Top 7 Castles around Glenfarg
Best castles around Glenfarg are found in a scenic area known for its historical significance and natural landscape. Glenfarg, situated in Perth and Kinross, offers a blend of well-preserved historical sites and picturesque surroundings. The region is characterized by its rolling hills and proximity to significant waterways, providing a backdrop for exploring centuries of Scottish heritage. This area is home to several notable castles, each offering a distinct glimpse into Scotland's past.
Best castles around Glenfarg
- The most popular castles is View of Lochleven Castle, a viewpoint that offers views of a late 14th or early 15th century tower. It is most renowned as the place where Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned in 1567-1568.
- Another must-see spot is Falkland Palace, a historical site and royal pleasure palace. Visitors can explore Renaissance architecture, intricate wood panelling, and formal gardens, including the oldest surviving real tennis court in the world.
- Visitors also love Burleigh Castle, a castle with unusual remains. Its grounds are accessible, and the site offers insight into a 15th-century tower house and its defensive structures.
- Glenfarg is known for its L-plan tower houses, royal palaces, and island castles. These sites offer a variety of architectural styles and historical narratives to explore.
- The castles around Glenfarg are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and over 30 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Falkland Palace
Highlight • Historical Site
Inspired by the grand châteaux of France, in the 16th century James IV and his son, James V, transformed this favoured retreat of the royal Stuarts – the palace became one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland.
One of Falkland’s most famous royal residents – Mary, Queen of Scots – was enchanted with the palace, and took advantage of Falkland’s vast estate to pursue falconry and hunting, while also enjoying a game of tennis in what is now the oldest surviving real (or royal) tennis court in the world.
Today, visitors can wander through our historic orchard, complete with a living willow labyrinth, and marvel at the beauty of our formal gardens designed by Percy Cane.
Although it fell into disrepair after 1660, Falkland Palace was saved from ruin in the 19th century by the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Innovative and passionate, Bute gave the palace a new lease of life.
Intricate wood panelling, impressive painted ceilings and beautifully carved furniture provide a visually stunning insight into Bute’s artistic vision, showcasing his respect for the palace’s Renaissance roots.
Source: nts.org.uk/visit/places/falkland-palace
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View of Lochleven Castle
Highlight • Viewpoint
Mary Queen of Scots spent a year at the castle as a prisoner and was forced to abdicate before dramatically escaping.
Take a boat ride over to the castle and follow in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots and Robert the Bruce. See the tower, still largely complete, the 16th century Glassin Tower, a charming residential tower and enjoy the quiet island setting.
Visitors can enjoy the fragrance from the large beds of pink purslane in the south and east wooded walks from April to July.
2017 OPENING TIMES
25 Mar 2017 - 31 Oct 2017
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Burleigh Castle
Highlight • Castle
The grounds of the castle are accessible at all reasonable times. A sign on the door of the south west tower tells you where to find the keys that allow you to explore the interiors of both towers.
The origins of Burleigh Castle date back to 1446, when the lands hereabout were granted to Sir John Balfour of Balgarvie by James II. Some time soon afterwards the Balfour family built a tower house here, and this forms the basis of the north tower you can see today. It is likely that this first tower house stood on the west side of a courtyard surrounded by an enclosing barmkin wall, in which there would have been other buildings. Immediately to the west there is still a dip in the land that suggests there may also have been a defensive ditch or moat.
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Lochleven Castle
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Balvaird Castle
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Tips from the Community
Take advantage of the view - there aren't that many viewpoints of the castle.
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Free access, this old castle is just a short walk from Milnathort along some well managed countryside paths.
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Stopped here for soup at Campbells Cafe which was great. The Royal Palace (16 century) is impressive too.
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A short walk from the car park to see the grounds and ruins of this castle. Historic Scotland manages this site, and paid entry to the interior of the castle.
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Falkland Palace is a beautiful renaissance palace that boasts one of the oldest tennis courts in Britain. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the palace is set amongst lovely gardens. Although the building is a shell of its former glory, it's easy to see how opulent the renaissance architecture would once have been. Entrance costs £5 for adults and £4 for concessions. For more information, see: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/falkland-palace
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Falkland Palace & Garden provides a unique opportunity to explore a royal ‘pleasure palace’ with a Victorian twist. Inspired by the grand châteaux of France, in the 16th century James IV and his son, James V, transformed this favoured retreat of the royal Stuarts – the palace became one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland. One of Falkland’s most famous royal residents – Mary, Queen of Scots – was enchanted with the palace, and took advantage of Falkland’s vast estate to pursue falconry and hunting, while also enjoying a game of tennis in what is now the oldest surviving real (or royal) tennis court in the world. Today, visitors can wander through our historic orchard, complete with a living willow labyrinth, and marvel at the beauty of our formal gardens designed by Percy Cane. Although it fell into disrepair after 1660, Falkland Palace was saved from ruin in the 19th century by the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Innovative and passionate, Bute gave the palace a new lease of life. Intricate wood panelling, impressive painted ceilings and beautifully carved furniture provide a visually stunning insight into Bute’s artistic vision, showcasing his respect for the palace’s Renaissance roots. Source: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/falkland-palace
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most notable castles to visit near Glenfarg?
The region around Glenfarg offers several impressive castles. Among them are Falkland Palace, a royal pleasure palace known for its Renaissance architecture; Lochleven Castle, famous as the prison of Mary, Queen of Scots; and Balvaird Castle, a well-preserved 15th-century L-plan tower house directly in Glenfarg.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Glenfarg?
Yes, several castles near Glenfarg are suitable for families. Falkland Palace offers historic gardens, including a living willow labyrinth, and the oldest real tennis court. Lochleven Castle, situated on an island, provides an engaging boat ride experience, and its grounds are ideal for a picnic. Burleigh Castle also welcomes families to explore its grounds and historical structures.
What kind of historical significance do the castles around Glenfarg hold?
The castles in this area are rich in Scottish history. Lochleven Castle is most famous as the place where Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned and forced to abdicate. Falkland Palace was a favored royal residence of the Stuart monarchs. Balvaird Castle and Burleigh Castle offer insights into 15th and 16th-century Scottish tower house architecture and domestic life.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The Glenfarg area, with its scenic landscape, is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling opportunities. For example, there are several routes for hiking around Glenfarg, including trails near John Knox's Pulpit. If you prefer cycling, explore gravel biking routes or MTB trails in the surrounding hills.
Are there hiking trails near the castles?
Yes, there are several hiking trails in the vicinity of the castles. For instance, the area around Lochleven Castle offers scenic walks, and the broader Glenfarg region has a variety of hiking routes, ranging from easy to difficult, that allow you to explore the natural landscape alongside historical sites.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Glenfarg?
The best time to visit the castles around Glenfarg is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the castle grounds and gardens, such as those at Falkland Palace, are in full bloom. Many sites, like Lochleven Castle, also have seasonal opening times, typically from late March or April through October.
Is there parking available at the castles?
Parking availability varies by castle. For Burleigh Castle, parking can be tricky near the A911, but it's possible to find a spot clear of the road. Larger sites like Falkland Palace typically have dedicated visitor parking. It's always advisable to check specific castle websites for detailed parking information before your visit.
Can I explore the interiors of the castles, or are they mostly ruins?
Many castles offer interior access. Falkland Palace allows visitors to explore its Renaissance interiors, including intricate wood panelling and painted ceilings. Lochleven Castle's tower is largely complete and accessible via a boat ride. Burleigh Castle's grounds are accessible, and keys for interior exploration are often available nearby. Balvaird Castle is managed by Historic Environment Scotland, and paid entry allows access to its interior.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the castles?
Yes, you can find amenities near some of the castles. Falkland Palace has a cafe on-site, such as Campbells Cafe, which is popular with visitors. For other castles, nearby towns and villages like Milnathort or Kinross offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation options.
What makes Balvaird Castle unique among the castles in the area?
Balvaird Castle is a particularly well-preserved 15th-century L-plan tower house located directly in Glenfarg. It's considered an advanced structure for its time, featuring an ingenious system of stone spouts for flushing wall-closets. Its imposing position and the ruins of outbuildings within a courtyard offer a clear glimpse into medieval Scottish architecture and domestic life.
How long should I allocate for visiting the castles?
The time needed varies by castle. For a comprehensive visit to a larger site like Falkland Palace, including its gardens and interiors, you might want to allocate 2-3 hours. Visiting Lochleven Castle involves a boat ride and exploring the island, so plan for at least 2 hours. Smaller sites like Balvaird Castle or Burleigh Castle might take 1-1.5 hours to explore the grounds and available interiors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Glenfarg?
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and scenic beauty of the castles. Many appreciate the opportunity to step back in time at sites like Falkland Palace with its Renaissance architecture, or the dramatic island setting and Mary, Queen of Scots' story at Lochleven Castle. The well-preserved nature of castles like Balvaird Castle also provides a tangible connection to Scotland's past.
Most popular attractions around Glenfarg
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