Claypotts Castle
Dundee City, Scotland
Key facts
- Operator
- Historic Environment Scotland
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Limited tour days
- Entry pass
- Historic Scotland Explorer Pass
- Nearest station
- Broughty Ferry, 0.9 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
64 Claypotts Rd, Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1LH
Telephone 01241 878756
A distinctive twin-towered tower house on the edge of Dundee, its interior open free to the public on just four days a year and viewable from outside the rest of the time. Reviewers who've caught an open day rate its unpolished, no-frills character above some of the more manicured castles further north.
Worth the trip
The twin-tower design - a genuinely distinctive silhouette that reviewers say stands out even among Scotland's many tower houses, whether you catch it open or not.
Before you go
The interior is only accessible on four specific dates each year, so check Historic Environment Scotland's calendar well in advance if seeing inside matters - the rest of the time this is an exterior-only stop, which still takes in a small garden by the front lawn.
Reviewers consistently admire Claypotts Castle's distinctive twin-tower design and 16th-century character, and several note that entry is free but only available on a handful of open days each year, so timing a visit matters. Those who got inside praise the raw, unrestored feel of the rooms and friendly, knowledgeable volunteer staff, while the exterior and small garden remain viewable at any time even when closed.
Interior open free on four dates yearly; exterior year-round
“Great to visit here today. Was telling the wains all the history of the castle including how the likes of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce won the WWE Tag Team World Championship here in 1314. Highly recommend for a…”- Abbey Wallace, visitor review
Common questions about Claypotts Castle
Where is Claypotts Castle?
Claypotts Castle is in Dundee City, Scotland, at 64 Claypotts Rd, Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1LH.
How do you visit Claypotts Castle?
Claypotts Castle opens on limited tour days rather than every day, and is looked after by Historic Environment Scotland. Because the dates are restricted, check the official site and book ahead before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Claypotts Castle?
The twin-tower design - a genuinely distinctive silhouette that reviewers say stands out even among Scotland's many tower houses, whether you catch it open or not.
Is Claypotts Castle a ruin or still intact?
Claypotts Castle is largely intact - Interior open free on four dates yearly; exterior year-round.
