Huntingtower Castle
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Huntingtower Castle

4.5
·643 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Huntingtower Castle, a historic Scottish tower house with tales of royalty, intrigue, and legendary escapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Huntingtower Castle

Huntingtower Castle

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Huntingtower Castle, a historic Scottish tower house with tales of royalty, intrigue, and legendary escapes.

4.5
(643 reviews)

"Well preserved and good stonework, offering good views across the area."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Perth Station

Easily accessible by foot from Perth train station, making it a great addition to your itinerary. :athletic_shoe:

🏰 Explore the Rooftop

Don't miss climbing to the roof for amazing views and the 'lovers leap' story. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Lovers Leap'

The 'Lovers Leap'

Rooftop

Dare to cross the rooftop gap, a thrilling spot with a legendary tale of escape and romance.

Ruthven Family's Seat

Ruthven Family's Seat

Main Castle Structure

Explore the historic heart of the Ruthven family, once a powerful force in Scotland.

Panoramic Views from the Top

Panoramic Views from the Top

Castle Roof

Ascend to the roof for breathtaking views of the surrounding Perthshire landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Castle Exploration

Visit during off-peak hours to truly soak in the history. Weekday mornings or late afternoons often mean fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with this ancient fortress. Check opening times before you go, as they can vary seasonally.

Embrace the History and Legends

Huntingtower Castle is steeped in tales of royalty and intrigue. Familiarize yourself with the stories of Mary Queen of Scots and the Ruthven family to enhance your visit. The information boards provide great context for the castle's dramatic past.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If only Mary had have followed her intuition! #maryqueenotscots #reign #ruins #castle #History #historybuff #HistoryTime #historytiktok #historytok #castletok #castlesofscotland #Scotland
@evelyn.edwards1
12.7K likes • 197.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Perth Station

Easily accessible by foot from Perth train station, making it a great addition to your itinerary. :athletic_shoe:

🏰 Explore the Rooftop

Don't miss climbing to the roof for amazing views and the 'lovers leap' story. :camerawithflash:

@evelyn.edwards1 Mary had been imprisoned in England for 14 years when this event happened. #maryqueenotscots #castle #castletok #reign #castlesofscotland #History #HistoryTime #historytiktok #historybuff #ruins #Scotland #tudors
@evelyn.edwards1
8.8K likes • 153.9K views
Tucked away just outside Perth, Scotland, Huntingtower Castle is a fascinating place to explore, full of history, legends, and even a few unexpected residents. Built in the 15th century, it was once home to the powerful Ruthven family, but after they got on the wrong side of King James VI, they lost everything, and the castle was taken over by Clan Campbell. Climbing to the Top – Worth the Effort...
scotlandhiddenadventures
1.7K likes • 29.6K views

📜 Learn the Legends

Read the info boards to uncover tales of Mary Queen of Scots and the Ruthven family. :scroll:

🚗 Parking & Toilets Available

Convenient parking and facilities are available on-site for visitors. :car:

Let’s take a stroll to Huntingtower Castle in Perth, which has hosted some notable visitors, and been party to some dramatic events...   ...Mary Queen of Scots even honeymooned here in 1565!  You can walk to the castle from Perth train station. In fact, you can walk or cycle to many of our sites through dramatic glens, stunning canals, and lush greenspaces.  So many popular active travel routes...
historicscotland
1.4K likes • 32.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Perth Station

Easily accessible by foot from Perth train station, making it a great addition to your itinerary. :athletic_shoe:

🏰 Explore the Rooftop

Don't miss climbing to the roof for amazing views and the 'lovers leap' story. :camerawithflash:

📜 Learn the Legends

Read the info boards to uncover tales of Mary Queen of Scots and the Ruthven family. :scroll:

🚗 Parking & Toilets Available

Convenient parking and facilities are available on-site for visitors. :car:

🐶 Pet-Friendly Grounds

Your furry friends are welcome in the grounds, but not inside the castle itself. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(643 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Huntingtower Castle for its well-preserved stonework, interesting history, and the thrilling rooftop views, including the legendary 'lovers leap.' The friendly staff and pet-friendly grounds are also highlighted as positives. However, some find the interior dark with locked doors, leading to disappointment for those expecting more accessible exploration.

"Well preserved and good stonework. Access the roof if you're OK with heights offering good views across the area and of the 'lovers leap' across the roof - story behind this on information boards. Spiral staircases to different levels make for interesting exploration. Car park, toilets and pet friendly in the grounds but no pets allowed in the castle itself. Sensibly priced."

M Gallichan

"My husband and I decided to visit this castle because it was along our driving route from Kingussie to Linlithgow. The castle is one of many historic sites we visited with the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass during our trip to Scotland. While visiting the castle we had a pleasant conversation with the property manager, Alison, whom recommended us to also visit Elcho Castle nearby. Huntingtower Castle was a delight to tour."

Angie Cox

"Mrs. Campbell and the gentleman working today are 100% my kind of people. Wish I had got his name, but those two are amazing employees and made our trip worth every mile.

This was my father's first proper castle, and he had so much fun. The kids loved the games and we all would love to come back."

Marie Regalado

What People Like

Well-preserved stonework
Rooftop views & 'lovers leap'
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Dark interior
Locked doors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Huntingtower Castle is conveniently located near Perth. You can easily walk to the castle from Perth train station, making it an accessible destination for those exploring on foot. For drivers, it's situated beside the A85 and near the A9, approximately 5 km northwest of Perth city center. :car: :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Yes, there is a car park available for visitors at Huntingtower Castle, making it convenient for those traveling by car. :car: Reddit

Absolutely! Many Historic Scotland sites, including Huntingtower Castle, are accessible by bike, offering a scenic way to travel through the beautiful Scottish landscape. :cyclist: Instagram

The castle is located near the village of Huntingtower, just outside the city of Perth in Perthshire, Scotland. :round_pushpin: Instagram

Yes, it's situated on the main road to Crieff, making it relatively easy to locate for visitors. :road: Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening times for Huntingtower Castle can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Historic Scotland website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. :clock1: Instagram

Admission to Huntingtower Castle is sensibly priced. Consider purchasing an Historic Scotland Explorer Pass if you plan to visit multiple sites, as it can offer great value. :moneybag: Reddit

While advance booking is often recommended for popular attractions, it's advisable to check the Historic Scotland website for specific requirements for Huntingtower Castle. :ticket: Instagram

Historic Scotland often offers various discounts and passes, such as the Explorer Pass, which can cover entry to Huntingtower Castle and many other historical sites across Scotland. :discount: Reddit

Yes, Huntingtower Castle is managed by Historic Scotland, so an Explorer Pass is a great way to gain entry and explore this and other historical treasures. :key: Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the well-preserved stonework, climb spiral staircases to different levels, and access the roof for stunning views and the 'lovers leap' story. Information boards detail the castle's history and legends. :castle: Reddit

Yes, children often have a lot of fun exploring the castle's nooks and crannies. The games and interactive elements can make it an engaging experience for younger visitors. :child: Reddit

Yes, toilet facilities are available on the grounds of Huntingtower Castle for visitors. :toilet: Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside and around Huntingtower Castle, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions. Capturing the historic architecture and views is highly recommended. :camerawithflash: Instagram

The 'lovers leap' is a legendary story associated with a gap on the rooftop of Huntingtower Castle. Information boards on-site explain the dramatic tale behind this feature. :heart: Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, there are no food or dining facilities directly within Huntingtower Castle. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks or plan to eat in nearby Perth. :sandwich:

The grounds of Huntingtower Castle are a lovely place for a picnic. Enjoy your meal amidst the historic surroundings before or after exploring the castle. :apple: :bread:

The city of Perth, just a short drive or walk away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs to suit all tastes and budgets. :forkandknife:

You'll find several charming cafes in the nearby village of Huntingtower or in the city of Perth, perfect for a coffee break or light lunch. :coffee:

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the castle grounds. :baguette_bread:

📸 📸 Photography

The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape shots. The castle's architecture, especially the tower houses and stonework, provides excellent opportunities for close-ups and atmospheric photos. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check with Historic Scotland for their specific drone policy. :drone:

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the textures of the stone and the surrounding landscape. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer people. :sunrise: :city_sunset:

Don't miss capturing the 'lovers leap' on the roof, the imposing tower houses, and the views across the Perthshire countryside. The spiral staircases also make for dramatic interior shots. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Tripod usage might be restricted during busy periods to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's advisable to check with onsite staff or Historic Scotland's guidelines. :tripod:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Huntingtower Castle is a fantastic destination for families looking for an engaging historical adventure. Kids often love exploring the different levels, climbing the spiral staircases, and imagining themselves as knights or royalty. The tales of Mary Queen of Scots and the 'lovers leap' legend can spark their imaginations. TikTokReddit

There are facilities like parking and toilets on-site, and the grounds are pet-friendly, making it easier for families with pets. While pets aren't allowed inside the castle, the open spaces are great for them to roam. The sensible pricing also makes it an affordable outing for a family day trip. Reddit

🏰 History Buffs & Castle Enthusiasts

For those passionate about Scottish history and architecture, Huntingtower Castle offers a rich experience. You can delve into the stories of the Ruthven family, Mary Queen of Scots, and King James VI, understanding the castle's pivotal role in historical events. TikTokInstagram+1

The well-preserved stonework and the evolution of the tower house structure provide excellent insights into medieval and Renaissance Scottish building techniques. Don't miss the chance to explore the rooftop for panoramic views and to learn about the local legends that add another layer of fascination to this historic site. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Huntingtower Castle is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The admission price is described as 'sensibly priced,' and the availability of an Historic Scotland Explorer Pass can offer significant savings if you plan to visit multiple sites. Reddit

Its accessibility from Perth, including the option to walk or cycle from the train station, further reduces transportation costs. Bringing your own picnic to enjoy in the grounds also helps keep food expenses down, making for an affordable and enriching historical experience. :moneywithwings: Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Royal Honeymoon and Royal Kidnapping

Huntingtower Castle, once known as Ruthven Castle, has witnessed significant historical events. It famously hosted Mary Queen of Scots and her husband, Lord Darnley, for a honeymoon in 1565. This period, however, was fraught with political tension, and Mary's relationship with her hosts, the Ruthven family, was reportedly strained. The castle's dramatic past also includes the 'Ruthven Raid' of 1582, where the young King James VI was seized by the Earl of Gowrie, highlighting the castle's role in the turbulent politics of the era. TikTokInstagram+2

These events underscore the castle's importance as a strategic and royal residence. The Ruthven family, who held the castle for centuries, were powerful figures, but their involvement in the Ruthven Raid led to their downfall and the forfeiture of their estates. The castle's history is a compelling narrative of power, intrigue, and the shifting fortunes of Scottish nobility. Instagram+1

Today, visitors can explore the very spaces where these historical dramas unfolded. The well-preserved stonework and the layout of the castle offer a tangible connection to Scotland's rich and often dramatic past. Understanding these stories truly brings the ruins to life. Instagram+1

Architectural Evolution and Legends

Huntingtower Castle is a fascinating example of Scottish tower house architecture, evolving over centuries. Originally built as a single tower house in the 15th century, it was later expanded in the 16th century with a second tower. These two towers were eventually joined by a central range, creating the structure visitors see today. This architectural progression reflects the changing needs and increasing status of its inhabitants, the Ruthven family. Instagram+1

The castle is also a site of local folklore and ghost stories. One of the most famous tales is the 'lovers leap,' a dramatic story associated with a gap on the castle's rooftop. While the exact details of the legend vary, it adds an element of mystery and romance to the visitor experience. The information boards within the castle provide details about these local legends, encouraging visitors to imagine the lives and stories of those who once resided here. Reddit

Exploring the castle involves navigating spiral staircases to different levels, offering a sense of adventure and discovery. The well-preserved stonework and the overall structure provide a glimpse into medieval and Renaissance Scottish domestic architecture. Reddit

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