16 Amazing Castles Near Glasgow, Scotland
Historical castles are never too far away from any of the main cities in Scotland. Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and its former industrial hub and is hardy by nature.
The west coast is scattered with well-preserved and ruined castles. This article lists the amazing castles near Glasgow.
Castles are scattered across the country, some of which are only within a couple of hours’ drive from Glasgow. You can visit the medieval ruins representing kings and queens of ancient times.
These are the closest and most momentous castles from Celtic creations to palatial keeps. You can find castles throughout Lanarkshire, Dunbartonshire, Ayrshire and in Argyll.
Dumbarton Castle
Dumbarton Castle was the original capital of the kingdom of Strathclyde. The castle has a Georgian governor’s house 18th-century artillery fortifications and Ben Lomond, Clyde and Argyll views.
There are not a lot of remains of the medieval castle, however, you can imagine the garrison fortress and what it was like back in its day.
Climb the 500 steps to access these great views. The dramatic volcanic plug, which is known as Dumbarton Rock was an active volcano 350 million years ago.
The rock is well-exposed and inaccessible on all sides. The castle has had a turbulent history and has connections to royals, Vikings and the Scottish Wars of Independence.
It is a quirky castle to explore and the green field is very green. Currently cared for by Historic Scotland. The castle is currently closed as it is undergoing restoration.
Dumbarton Castle is only a forty-five-minute drive west of Glasgow.
Balloch Castle
The location is extremely unique being located on the south side of Loch Lomond. Balloch Castle is a 19th-century mansion house with ornamental gardens, nature trails and cultural events.
Also, there are mature trees and views over the loch and mountains. In addition, there is plenty of wildlife and you can admire the views from the Chinese Garden.
The castle itself is currently fenced off, and unfortunately, cannot be visited. The country park is a short walk away from Balloch Train Station. To get to the country park from Glasgow, it is only an hour’s drive west of the city.
Bothwell Castle
The red stone 13th-century castle ruins are very picturesque and grand. There is a massive courtyard in the castle and information boards regarding the castle.
The castle has a very interesting castle history including multiple famous sieges by the English.
One of the easiest castles to reach from the centre of Glasgow. It is only a twenty-minute drive from Glasgow.
The castle is located near the River Clyde in the area known as Bothwell. This impressive fortress is managed by Historic Environment Scotland.
Stirling Castle
One of the most beautifully maintained and restored castles in Scotland. Overlooking the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where William Wallace was able to win a battle against the English forces during the Wars of Independence.
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most historically important sites and was once a favoured residence of the Stewarts kings and queens who held grand celebrations at the castle.
The castle has had many uses, it was a war office and barracks for soldiers, right up until it became a public museum.
Highlights from the castle are the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Castle Exhibition, Regimental Museum, Tapestry, Great Kitchens and the nearby Argyll’s Lodging.
Also, there is a restaurant where you can get delicious food and drinks. This is called the Unicorn Café.
From Glasgow, a drive to Stirling is only half an hour. Alternatively, a train from Queen Street Station in Glasgow will get you to the castle in under an hour.
Kelburn Castle
Kelburn Castle is located near Largs which is an hour drive from Glasgow. This is a colourful castle which has a magnificent graffiti style art on the exterior of the castle.
In 2007, Brazilian artist, Tristan Mano, decorated the outside of the castle.
Surrounding the castles is lots of beautiful trails and you can take an easy short walk into the glen to view the waterfalls. The stunning glen is full of surprises along the way.
At the top of the glen you will be rewarded with incredible views across the Firth of the Clyde and over the Isle of Arran.
Just 250 yards away from the castle, is the Waterfall Pool, set in a spectacular sandstone grotto. Also, there is a magical maze, play area and Glamping area.
Castle Campbell
Located in the charming village of Dollar, which is an hour’s drive away from Glasgow. This well-preserved late Medieval tower house castle has stunning terraced gardens and views across Dollar Glen.
Castle Campbell is a 15th-century fortress which was once home to the powerful Campbell Earls of Argyll. This castle has historical connections with the Mary Queen of Scots and John Knox.
You can explore Castle Campbell’s visitor centres, cobbled courtyard and interpretation displays. While you are here it is worth walking through the lovely glen.
Dollar Glen has beautiful falls and moss-covered rocks in the narrow glen.
Craignethan Castle
A squat tower keep behind the massive early artillery defences and a later courtyard. Plenty of spiral staircases, cellars and high views over the countryside.
Craignethan Castle is a forty-minute drive south of Glasgow, located between Carluke and Lanark.
The castle is a far walk from the car park. Also, there are plenty more trails to follow and it is great to walk near the Nethan Gorge.
It is cared for by Historic Scotland. Opened from April to September, currently, the site is closed.
Crookston Castle
This castle is the only castle that is still standing in the city boundary of Glasgow. Crookston Castle was built in the 15th century on top of earthwork foundations which date back 300 years earlier.
Located near Pollock Park which is approximately a twenty-minute drive from the city centre. Entry to the castle is free. The northeast tower is only one of the five main towers that are still standing.
From what is left, your mind will be left wondering which life you to be like inside the castle. From the top of the castle, you will get a greater understanding of medieval life inside the castle.
Also, you will get amazing views across the city. Bear in mind that the metal ladder to reach the roof is narrow and steep.
Newark Castle
To the west of Glasgow, in Port Glasgow is the small charming castle called Newark Castle. Looking over the River Clyde is an impressive well-preserved example of a medieval tower house.
If you are lucky you might catch the dolphins jumping out of the water and playing near the pier. Also, you can admire the stunning views across the mountains on the other side of the water.
There is a car park right next to the castle. The castle is half an hour’s drive from Glasgow.
Lennox Castle
Lennox Castle is an old physiatry hospital which closed in 2002. It was recognised that the institutional care provided was outdated and did not support a good quality of life.
The building is unsafe and closed off to the public, however, it is still worth the visit to admire the outside of the castle. This a fabulous ruin, which is very eerie and it is a paradise for urban explorers.
Also, it is worth the long walk by the Celtic training grounds. This old mansion is a 35-minute drive from the centre of Glasgow.
Craigend Castle
Craigend Castle is a 19th-century castle ruin. It is a skeleton of ruin and it is one of the remaining castles in Mugdock Country Park. The surrounding area is great for a gentle and relaxing walk.
The castles can be viewed along with Mugdock Castle. Only half an hour’s drive from the centre of Glasgow.
Dundonald Castle
A 14th-century castle, built by Robert II of Scotland. Located in the gorgeous countryside, between Troon and Kilmarnock.
This was the third castle that was built on the site, with one castle being destroyed during the Wars of Independence. The remains of the castle are set on a hilltop and will make you feel like you have been transformed in time.
As Dundonald Castle is located in Ayrshire, the car journey is only under 45 minutes. Getting there by public transport is also an option.
First, you will have to get to Kilmarnock then get on another bus towards Troon.
Dean Castle
Another 14th-century castle will give you an insight into medieval Scotland. The current castle was rebuilt in 1946, while the castle was first built in 1300.
Set in a gorgeous country park, cared for by the local council, so it is free to access.
Driving from Glasgow to Dean Castle and Country Park will only take 40 minutes in the car. Or, buses are available which will only take 50 minutes.
Doune Castle
Built-in the 13th century, this castle has been visited by famous monarchs over the centuries including the Mary, Queen of Scots and James IV of Scotland.
Also, it was damaged during the Wars of Independence, now the four walls are still standing. This is a famous castle which has been featured in Monty Python, Outlander and the pilot episode of the Game of Thrones.
Doune is located near Stirling, to get to the castle it is a 45-minute drive from Glasgow. Public transport is also an option, a train, and a bus along with a short 10-minute walk get you there.
Dunure Castle
This is thought to be one of the longest ruins in Scotland. Being built back in the 1200s, and left as a ruin by the 1700s, the castle has been in a state of ruin for over 300 years.
It was once a stronghold on the Firth of Clyde which has been visited by the Mary Queen of Scots. Dunure Castle can be reached in an hour by car.
Does Glasgow have any castles?
Glasgow used to have several castles which have all now disappeared. Many castles and tower houses that are left in the city are now private and it is not accessible to the public.
Crookston Castle is the only surviving medieval castle is the City of Glasgow. It is a reminder of the area’s former rural character.
What is the most beautiful castle in Scotland?
Stirling Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland. The castle is perched high on a rocky outcrop.
From the top, you can get amazing views across the lowlands and highlands of Scotland. Stirling Castle is only an hour’s drive from the centre of Glasgow.
Final Note
All of these castles on this list are within an hour’s drive from Glasgow. The closest castle is Crookston Castle followed by the ruins of Bothwell Castle.
To reach some of these dramatic castles, you must visit Stirlingshire, Renfrewshire, Dunbartonshire, Ayrshire and Lanarkshire.
A couple of mansion houses which are open to the public are Finlaystone House in Finlaystone Country Park and Pollock House which is located in Pollock Country Park.
There are plenty of fairytale castles all over the country you can explore the east coast, west coast and islands of Scotland.
As well as castles, there are lots of other things to do in and near Glasgow. You can visit gardens, hills, Munros, and waterfalls or head to one of the free attractions or museums in Glasgow.