Top 10 North Coast 500 Castles

This post was most recently updated on October 4th, 2019

The North Coast 500 is a 516 mile scenic route that goes along the rugged north coast of Scotland. In recent years it has become a must drive experience and been compared to the iconic route 66 in the USA. Both locals and tourists alike come to experience the thrill of driving its small, winding, single track roads with breathtaking coastal scenery. Also known as the NC500 the route is filled with many incredible sights and must see attractions. And in this guide we will focus on the top 10 North Coast 500 Castles.  So pack your bags and buckle up for a ride of a lifetime. Let’s discover the best Scottish Castles on the North Coast 500.

The North Coast 500 Route & The North Coast 500 Map

The first thing we need to do is familiarize ourselves with the NC500 route. There really is no road named NC500 so don’t expect to find it listed on your GPS. However, the North Coast 500 route is a designated tourist route and you can pick up an official North Coast 500 map in one of the Visit Scotland tourist information centers. And since traditionally the NC500 starts and ends in Inverness this might be the best place to pick up your FREE official North Coast 500 map.

Pro Tip: If you do not want to wait to pick up your map you can view the official NC500 map here, see the sample bellow or use an interactive version on the NC500 Website. 

Top 10 North Coast 500 Castles

The North Coast 500 is a circular route and you will need to decide in which direction to drive it. Clock wise – with the advantage of driving directly on the coastal side of the route (since you will be driving on the left side of the road). Or anti-clockwise – leaving the most dramatic scenery and roads to the end.  There is much discussion of which way is best to go. However, in my opinion you really can’t go wrong with either. So for the purposes of keeping us organized, in this guide to the top North Coast 500 Castles, I will be listing them in a clockwise direction. 

1. Inverness Castle

Sitting on a cliff and overlooking the River Ness, Inverness castle is probably the most notable building in Inverness. The castle is not really open for tours.  However, you can access one of its towers to take in some impressive views of Inverness.  The viewing platform is reached by climbing 94 steps. It is not the hardest climb but it’s important to know there is no alternative. Once you reach the top there are 360 degree views of the city and beyond. For more information and to book tickets click here.

As with all castles in Scotland, Inverness Castle has a tumultuous history. And because of the city’s strategic and commercial importance it history is violent and bloody.  It endured numerous sieges and was burnt down, rebuilt and destroyed again.  Its history also involves Mary Queen of Scotts, who was refused entry when it was controlled by the Earl of Huntley. Eventually it was rebuilt as a citadel known as Fort George and then converted into the structure you see today.

Bonus Castle Near Inverness– Urquhart Castle

If you are starting in Inverness and looking to visit castles, then you might want to take a 30 min drive to explore Urquhart Castle. It is not technically a castle on the North Coast 500 route but its close enough that its worth the side trip.

Located on the banks of Loch Ness, what is left of Urquhart castle is a beauty to behold.  For some reason these ruins have a very romantic feel to them despite its 500 plus years of continuous power struggle.  It changed hands between the Scottish and the English numerous times and has a tumultuous history.  Although in ruins, the castle is great to visit. You can explore the grounds, climb the Grant Tower for amazing views, and listen to audiovisuals about its history.  Another popular activity at Urquhart? Trying to spot the Loch Ness Monster.

Pro Tip: Urquhart castle is part of Historic Environment Scotland. So if you are a member or have an Explorer Pass then you gain access to this one for free.

For more Magical Castles to visit in Scotland that are NOT on the NC500 click here

2. Ardvreck Castle

There is not much left of Ardvreck Castle but this small castle on the North Coast 500 won me over. It is in a very picturesque spot, standing on a rocky peninsula jutting out into Loch Assynt.  It may not be high up on a cliff but it is in the middle of some of the most dramatic Highland scenery. So grab your cameras for this one. This brooding castle, surrounded on 3 sides by water, and with the ever changing weather in the Highlands, lends itself beautifully to photography.

Ardvreck castle dates back to 1490 when the lands belonged to the Macleods of Assynt. And if you are interested in History then there are many historical stories involving this castle. However the most famous one involves James the Marquis of Montrose. It is said the marquis sought shelter at the castle. While he remained inside thinking he was safe he was betrayed and troops were on their way to seize him.  He was captured and held in the castle dungeon until his trial in Edinburgh where he was executed for being a royalist.

Near the Castle is Calda house. Calda house was built by the Mackenzies (who took over the lands after the Mcleods) with stones taken from the Castle. It burned down in 1737 and both the castle and house have been in ruins since. For more of what you can find in in Assynt click here

3. Hermits Castle

This castle on the North Coast 500 is probably the quirkiest castle you will visit on the route. And actually calling it a castle is quite a stretch. It is reputedly Europe’s smallest castle measuring in area at less than 10m squared. Therefore the local name of Hermit’s Castle. To me it looks more like a small concrete dwelling than a castle but who am I to argue.

Hermit’s Castle was built in 1950 by English architect David Scott. He spent months building the castle but left shortly after completion. It is said he only spent one weekend there – I wonder what that says for its comfort.  The castle was vandalized in the 1970s and the windows shattered and the door removed.  But despite it being exposed this way to the environment it is still used on occasion as a Bothy.  

How to Get to Hermit’s Castle

While the castle is small the location is grand. It is situated by Achmelvich Beach which is one of the best beaches on the NC500. Because of its size and location it is a bit difficult to find.  There are also no signs indicating there is a castle in the area so only those who know about it and are searching for it will most likely be the ones encountering it.

Even though I researched how to get to Hermits Castle I still had a hard time finding it. So I wanted to give you directions and a map so you don’t spend unnecessary time searching in the wrong direction. And while searching for it was part of the fun it should only take about 10-15 min walk from the beach. Not the 45 min hike it took me.

Click here to see the Google Map of where to find Hermits castle

The easiest way to find it is to head to the Caravan site. Go through the gate behind the main building. Head up while bearing left. Keep walking till you see the ocean.  The castle blends in with the rocks so keep your eyes open, it will eventually reveal itself. Coming from this direction what you will see first is the back of the castle.  You will have to go around to go in as the entrance is from below on the other side by the ocean.

4. Castle Varrich or Castle Bharrich

Located near the Village of Tongue castle Varrich makes for a fun little hike.  This NC500 castle sits on a high point and overlooks the Kyle of Tongue and the village of Tongue.  It is a small, ruined tower but don’t let this deter you from visiting.  The hike to get there is lovely and the views from the castle are worth it.  You can see Ben Hope, Ben Loyal, the kyle of Tongue and out to the north sea

The history of castle Varrich is a bit of a mystery.  Not much is known but a few tales and some estimated dates which also vary based on the story being told.  It is associated with The Norse and the McCays and some with the Bishop of Caithness.  For more information on how to get there you can see the detailed walk provided by Walking Highlands here.

5. Castle of Mey

The Queen Mother’s former residence and a vacation home for Charles and Camila, The Castle of Mey is worth a visit.  Usually open 7 days a week, except when Royalty is in residence, it offers guided tours lasting around 50 min. In the tours you will learn about its history and how the Queen Mother came to own the property as well as more insight into her life.

The Castle of Mey is located in Caithness and it is the most northerly Castle in mainland Britain.  It boasts incredible views across the Pentland Firth to Orkney and has gorgeous Gardens. The gardens are well protected from the severe wind and weather by a 12 foot tall stone wall.  The castle itself is constructed on a z-plan, and was built between 1566 and 1572 featuring towers and turrets that give it much character.

Also on site are a gift shop and well appointed tea room featuring daily home baked goods and savory lunches.

For admission prices and opening times and dates (including closures) please visit the Castle of May website. And if inclined to stay on property the Castle of Mey has a new luxury B&B with 10 guestrooms called The Granery where you can spend the night.

6. Bucholie Castle

Not much is known about the history of Bucholie Castle. It is another ruined castle in Scotland that is shrouded in mystery.  But I happen to have a soft spot for ruins and structures that have been left abandoned and forgotten. Especially ones that are perched on cliffs with views of the sea.   I find them in a way more beautiful that the intact ones. It leaves so much to the imagination and I just love exploring and imagining how life would have been there in its prime. Check out this magnificent Drone footage of this little hidden gem

Bucholie Castle is only 5 miles south of Duncansby Head (another must visit if in the area). This castle on the North Coast 500 is a little hidden gem with many passing right by. It is not visible from the road and requires a walk through fields ending at the seaside cliffs.  Additionally, you can no longer gain access to it safely. Therefore be careful when approaching and make sure to stay at a safe distance.

7. Old Keiss Castle

We have already established that I have a love for ruins. And Keiss castle is another of the the North Coast 500 castles that stands dramatically in ruins on a cliff-top above the sea.  It was the property of the Sinclairs and it is said to be a favorite residence of the 5th Earl of Caithness – George Sinclair of Keiss.

A newer castle was built in 1755 and this old tower was abandoned. You can get there 2 different ways.  First option is to park in town around highstreet near Keiss Harbor. You would then walk on the beach via a coastal path to the castle.  Alternatively you can park by the cemetery and walk across some fields (We did this and in hindsight I would not recommend it)

8. Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

A must visit on your NC 500 route is Castle Sinclaire Girnigoe. It is located on a long narrow peninsula that projects into Sinclair Bay and the North Sea. Castle Sinclare Gringoe is also the largest castle ruin on the North Coast 500 route. And probably my favorite of the North Coast 500 castles that are ruined. 

After parking in the designated car park (which is shared with the Lighthouse) you will come to a gate and box where you can put a voluntary entry donation. Then you will walk on a well maintained path for 10-15 min before arriving at the castle. The walk is peaceful and the scenery stunning.

It is amazing to see how it is surrounded almost on all sides by water.  Separated by the mainland by a gap or deep ravine with a rocky inlet of sea water.  The remaining separation is by a dry moat over which there was a drawbridge to the Castle. This must have given the residents and incredible defensive advantage.

What I love about this castle is how much of it is still left to explore and that it is safe to go inside. Inside you can see parts of the original castle built in 1470 and the additions that came well after.  This castle also has the honor of being listed by the World Monument Fund which is dedicated to saving the worlds most treasured places.  

9. Dunbeath Castle

Dunbeath Castle with its white washed walls and romantic turrets has a prime location overlooking the North sea.  The long driveway that leads to the house is sunk into the ground and lined with majestic trees whose branches are reaching out to touch each other.  The gardens are magnificent and well kept with a wall that protects them from the high winds.

An important thing to note with Dunbeath Castle is that it is privately held and not open to the public.  They do however by appointment only allow the public to view the gardens which I hear are impressive. So make sure to schedule your appointment ahead of time if you wish to visit. Additionally they also have lodges and cottages for rent and the property is available for weddings and events.

10. Dunrobin Castle

The final  castle on the list is Dunrobin, which is one of Britains oldest continuously inhabited houses. Dunrobin Castle is the largest in the Northern Highlands with 189 rooms and gardens that are truly magnificent. The castle itself resembles a French Château with grand and imposing conical spires.

Your entry fee allows you to tour both the inside of the castle and it gardens. It is only one fee for both and you cannot access the gardens without paying the fee.  You can however walk down the side and to the back of the castle. There you can peek through the gate to see part of the garden and the castle from a distance. It will save you the entry fee but you won’t get the full experience.

One of the unique things about this castle is that during the months of April – September they have a daily birds of prey flying demonstration. Shows are usually at 11:30 and 2:00 pm but check on the website prior to your visit. This demonstration is included with your entry fee and is definitely worth watching if you are there during one of the dates and times available. Additionally you can learn about the birds and the ancient art of falconry. 

Stay in a Castle. The Perfect North Coast 500 Accommodation

There are plenty NC500 accommodations to chose from.  You can book B&Bs, Campsites, Pods and more. But one of my favorite is staying in a castle. I already mentioned that the Castle of Mey and Dunbeath Castle have some cottages and accommodations on site. However if you want to actually stay inside a Scottish castle then you will want to look elsewhere. One castle I personally stayed at and can recommend is Tulloch Castle.

The Tulloch Castle Hotel is located outside of Inverness in Dingwall. It dates from the 12^th century and has been modernized and converted into a beautiful hotel.  However it still retains plenty of its period features including a dungeon and some ghosts!  We did not encounter any, friendly or otherwise but the ghost tour given was entertaining.

I love the fact that they are pet friendly and most importantly to us, kid friendly.  They were able to accommodate all 4 of us in one family room. Now for the negatives – it is old and unfortunately no elevator so plan to carry your luggage up the stairs. Our room was on the warm side, no air-conditioning and the fan provided did not work properly. I would not consider this a luxury hotel, however it was comfortable and a welcome respite after sleeping in a camper for so many nights. Additionally, the staff was friendly and accommodating, the food was scrumptious and overall it was a great castle stay. 

Some other castles you can stay at on or near the NC500 are: Kincraig Castle, Dornoch Castle and Mansfield Castle 

Pin Now – Top 10 North Coast 500 Castles

Hope you were able to find a few North Coast 500 castles you want to visit for yourself.  Do you have a favorite NC500 Castle? Did I miss one on the route that you have seen and enjoyed? Would love to hear from you so please leave a comment below or feel free to be social with my on Instagram or Facebook.