Joanna Jenkins
You might have spent your winter chasing the sun around the globe but spring is finally here. And with it, the opportunity for a bracing but beautiful UK staycation.
If you’re looking for a luxury getaway in 2025 that doesn’t involve the hassle of a long-haul flight, you might consider a stay in one of these beautiful Scottish castles.
With properties sleeping between 2 and 14 people, we have you covered for romantic getaways and extended-family catchups. Better still, we’ve included several dog-friendly options to keep you and your canine best friend relaxed and suitably pampered.
Here are just seven to choose from.
Kinnaird Castle, Angus
This 15th-century castle in Angus is home to the Duke and Duchess of Fife, who also live on site. While you might bump into the Duke and Duchess, you’ll meet few other people as the property opens to the public for only one day a year each September, and comprises just three apartments for rent:
- The Glen sleeps two but can accommodate more if your guests are willing to sleep on a sofa bed.
- Newly refurbished and delightfully modern, the Lauderdale, meanwhile, comfortably sleeps six.
- The Macduff Tower features an impressive four-poster bed and views across the deer park and grounds.
Situated midway between Aberdeen and Dundee, you’ll find easily-accessible transport links alongside natural tranquillity. The castle is also dog-friendly, with no additional charge for canine family members.
Mingary Castle, Kilchoan, Argyll
From Angus, we head to the opposite side of the country and Mingary Castle, which has the distinction of being the most westerly castle in mainland Britain. Situated on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, this 13th-century castle looks out across the water to the island of Mull.
Having undergone extensive renovation just over 10 years ago, the castle now houses a stunning restaurant and cosy rooms with thrilling views out to sea.
Expect locally sourced produce, cooked to perfection, and a holiday to remember.
There are four suites to choose from (MacDonald, MacIain, MacDougal, and McCain) but dogs are only permitted in the MacDonald Suite, with an additional £25 charge for each dog.
Thornton Castle, Laurencekirk, Aberdeenshire
Thornton Castle, just 30 miles south of Aberdeen sits in the Thornton estate on the edge of the picturesque Vale of Strathmore. You’ll find sweeping arable land, planted forests, and thriving wildlife, including a small – but growing – red squirrel population.
Back at the castle, the impressive tower wing dates back to the 12th century and houses two bedrooms, a large bathroom, and a small sitting room. You’ll also find a stunning walled garden and views stretching across the estate and surrounding countryside.
The Thornton family’s association with the castle dates back at least as far as the 13th century. Its current owners are also distantly related, thanks to the efforts of a 19th lawyer (and Thornton descendent) who sought to put the castle back into Thornton hands.
Spedlins Castle, Dumfries and Galloway
If you’re planning a group getaway, then Spedlins Castle might be the perfect choice. It sleeps 14 so there should be plenty of room for everyone.
Dating back to the 15th century, the castle later fell to ruin but was extensively and sympathetically renovated in the 1980s.
The building work left much of the building’s character but is said to have upset one resident, the ghost of miller (and former castle prisoner) James Porteous. Known to haunt the premises after dying in the castle dungeons at some point during the 17th century, there have been no reported sightings since renovations were completed.
You’ll find elegant comfort, a topiary garden, and a nearby lake for those brave enough to enjoy wild swimming. There are also plenty of local walking routes, including the Annandale Way, and country lanes said to have been travelled by Robert Burns himself.
Lews Castle, Stornoway
The beautiful town of Stornoway is the largest of the Outer Hebrides and the capital of Lewis and Harris. Lews Castle sits high above the harbour so expect incredible sea views and plenty to explore.
The castle was recently renovated, at a cost of more than £19 million and featured on the Channel 4 programme, Great British Buildings: Restoration of the Year!
The upper floors have been transformed into penthouse-style loft apartments that offer surprising modernity within the castle’s Victorian walls.
Knock Old Castle, Largs, North Ayrshire
This 14th-century castle was in ruins until a recent fairytale transformation and now sleeps up to eight people in open-plan comfort.
The main bedrooms are all housed on separate floors and there’s a rooftop balcony with sea views. A viewing room offers a panoramic sweep over land and sea, while a rooftop walkway leads into the tower where you’ll find a secluded sauna. You’ll also find a private garden and tennis court.
There’s plenty to see and do locally, with excellent transport links and world-class golf courses on your doorstep.
Leslie Castle, Insch, Aberdeenshire
Another property that has undergone a 1980s renovation, Leslie Castle dates back to the 1100s, with additions from the 17th century.
Situated just 30 miles to the northwest of Aberdeen, the small rural village of Insch offers beautiful countryside and tranquillity. It is also home to the Pictish Picardy Stone, one of the oldest-known symbol stones, likely dating back to the 7th century.
You can eat dinner in the baronial hall and then retire to the cobbled courtyard garden for drink before bed. The castle offers six rooms, two with four-poster beds.
The property allows a maximum of two pets, for an additional charge of £20 a week. It’s worth noting too that the mediaeval layout, with its spiral stone staircases and uneven floors, means that it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
