Lochleven Castle
Perth and Kinross, Scotland
Key facts
- Operator
- Historic Environment Scotland
- Condition
- Partial ruin
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- Historic Scotland Explorer Pass
- Nearest station
- Lochgelly, 5.5 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
Pier Rd, Kinross KY13 8UF
Telephone 07836 313769
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
An island ruin that held Mary Queen of Scots prisoner until her escape in 1568, reachable only by a short Historic Environment Scotland ferry crossing from the loch shore. The isolation is part of the appeal - once you're there, it's just the castle, the water and the interpretation boards.
Who to know
Mary Queen of Scots · held prisoner here until her escape in 1568
Worth the trip
The boat crossing itself, followed by the dungeons and what reviewers cheerfully call the Queen's long-drop loo.
Before you go
Book the boat crossing ahead - one reviewer regretted turning up without a booking - and expect flies around the loch in summer.
Recent reviews of Lochleven Castle are all five-star, with the Mary Queen of Scots history and the boat trip across the loch to reach the island repeatedly named as highlights. Staff on the boat and at the castle are consistently described as friendly and informative. Several reviewers strongly recommend booking your boat crossing in advance rather than risking availability on the day, and one mentions that summer flies can make the woodland walk unpleasant, though this didn't spoil the overall visit.
Island prison of Mary Queen of Scots; boat access
“Fantastic little castle to visit. The trip there is by boat to the island, and the island itself is absolutely beautiful. Perfect for those who want to visit castles that are a little off the usual touristic path! Staff…”- Debbie, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Plenty of parking with clear signs and toilets nearby.” - LJ M
- Facilities
- “The castle is small but full of history and charm, with picnic spots and great views (you can even see Kinross House).” - LJ M
Common questions about Lochleven Castle
Where is Lochleven Castle?
Lochleven Castle is in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, at Pier Rd, Kinross KY13 8UF.
Do you need a ticket to visit Lochleven Castle?
Yes - Lochleven Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Historic Environment Scotland. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Lochleven Castle?
The boat crossing itself, followed by the dungeons and what reviewers cheerfully call the Queen's long-drop loo.
Is Lochleven Castle a ruin or still intact?
Lochleven Castle is a partial ruin - Island prison of Mary Queen of Scots; boat access.
