Sleeping in a castle in Scotland: our favorite places

Spending a night in a castle is one of the most frequent dreams of our travelers. Sleeping in a castle in Scotland Yet it's accessible: several fortresses and historic residences have been converted into hotels, from simple village castles to Highland palaces. Based in Edinburgh since 2012, we share our favorite addresses and tips for choosing the right one.

In short: Several historic castles in Scotland have been converted into hotels, dating from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Our recommendations include Dalhousie Castle near Edinburgh, Inverlochy at the foot of Ben Nevis, Glenapp, Dornoch, and Crossbasket. Budget: often several hundred pounds per night in the most prestigious castles. Tip: book several months in advance, as these hotels have limited rooms.

Why sleep in a castle in Scotland?

First, Scotland has hundreds of castles, some of which have been inhabited since the Middle Ages. Sleeping in one allows you to experience history from the inside: spiral staircases, large fireplaces, vaulted rooms and views of the lochs.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Sleeping in a castle in Scotland: our favorite places "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In a castle, you look first…

The history of the placeThe architecture and decor

Question 2 of 5

Would you prefer to visit…

A must-haveA more discreet location

Question 3 of 5

During the visit?

With a guideAt your own pace

Question 4 of 5

Which setting appeals to you the most?

An impressive fortressA house with beautiful gardens

Question 5 of 5

What do you like to feel?

Understanding what happened hereTo transport you to another era

It is also an ideal setting for a special occasion. A honeymoon, an anniversary, or a marriage proposal takes on a whole new dimension in such a setting.

Our favorite castles to stay in in Scotland

Dalhousie Castle, near Edinburgh

Built in the 13th century, Dalhousie Castle claims the title of Scotland's oldest inhabited castle. It is located in Bonnyrigg, about twenty minutes from Edinburgh city centre. Its vaulted cellars house a restaurant, and the estate offers falconry demonstrations, presented on the castle site.

Inverlochy Castle, at the foot of Ben Nevis

Further north, near Fort William, this 19th-century castle overlooks a park with mountain views. It has only about twenty classically decorated rooms and a gourmet restaurant. It's a perfect base for exploring Glencoe and the Isles route.

Glenapp Castle, on the Ayrshire coast

In the southwest, however, this Scottish baronial-style castle, built in the 1860s, overlooks the sea opposite Ailsa Craig Island. Its gardens are superb in spring, and the place is particularly popular with couples.

Dornoch Castle, in the northern Highlands

In the heart of Dornoch village, this former bishop's palace houses a charming hotel, renowned for its whisky bar. It's an ideal stop on the North Coast 500, near the famous Royal Dornoch golf course.

Crossbasket Castle, near Glasgow

Finally, less than half an hour from Glasgow, this castle offers a handful of richly decorated suites. It's well-suited for a first or last night before a flight from Glasgow.

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

Of course, prices vary considerably depending on the season and level of comfort. The most prestigious castles often cost several hundred pounds per night, breakfast included. Simpler options, such as some castles converted into B&Bs or self-catering cottages, remain more affordable.

To place these prices within the context of a complete stay, consult our guide to budget for a trip to Scotland.

Our tips for sleeping in a castle in Scotland

• Book several months in advance for the summer: these hotels have few rooms.
• Check the location: an isolated castle often requires a car for dinner or to visit the surrounding area.
• Plan for one night in a luxury hotel, and the rest of the trip in charming B&Bs, to keep the budget under control.
• Request a room in the older section if you really want the historical atmosphere.
• Finally, think about winter: fireplaces and living rooms take on their full meaning from November to March.

For other types of accommodation, see our guide to...’accommodation in the UK.

Combine a night in a castle with a trip to Scotland

In practice, a night in the castle can easily be incorporated into a larger itinerary. For example, you could start with Edinburgh and Dalhousie, then head to the Highlands and Inverlochy, and finally end with the Isle of Skye.

For couples, our guide to honeymoon in Scotland offers other ideas, and our most beautiful castles in Scotland show those to visit during the day.

Frequently asked questions about staying in a castle in Scotland

Is it really possible to sleep in a castle in Scotland?

Yes. Indeed, several historic castles now operate as hotels, from Dalhousie near Edinburgh to Inverlochy at the foot of Ben Nevis.

What is the oldest castle in Scotland where you can stay overnight?

Dalhousie Castle, built in the 13th century, claims the title of Scotland's oldest inhabited castle.

Do you need to book far in advance?

Yes, especially from May to September and for weekends. These hotels often only have ten or twenty rooms.

Which season is best for a night in the castle?

Summer offers long days and gardens in bloom. Winter, on the other hand, provides a more intimate atmosphere, with fireplaces and often lower prices.

Sleep in a castle with Brightside Travel

Our team knows these addresses and reserves the best rooms for you. We also offer a trip Highland castles and the world of Outlander, or a tailor-made trip to Scotland with one or more nights at the castle.

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