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Rothesay Castle (HS)

Rothesay

One of Scotland’s oldest castles, with a circular wall, built in about 1230, and a moat, it was twice attacked and captured by the Vikings. Only one of the four round towers survives. Known as the Pigeon Tower, it was converted into a dovecot in the 17th century. The castle is entered by a tall gatehouse built in 1500, and restored in 1900. Inside the courtyard are the ruins of a chapel probably also built about 1500. The now open grassy courtyard would once have been filled with buildings, including a great hall, stables, byre, granary and a forge.

Opening Times

April - September: Monday - Sunday, 9.30am - last entry 6.00pm (closes at 6.30pm). October - March: Saturday - Wednesday, 9.30am - last entry 4.00pm (closes 4.30pm). Closed Thursday and Friday.