing or a portion of the castle and make your meals. This can be a more budget-friendly way to experience castle living, with prices often starting from £100 to £400 per night, depending on size and location.

What is the best castle hotel in Scotland to take photos of?

Scotland is home to countless captivating castles, each with its unique charm and historical significance. However, among the best castles to stay in Scotland, the title for the most photogenic arguably goes to Glenapp Castle. Its fairytale turrets, well-manicured gardens, and scenic coastal location provide endless opportunities for breathtaking photos. The castle’s exterior exudes an otherworldly charm, while the interiors are equally alluring with period decor and opulent rooms.

Of course, choosing the most photogenic castle depends largely on individual taste and the particular atmosphere or aesthetic one is seeking to capture. Scotland’s landscape, rich with history and natural beauty, ensures that many of its castles will leave visitors reaching for their cameras, each providing a unique and unforgettable visual experience. Whether you’re staying in one of the luxury Scottish castles or merely visiting them, the photo opportunities are as varied and vibrant as the castles themselves.

Can you stay overnight in a Scottish castle?

Yes, you can stay overnight in a Scottish castle! Scotland is home to numerous historic castles that have been converted into luxury hotels, bed and breakfasts, or self-catering accommodations. Here are some things to consider when planning your stay:

1. Castle Hotels: These are the grandest options, where you can experience the royal treatment. Many castle hotels offer luxurious rooms, fine dining, spa services, and more. They often have beautifully preserved interiors that showcase the history and grandeur of the castle.
2. Bed and Breakfast Castles: These offer a more intimate and cozy experience. You’ll typically get a comfortable room and breakfast the next morning. It’s a more personal way to experience castle living.
3. Self-Catering Castles: For those who want more independence or are traveling with a group, some castles offer self-catering accommodations. This might be an apartment within the castle or even an entire wing, where you have facilities to cook for yourself.
4. Exclusive Use: If you’re looking for a venue for a special event like a wedding or a large family gathering, many castles offer the option to rent out the entire castle or a significant portion of it for exclusive use.
5. Ghostly Residents: Given their age and history, some Scottish castles come with tales of hauntings. If you’re intrigued by the supernatural, you might want to seek out one of these castles for a more thrilling overnight experience.

How are the best castle hotels in Scotland different from regular hotels?

Staying at the best luxury castle hotels in Scotland offers a unique and enchanting experience that sets it apart from a regular hotel stay. These castle hotels provide a glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Historic Ambiance: Castle hotels are often centuries-old structures, exuding a distinctive ambiance of bygone eras. Their architectural marvels, adorned with ornate furnishings and period décor, transport guests to a different time.

Exclusivity: Castle hotels tend to be smaller in size, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience. With fewer guests, the staff can focus on delivering exceptional service and attending to individual needs.

Cultural Immersion: Staying at a castle hotel immerses guests in Scottish history and traditions. Many castles are situated amidst breathtaking landscapes, providing an authentic taste of Scotland’s natural beauty.

Unique Accommodations: Castle hotels offer a variety of accommodations, from lavish suites to cozy rooms. Each room often boasts distinctive features like four-poster beds, antique furniture, and even original architectural elements.

Dining Experience: Castle hotels typically feature exceptional dining options that showcase local cuisine and ingredients. Guests can savor gourmet meals in elegant settings, often accompanied by panoramic views.

Activities and Events: These castle hotels often organize activities such as guided tours, whisky tastings, and outdoor adventures. Special events like themed dinners or traditional entertainment enhance the overall experience.

Sense of Grandeur: The grand architecture, vast grounds, and often stunning views contribute to an overall sense of grandeur, creating lasting memories.

In contrast, regular hotels prioritize modern amenities and convenience. Castle hotels offer a unique chance to step back in time. Here, you can indulge in the magic of Scotland’s history and charm.

Where can you sleep in a castle in Scotland?

Sleeping in a castle in Scotland is a dream come true for many travelers. There are plenty of options, ranging from luxurious castle hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Here are some of the most notable castles in Scotland where you can spend the night:

1. Edinburgh Castle: While you can’t stay overnight in the famous Edinburgh Castle, you can stay nearby in the Dalhousie Castle Hotel. This is a 13th-century fortress turned luxury hotel, complete with a spa and an owl who delivers your wedding ring if you decide to tie the knot there!
2. Inverlochy Castle Hotel: Located in Fort William, this 19th-century castle offers a luxurious stay surrounded by beautiful highland landscapes.
3. Glenapp Castle: This 19th-century castle in Ballantrae offers a luxurious stay with the bonus of award-winning dining.
4. Culzean Castle: Located on the Ayrshire coast, this castle offers the Eisenhower Apartment. It’s named after the former US president who stayed there. The rest of the castle is open to the public as a museum.
5. Stonefield Castle: This 19th-century gothic castle on the Kintyre peninsula offers both history and breathtaking views of Loch Fyne.
6. Fonab Castle: Located in Pitlochry, it’s a newer castle but offers all the luxury you’d expect, complete with modern amenities.
7. Ackergill Tower: This 15th-century castle located in Wick, Highland, has its private beach and offers a unique experience with a blend of history and luxury.
8. Tulloch Castle Hotel: Located in Dingwall, this castle dates back to the 12th century. It offers cozy accommodations and ghostly tales.
9. Barcaldine Castle: Located near Oban, this restored 17th-century castle offers a bed and breakfast experience in a romantic setting.
10. Dornoch Castle Hotel: Overlooking the historic town of Dornoch, this castle turned hotel offers comfort, history, and even a renowned whiskey selection.

What is the most visited castle in Scotland?

The title of the most visited castle in Scotland goes to the historic and impressive Edinburgh Castle. Positioned atop Castle Rock, this iconic fortress dominates the skyline of Edinburgh. Moreover, it serves as a symbol of Scotland’s vibrant history and heritage.

Edinburgh Castle’s strategic location makes it a focal point throughout various historical periods. This includes key roles in numerous medieval sieges and military conflicts. Today, it stands as a connection to Scotland’s past. It also houses several museums and exhibitions, including the National War Museum and the Scottish Crown Jewels.

Visitors flock to the castle to explore its ancient chambers. There, they can witness the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs. The castle also offers breathtaking views over the city, adding to its appeal.

While it is not one of the luxury Scottish castle hotels featured in this guide, its significance and array of attractions walls make Edinburgh Castle a must-visit landmark. The castle’s captivating history, stunning architecture, and the daily firing of the One o’Clock Gun are just a few of the features that continue to draw tourists from around the world.

What Scottish castle was filmed in Downton Abbey?

The stunning Scottish castle featured in the popular television series Downton Abbey is none other than Inveraray Castle. This castle, located in Argyll and Bute, served as the fictional “Duneagle Castle” in the series, as seen in the 2012 Christmas special episode.

Inveraray Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell. The castle’s neo-Gothic architecture, along with its beautiful interiors and expansive grounds, make it an ideal setting for the grandeur and elegance portrayed in Downton Abbey.

Visitors to Inveraray Castle can explore the impressive staterooms. These include the State Dining Room and Tapestry Drawing Room, both of which were used during filming. The surrounding gardens and woodlands also offer a beautiful backdrop, reflecting the classic and romantic imagery associated with the series.

Like Edinburg Castle above, Inveraray Castle isn’t featured in this guide to the best castle hotels in Scotland. That doesn’t mean it’s not still worth visiting, though. The castle’s appearance in Downton Abbey has only added to its appeal. Visitors flock here to experience a piece of the fictional world of British aristocracy as portrayed in the beloved series. Whether you’re a fan of the show or an admirer of history, Inveraray Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s heritage.

Where was Queen Elizabeth’s favorite castle?

Reportedly Queen Elizabeth’s favorite castle in Scotland was the Castle of Mey, located in Caithness. Situated on the northern coast, the Castle of Mey is the northernmost inhabited castle on the British mainland.

The Queen Mother acquired the castle in 1952, shortly after the death of her husband, King George VI. At the time, the castle was in a state of disrepair. However, she undertook a significant restoration to turn it into a comfortable residence. The Queen was known to have a deep affection for Scotland, and the Castle of Mey became her beloved retreat.

She would spend several weeks each year at the Castle of Mey, often visiting in August. Her love for the castle and the surrounding area was apparent in the way she cared for the property and engaged with the local community.

While the Castle of Mey is not featured as one of the best Scottish castle hotels in this guide, it is open to the public for visits and offers a unique insight into the personal tastes and private life of Queen Elizabeth. The castle’s charming interiors, beautiful gardens, and stunning coastal views reflect the peaceful and serene atmosphere. There’s no doubt contributed to the Queen Mother’s fondness for this Scottish treasure.

How far in advance do I need to book a room at the best castle hotels in Scotland? 

To secure a room at any of the best castle hotels in Scotland on this list, it’s advisable to book well in advance. Ideally, you should try to book several months ahead of your intended stay. These unique and sought-after accommodations tend to have limited availability due to their historical significance, charm, and exclusivity. The peak tourist seasons, such as summer and around major holidays, can see a surge in demand. This, in turn, further reduces the availability of rooms.

Booking 6-12 months ahead is a prudent timeframe, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak travel periods. This early booking ensures you have a wider selection of room types and dates to choose from. However, for special occasions or during popular events, you might even consider booking more than a year in advance to guarantee your desired room and dates.

Last-minute bookings are riskier. Availability can be extremely limited and you might miss out on the chance to experience your preferred castle hotel. By planning ahead and securing your reservation in advance, you’ll increase your chances of enjoying an enchanting Scottish vacation.