Loch Leven Castle

Visitor attraction

Explorer Tom

Loch Leven Castle makes you earn the arrival: the ruins stand on Castle Island, and visitors cross by boat from Kinross. Mary Queen of Scots was held here in 1567–68, hardly a pleasure cruise. The tower was already old by then and can brood over its famous guest. The tower house dates from the first half of the fourteenth century, making it one of Scotland’s oldest examples. Parts of the enclosure wall may be older still. Outside that wall lay an outer court, now largely an archaeological trace rather than another handsome set of rooms. It is a compact place, but stone walls and surrounding water make a stronger argument for security than any castle guide who waves a plastic sword. Mary’s imprisonment is the best-known chapter, though the castle’s fabric tells of a longer life. Explore the courtyard and tower rooms that are open on the day; the room associated with her captivity lies upstairs in the main tower. You can peer from a place once intended to keep people in and watch the boat that will take you out. I expect Mary would have had something sharp to say about the difference. Historic Environment Scotland runs the ticketed boat from the pier near Sandport Close in Kinross. Places on the boat are limited, so book, arrive early for the safety briefing and check weather and water conditions. The castle closes for winter from November through March, and the operator may post shorter closures at other times. Ground can be muddy and the boat cannot carry wheelchairs. Check the date before promising anyone an island adventure.