{"id":3877,"date":"2026-09-23T09:50:48","date_gmt":"2026-09-23T07:50:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.brightside-travel.com\/"},"modified":"2026-09-23T09:57:36","modified_gmt":"2026-09-23T07:57:36","slug":"sleep-in-a-castle-in-scotland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.brightside-travel.com\/en\/guides\/sleep-in-a-castle-in-scotland\/","title":{"rendered":"Sleeping in a castle in Scotland: our favorite places"},"content":{"rendered":"

Spending a night in a castle is one of the most frequent dreams of our travelers. Sleeping in a castle in Scotland<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why sleep in a castle in Scotland?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our favorite castles to stay in in Scotland<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dalhousie Castle, near Edinburgh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inverlochy Castle, at the foot of Ben Nevis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Glenapp Castle, on the Ayrshire coast<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dornoch Castle, in the northern Highlands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Crossbasket Castle, near Glasgow<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How much does it cost to stay overnight in a castle in Scotland?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To place these prices within the context of a complete stay, consult our guide to budget for a trip to Scotland<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our tips for sleeping in a castle in Scotland<\/h2>\n\n\n\n