Castles are often the stuff of fairytales, legends, and Hollywood movies. Imagine a Scottish Baronial castle with turrets and towers, constellations and crenelations, peat fires, and sweeping staircases designed for a grand entrance. Then replace them with spas, fitness rooms, cracking cocktails, champagne afternoon teas, first class chefs, fantastic central heating and rooms with pleasing views.
This is exactly what you will get in a Scottish castle hotel. Whether it is located by the sea, loch or mountain, you will find that the romance of centuries past endures even in the remote Scottish Highlands.
Castles are also characterised by extensive gardens, with other fun outdoor pursuits like fishing, taking a good walk or enjoying a picnic. In other words, Scotland is brimming with incredible castle hotels. There are so many that it is hard to choose the perfect ones.
So, we here are the top 10 most luxurious castle hotels in Scotland.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Queen Victoria once famously said, “I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot than the Inverlochy Castle”, where she stayed in 1873. Located near Fort William close to Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle is 5-star luxurious 19th century Scottish Castle surrounded by the mountains of Glencoe, the falls at Glen Nevis, the monument at Glenfinnanthe falls at Glen Nevis and the monument at Glenfinnan.
The hotel has 17 luxury suites, each individually designed, with color schemes ranging from deep royal reds to tasteful blue tartan. Bathrooms feature freestanding bathtubs and bespoke toiletries, while personal lounging areas overlook the castle’s private loch and 75,000 acres of private grounds.
The outdoors are fun as well, with activities such as fishing excursions on the lake, clay pigeon shooting, and off-road Land Rover experiences. Then, you can dine at Michael Roux Jr. Restaurant, where the tables, chairs, and furnishings were gifted by the King of Norway.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel
Dalhousie Castle is Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle. The hotel has a rich history as it was a stronghold of the chieftains of Clan Ramsey. It withstood a siege by King Henry IV in 1400. Mary, Queen of Scots, spent the night there while touring her kingdom. The castle was also captured by Cromwell centuries later.
With over 800 years of turbulent history, Dalhousie has been converted into a 5-star luxury hotel. Dungeon Restaurant serves up Scottish fish, steak, and cheese on candlelit tables where you will be surrounded by suits of armor and medieval weaponry.
Although the luxury suites are far from medieval, many do feature antique four-poster beds and traditional tartan furnishings. You can also enjoy at the Aqueous Spa.
Glenapp Castle Hotel
Glenapp Castle is an award-winning five star hotel in South Ayrshire, Scotland. Dating back to 1870, this castle has all the trappings of a quintessentially Scottish manor house. With 17 luxury rooms, all individually designed to reflect the baronial past of the estate, you will feel ‘at home’ whether you are travelling on your own or with a party of friends.
The Glenapp Castle Restaurant grows much of its produce on the castle grounds, while the rest is local fishermen and farmers in Ayrshire supply the rest. Hence, you are guaranteed a baronial dining experience, complete with an elaborate six-course dinner menu consisting of haggis, salmon, cod, John Dory, and more.
Also, note that Winston Churchill was a guest of the manor in 1944 where he planned the liberation of occupied Europe.
Barcaldine Castle
Barcaldine Castle is one of the ancient castles open to guests in Scottish mainland. Located on the banks of Loch Creran, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains of Glencoe.
The Barcaldine Castle was founded by the infamous “Black Duncan” Campbell in 1609. It has six rooms, two of which feature grand, four-poster oak beds, which were installed during the castle’s first 1898 renovation. The rooms still retain the traditional Scottish look, with modern luxurious amenities.
According to the website, the Barcaldine Castle is the perfect Bed and Breakfast for couples seeking a romantic break in the Scottish countryside.
Crossbasket Castle Hotel
Crossbasket Castle is a 16th century castle nestled in central Scotland. The castle was near dereliction until local businessman and art collector Steve Timoney and his wife Alison Reid-Timoney, restored it with a nine-million pound investment. With nine rooms ranging from cosy doubles to grand suites, some with fireplaces, each was designed in honour of former castle custodians. Most of the rooms rooms feature freestanding bathtubs, antique chandeliers and historic beds. The food will probably be the highlight of your stay, as you will instantly fall in love with the unique fusion of French and Scottish dishes. Crossbasket Castle is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Glasgow and beyond.
Stonefield Castle Hotel
Stonefield Castle was built in 1837, overlooking 60 acres of spectacular woodland gardens and the shores of Loch Fyne in the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert. Inside, there are 38 en suite bedrooms which have each been individually and elegantly decorated, some with breath-taking views over the gardens and Loch Fyne.
Do not also forget the Stonefield Castle Restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish or locally reared meat, made with ingredients sourced from nearby suppliers. Meanwhile, Stonefield Castle still retains most of its original character.
Sherbrooke Castle Hotel
If you are looking for a mix of the Scottish countryside and urban convenience, then the Sherbrooke Castle Hotel is the perfect fit. Located in southern Glasgow, it was originally built as a baronial mansion by one of Glasgow’s richest Victorian merchants in 1896. Despite Glasgow’s urbanisation, Sherbrooke Castle still retains its original and enduringly romantic turrets, with luxury bedrooms, a bar, restaurant, and conference facilities that can comfortably take care of up to 200 guests. This castle also makes a stunning wedding venue.
Mingary Castle Hotel
Mingary Castle has a 700-year history that has seen Vikings, sieges, royalty, assassinations and many power struggles. Perched on a dramatic, lonely, and rocky outcrop overlooking the windswept Sound of Mull in Ardnamurchan Peninsula, this is one of the best luxurious castle hotels in Scotland.
It has only four suites featuring medieval-inspired four-poster wooden beds furnished with hand-sewn curtains, quilts, and coverings. In addition,the restaurant serves up a full Scottish breakfast in the mornings and a gourmet, multi-course tasting menu in the evenings.
Mingary Castle may be remote, but you will definitely enjoy your stay.
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