Updated: 31 August 2025
admin posted: 5 July 2025
Would you like to stay in a Scottish castle? Well, you’re in luck as it’s easy to rent a castle in Scotland. There are some amazing historic castles you can hire for a luxury holiday to remember or a special celebration. Careful renovations have preserved these unique castles, towers, lodges, mansions and country houses and added contemporary luxury. Some luxury Scottish castles to rent give you private, exclusive use of the accommodation and estate grounds. Others are better for smaller groups as you can hire just a wing of the castle or a tower. And, of course, there are smaller, affordable castles to rent too. Here’s our pick of the best self-catering castles in Scotland for holiday rentals whatever your budget, group size, whether you want to stay for a weekend, a week or longer.
If you’re looking for more affordable castles to stay in Scotland, then explore some of the smaller properties. They offer the same unique, Scottish castle luxury holiday experience but can be a cheaper option.
Freswick Castle is a stunning Grade A listed ancient tower house overlooking Freswick Bay which was built upon the foundations of a 12th century Viking settlement. Its remote location is ideal for getting away from it all with family and friends and on a clear night, the stars will amaze you. If you’re lucky, you might even see the northern lights. Rent this unique small castle with original period features in a truly special location for a holiday or celebration.
For more info and photos and to book, visit the website
Enter this 19th-century courtyard bothy through its unique castellated tower courtyard which gives this historic property a small castle feeling but at a more affordable price making it ideal for a romantic break.
It’s situated on the west coast of Arran less than a mile from Machrie Bay with its long, sandy beach, standing stones, tearoom and golf course. After a busy day exploring, return home and relax in front of the open fire or enjoy a spot of stargazing before falling asleep in one of the two zip-and-link super-king bedrooms.
Next to the Courtyard Bothy above is this luxury 19th-century tower house with stunning views across countryside and sea. Take your favourite bottle up onto the roof terrace to enjoy the views towards the Kintyre Peninsula. Originally built for the Duke of Hamilton, this historic tower resembles a castle with its arrow slit windows, castle-like walls and the arched entranceway.
Visit the website to find out more
The original house was built in 1560 and was partially destroyed in 1640 by the Duke of Argyll. The current owner has rebuilt and renovated Fortalice to create a historical home with modern comforts including underfloor heating. Set over five floors, this castle accommodation offers seven bedrooms, sleeping 16 comfortably and boasting luxurious comfort without compromising original character.
If you’re looking to hire a Scottish castle to celebrate a birthday or for a special intimate wedding venue, The Great Hall should fit the bill with it’s huge log fire and exquisite hand-painted ceiling. There’s also a unique chapel.
From every window, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the surrounding fields and hills which are great for walkers and runners.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
Brodie Castle is a 16th-century tower house owned set in 175 acres of parkland. This wing of the beautiful rustic castle offers truly unique self-catering holiday accommodation set over three floors and furnished with antiques. Stay here and you’ll have access to the extensive castle grounds. Wander along woodland walks keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife including red squirrel, roe deer, pine marten, hare and badgers. Bird watchers will like the bird hides located by the pond.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
This fairy tale castle dates back to the 14th century and really has it all if you want a relaxing holiday in a unique property. Relax in the garden hot tub or seek out the sauna which is secreted in one of the many turrets. From your door, you can explore hundreds of miles of countryside on foot or by bike. For a small castle, it offers a lot. Rent this small castle if you want somewhere quirky and luxurious with sea views over to the Isles of Arran and Bute.
Visit the website for more info or take a look at our best hot tub holidays in Scotland.
If you’re on a budget and looking for a cheap castle to rent in Scotland, the Preston Tower Apartment at Fyvie Castle is an affordable option sleeping 12 guests. You’ll still get the feeling of grandeur that comes with staying in a Scottish castle. The only problem will be deciding who gets to sleep in the popular turret bedroom.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
Another affordable option is this A-listed historic small castle to rent in Doune which also sleeps 12. Enter this impressive 700-year-old castle and you are following in the steps of royalty. When Outlander was filmed at Doune Castle, the cast and crew stayed here. Situated just across from the medieval Doune Castle, this property has a large walled garden where you can sit out on a calm clear night and enjoy stargazing. Explore Stirling, 8.5 miles away, with its own famous castle perched high up on the rocks.
Visit the website for more info or to book
This small but spacious castle has wonderful period features, open fires & four-poster beds. Challenge your family and friends in the games room with a roulette table, chess and poker, 6ft foldable snooker/pool table or explore the 8 acres of grounds with its well-established woodland. Explore the Kintyre Way, golf at Machrihanish Golf Course or go surfing at Westport Beach.
Visit the website to find out more
Achnacloich sits in a stunning 500 acre country estate with beautiful gardens on the shores of Loch Etive. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this grand country house has wonderful views and is the ideal castle to rent for a holiday with extended family and friends.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
Built in 1696 by the Duke of Argyll, Old Argyll House is a grand house perfect for a family reunion or intimate wedding or celebration. If you enjoy the great outdoors, you’ll love the location on the stunning Cowal Peninsula at the southern edge of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and just a few minutes from Dunoon.
But there really isn’t any need to go far as Old Argyll House enjoys breathtaking views of Holy Loch and there are some fantastic walks right from the doorstep. The current owners have beautifully and sympathetically renovated the house with a grand dining room and a games room with a billiard table. You can also relax in the sauna and the hot tub with loch views will be very popular. We think this is one of the best luxury castles to stay in Scotland.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
Although called a hotel, this impressive lodge is available to rent as a self-catering holiday house for up to 22 guests. Located in a beautiful part of the Scottish Highlands, this is perfect for a unique Christmas or summer holiday with all your favourite people.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
So this isn’t strictly a castle but it is a grand country house in a stunning lochside location with a tower and a courtyard making it a great holiday accommodation. Just sit back and enjoy the views, challenge your family to a game of tennis, take a boat trip or fish for salmon and trout.
Visit the website for more info
Cairns House is a stunning mansion which has recently been refurbished. The house has retained all it’s original architectural features but also has modern luxuries such as a home cinema and a sauna. Sleeping 55 people in its 24 individually designed bedrooms it’s perfect for large family get-togethers, holidays and weddings.
If you’re looking to rent luxury castle accommodation in Scotland to host a big celebration to remember, Cairns House has it all. You can dance the night away in the wonderful grand ballroom. Outside you have 15 acres of grounds with a river, woodlands and ancient trees.
Many pieces of furniture are from London’s Savoy hotel, where they adorned some of the most luxurious accommodation in the capital.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
Kinblethmont House is a Victorian stately home surrounded by woodland and sleeping up to 28 guests near Arbroath. If you want to experience living in a stately home for a weekend or longer, stay at this luxury self-catering country house. The mansion’s unique atmosphere is due to its Victorian period details combined with modern comforts.
Kinblethmont House offers wonderful country house accommodation for a holiday with friends and family whatever the time of year. Play croquet or badminton outside in the summer or relax on the terrace. In the winter, try a game of snooker or table tennis and snuggle up in front of a roaring fire with a wee dram.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
This deceptively spacious house is on the seafront in the town of Rothesay, on the beautiful Isle of Bute. With a main house and annex, Argyle House is a wonderful place for you to spend time with friends and family and is easily accessible from Glasgow.
Visit the website for more info and photos or to book
Looking for more Scottish castles to rent for a holiday? Browse the great selection of country houses and castles in Scotland to hire on the Oliver’s Travels website.
We hope you like our suggestions for Scottish castle holidays whether you’re looking for a luxury rental or a cheap castle to hire. Please share any other small or large castles to stay in within the Scottish Highlands and Islands in the comments below.
Find somewhere to stay in our Scottish Highlands & Islands holiday accommodation listings.
Renting a castle in Scotland typically costs between £2,000 and £20,000 per week, depending on size, location, and amenities. Smaller castles for private stays may start around £300 per night, while luxury estates with staff and event facilities command higher rates, especially during peak seasons like summer or holidays.
Find cheap castles to rent in Scotland by looking at smaller castles or towers with basic amenities as they may be more affordable. Look for off-season deals (November – March). Be flexible with dates and location. Mid-week bookings can lower costs.
Staying in a castle in Scotland is worth it for travellers seeking a unique and historic experience. Castles offer luxury amenities, scenic locations, and authentic architecture. Many include fine dining, private grounds, and guided tours, making them ideal for romantic getaways, family stays, or special occasions.
You can stay in several castles in Scotland, including the Fortalice in Perthshire, Achnacloich, Argyll and Bute and Old Argyll House, near Dunoon. These historic properties operate as luxury hotels or private rentals, offering modern comforts, fine dining, and scenic settings for a unique Scottish experience.
Yes, you can rent a castle in the UK for holidays, events, or private stays. Castles are available across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, ranging from self-catering properties to fully staffed estates. Prices vary by location, size, and amenities, starting around £300 per night.
You can sleep in a castle in the UK by booking stays at properties converted into hotels, bed and breakfasts, or private rentals. Many historic castles offer overnight accommodation with modern comforts, including ensuite rooms, dining services, and scenic grounds, making them ideal for unique travel experiences.
You can rent an entire castle in Scotland for vacations, weddings, or events. Many Scottish castles are available as exclusive-use properties, offering full privacy, luxury amenities, and historic charm. Options range from medieval fortresses to renovated estates, with availability year-round and bookings through specialized rental agencies or direct owners.
Holiday Scottish Highlands & Islands
© 2025 — All rights reserved
