Would you like to stay in a Scottish castle? Well, you’re in luck. There are some amazing historic castles to stay at in Scotland for a luxury holiday to remember or a special celebration. Careful renovations have preserved these unique castles, towers, lodges and mansions and added contemporary luxury. Some Scottish castles to rent give you private, exclusive use of the accommodation and estate grounds. Others are better for smaller groups as you can rent just a wing of the castle. And, of course, there are smaller, affordable castles to rent too. Here’s our pick of the best self-catering castles in Scotland available for holiday rentals whatever your budget or group size.
If you’re looking for more affordable castles to stay in Scotland, then explore some of the smaller properties. They offer the same unique, luxury holiday experience but can be a cheaper option.
Freswick Castle is a stunning Grade A listed ancient tower house overlooking Freswick Bay which was built upon the foundations of a 12th century Viking settlement. Its remote location is ideal for getting away from it all with family and friends and on a clear night, the stars will amaze you. If you’re lucky, you might even see the northern lights. This unique small castle with original period features is available to rent and offers a truly special location for a holiday or celebration.
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The original house was built in 1560 and was partially destroyed in 1640 by the Duke of Argyll. The current owner has rebuilt and renovated Fortalice to create a historical home with modern comforts including underfloor heating. Set over five floors, this castle accommodation offers seven bedrooms, sleeping 16 comfortably and boasting luxurious comfort without compromising original character.
If you’re looking for a Scottish castle to celebrate a birthday or for a special intimate wedding venue, The Great Hall should fit the bill with it’s huge log fire and exquisite hand-painted ceiling. There’s also a unique chapel.
From every window, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the surrounding fields and hills which are great for walkers and runners.
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Brodie Castle is a 16th-century tower house owned set in 175 acres of parkland. This wing of the beautiful rustic castle is a truly unique holiday property set over three floors and furnished with antiques. Stay here and you’ll have access to the extensive grounds. You can explore woodland walks keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife including red squirrel, roe deer, pine marten, hare and badgers. Bird watchers will like the bird hides located by the pond.
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If you’re on a budget and looking for a cheap castle to rent in Scotland, the Preston Tower Apartment at Fyvie Castle is a budget-friendly option sleeping 12 guests. You’ll still get the feeling of grandeur that comes with staying in a Scottish castle. The only problem will be deciding who gets to sleep in the popular turret bedroom.
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Achnacloich sits in a stunning 500 acre country estate with beautiful gardens on the shores of Loch Etive. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this grand country house has wonderful views and is ideal to rent for a holiday with extended family and friends.
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Built in 1696 by the Duke of Argyll, Old Argyll House is a grand house perfect for a family reunion or intimate wedding or celebration. If you enjoy the great outdoors, you’ll love the location on the stunning Cowal Peninsula on the southern edge of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and just a few minutes from Dunoon.
But there really isn’t any need to go far as Old Argyll House enjoys breathtaking views of Holy Loch and there are some fantastic walks right from the doorstep. The current owners have beautifully and sympathetically renovated the house with a grand dining room and a games room with a billiard table. You can also relax in the sauna and the hot tub with loch views will be very popular. We think this is one of the best luxury castles to stay in Scotland.
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Although called a hotel, this impressive lodge is available to rent as a self-catering holiday house for up to 22 guests. Located in a beautiful part of the Scottish Highlands, this is perfect for a unique Christmas or summer holiday with all your favourite people.
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Cairns House is a stunning mansion which has recently been refurbished. The house has retained all it’s original architectural features but also has modern luxuries such as a home cinema and a sauna. Sleeping 55 people in its 24 individually designed bedrooms it’s perfect for large family get-togethers, holidays and weddings.
If you’re looking for castle accommodation in Scotland to host a big celebration to remember, Cairns House has it all. You can dance the night away in the wonderful grand ballroom. Outside you have 15 acres of grounds with a river, woodlands and ancient trees.
Many pieces of furniture are from London’s Savoy hotel, where they adorned some of the most luxurious accommodation in the capital.
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Kinblethmont House is a Victorian stately home surrounded by woodland and sleeping up to 28 guests. If you want to experience what it’s like to live in a stately home for a weekend or longer, take a look at this luxury self-catering holiday house near Arbroath. The mansion’s unique atmosphere is due to its Victorian period details combined with modern comforts.
Kinblethmont House offers wonderful accommodation for a castle holiday with friends and family whatever the time of year. Play croquet or badminton outside in the summer or relax on the terrace. In the winter, you can try a game of snooker or table tennis and snuggle up in front of a roaring fire with a wee dram.
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This deceptively spacious house is in a delightful position on the seafront in the coastal town of Rothesay, on the beautiful Isle of Bute. With a main house and annex, Argyle House is a wonderful place for you to spend time with friends and family and is easily accessible from Glasgow.
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There’s a great selection of castles in Scotland to hire on the Oliver’s Travels website.
We hope you like our suggestions for Scottish castle holidays. Please share any other small or large castles to stay in within the Scottish Highlands and Islands in the comments below.
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