"Great free landmarks to visit. The walk is uphill but it wasn’t hard and wasn’t too long. The parking lot was closed when we went on Sunday around 11am but we were the only people there so we just parked in front of it."

shannon davis

"A beautifully preserved piece of Scotland’s medieval history – peaceful, photogenic, and free to explore.

Balvaird Castle is one of those hidden gems that feels like stepping back in time. Tucked away in the rolling hills of Perth and Kinross, this 16th-century tower house offers a quiet but powerful glimpse into Scotland’s noble past. It was built around 1500 by Sir Andrew Murray, who married into the influential Barclay family — and the castle reflects both status and function, with elegant architectural details and strong defensive design.

Although the castle is not open for interior visits, the exterior is remarkably intact. You can walk right up to the structure, explore its base, and appreciate features like corbelled turrets, a large arched entrance, and the ruins of the courtyard buildings. The site is rich in atmosphere — especially on a quiet day, when the wind is the only sound and the hills stretch endlessly around you.

There are a couple of helpful information panels at the site explaining the castle’s history and structure. It’s a great spot for photography, especially if you enjoy historic architecture or landscape shots. I also flew a drone here and the aerial views are breathtaking — the symmetry of the castle ruins and the surrounding fields make for stunning footage.

Access:
There’s a small parking area about a 5–10 minute walk from the site. The path is grassy and may be a little uneven, but it’s a short and easy walk for most visitors. It’s dog-friendly, family-friendly, and best of all — free to visit.

Tip: Visit around golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the most beautiful lighting. There’s rarely anyone else around, so you can enjoy a peaceful experience without crowds.

This is a perfect stop for history lovers, photographers, or anyone exploring the countryside who wants a quiet and meaningful connection to Scotland’s heritage.

Highly recommend adding Balvaird Castle to your itinerary if you’re in Perthshire!"

Dinesh Jayanayake (DJ)

"Balvaird Castle – A Hidden Gem of Medieval Scotland
📍 Perth and Kinross, Scotland

Tucked away in the peaceful countryside of Perth and Kinross, Balvaird Castle is a true hidden gem for history lovers and adventurers alike. Unlike the more crowded castles across Scotland, Balvaird offers something rare: solitude, mystery, and raw medieval charm.

Dating back to the 15th century, this beautiful tower house sits proudly on a hill, offering panoramic views over the surrounding farmland and hills. The approach to the castle itself is magical — a short, scenic walk through lush greenery and quiet landscapes that set the tone for a serene and memorable visit.

Although the interior is not open to the public, the castle’s exterior is remarkably well-preserved. You’ll find yourself imagining what life must have been like here centuries ago. The defensive design, stonework, and location all speak to its noble past, once home to the Murray family.

One of the best parts? It’s often completely empty. No tour buses, no crowds — just you, the wind, and the whispers of history in the stone walls. It’s perfect for photographers, walkers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to connect with Scotland’s rich medieval past without distractions.

✅ Free to visit
✅ Peaceful atmosphere
✅ Ideal for a scenic walk or a quiet afternoon
✅ Great photo opportunities"

Dhanushka Rathnayaka