The Best Castle Hotels in Scotland (2025)

1. Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Fort William, Highlands

Description: Set against the dramatic backdrop of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle Hotel is a stunning 19th-century castle that exudes grandeur and exclusivity. The exterior showcases classic Scottish Baronial architecture, while the interior boasts antique furniture, ornate chandeliers, and rich tapestries. Queen Victoria herself once visited the castle and described it as “a lovely and romantic spot.”

• Accommodations: 17 lavish rooms, each individually designed with classic furnishings and modern comforts.
• Dining: The hotel’s Seasgair restaurant, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr., offers fine dining with locally sourced ingredients.
• Activities: Explore the surrounding Highland scenery, take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, or enjoy trout fishing on the castle’s loch.
• Pricing: Rates start at approximately £550 per night.

2. Glenapp Castle

Ballantrae, Ayrshire

Description: Glenapp Castle is a fairy-tale retreat hidden in the lush countryside of Ayrshire. This 19th-century estate, built in the Scottish Baronial style, offers a secluded and romantic escape surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodlands.

• Accommodations: 17 exquisitely furnished rooms and suites with period décor and luxury amenities.
• Dining: The award-winning restaurant serves six-course gourmet dinners featuring fresh, seasonal produce.
• Activities: Guests can indulge in archery, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, and boat trips to the nearby Ailsa Craig.
• Pricing: Room rates start from £450 per night.

3. Dalhousie Castle

Bonnyrigg, near Edinburgh

Description: This 13th-century fortress is Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle, boasting over 700 years of history. Set on the banks of the River Esk, Dalhousie Castle blends medieval charm with modern luxury.

• Accommodations: 35 individually decorated rooms, many featuring four-poster beds and stunning river views.
• Dining: The Dungeon Restaurant offers an atmospheric medieval dining experience with traditional Scottish cuisine.
• Activities: Enjoy falconry, spa treatments, or explore nearby Edinburgh’s historic attractions.
• Pricing: Starts at approximately £250 per night.

4. Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa

Pitlochry, Perthshire

Description: Perched on the shores of Loch Faskally, this 19th-century red-brick castle has been transformed into a modern luxury retreat, blending contemporary design with its historic roots.

• Accommodations: 42 rooms and suites, combining traditional charm with sleek, modern interiors.
• Dining: Choose from fine dining at Sandeman’s Restaurant or casual meals at the Brasserie.
• Activities: Relax at the spa, enjoy whisky tastings, or explore the stunning countryside.
• Pricing: From £300 per night.

5. Tulloch Castle Hotel

Dingwall, Highlands

Description: Dating back to the 12th century, Tulloch Castle is known for its cozy interiors, antique furnishings, and ghostly tales—most notably the legend of the Green Lady.

• Accommodations: 20 en-suite bedrooms, each with its own historic character.
• Dining: The Turrets Restaurant offers hearty Scottish fare.
• Activities: Take a ghost tour, visit the Black Isle, or go whisky tasting at Glen Ord Distillery.
• Pricing: From £150 per night.

6. Mingary Castle

Kilchoan, Ardnamurchan Peninsula

Description: A beautifully restored 13th-century fortress perched on the rugged coastline, offering a mix of medieval ambiance and modern luxury.

• Accommodations: Four exclusive suites named after historic Scottish clans.
• Dining: The on-site restaurant focuses on Highland produce with a fine dining touch.
• Activities: Boat trips, wildlife spotting, and exploring Ardnamurchan’s remote beauty.
• Pricing: From £350 per night.

7. Kinnaird Castle

Brechin, Angus

Description: A grand 17th-century castle set within a vast 1,000-acre estate, ideal for those seeking a quiet and nature-filled escape.

• Accommodations: Traditional yet luxurious rooms overlooking the picturesque countryside.
• Dining: Locally sourced cuisine, often featuring fresh game and seafood.
• Activities: Wildlife spotting, fishing, and private estate tours.
• Pricing: From £250 per night.

8. The Witchery by the Castle

Edinburgh

Okay okay, - not technically a castle, but the closest you'll get to staying in Edinburgh Castle ;)

It's at the steps of the entrance...

But this place is famous for it's romance!

Description: Nestled beside Edinburgh Castle, this gothic-style hotel is renowned for its romantic, opulent interiors and candlelit charm.

• Accommodations: Lavish, velvet-draped suites with an old-world ambiance.
• Dining: The Witchery’s renowned restaurant serves decadent Scottish dishes.
• Activities: Explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and historic sites.
• Pricing: From £500 per night.

9. Crossbasket Castle

Blantyre, near Glasgow

Description: A beautifully restored 17th-century mansion that offers refined elegance and exclusive luxury.

• Accommodations: Individually styled rooms with period features and modern amenities.
• Dining: Fine dining overseen by a Michel Roux Jr. team.
• Activities: Golfing, fishing, and guided heritage tours.
• Pricing: From £300 per night.

10. Lews Castle

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Description: A Victorian-era castle with stunning sea views, providing a mix of self-catering apartments and classic rooms.

• Accommodations: Stylish rooms and luxury apartments.
• Dining: A relaxed café and dining area showcasing local produce.
• Activities: Explore the Outer Hebrides, go wildlife spotting, or visit ancient standing stones.
• Pricing: From £200 per night.

Staying in a Scottish castle hotel isn’t just about luxurious accommodations; it’s about experiencing history, breathtaking scenery, and world-class hospitality.

Whether you’re after romance, adventure, or relaxation, these castle hotels provide a truly royal experience.

So why not book a stay and step into Scotland’s past while indulging in present-day luxury?

Have you stayed in a Scottish Castle?

More Scotland inspiration:

• Places to visit in Scotland
• Scotland road trips