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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more atmosphere

Huntingtower Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Huntingtower Castle, a historic Scottish tower house with tales of royalty, intrigue, and legendary escapes.
"Well preserved and good stonework, offering good views across the area."

🚶♀️ 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Panoramic Views from the Top
Castle Roof
Ascend to the roof for breathtaking views of the surrounding Perthshire landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Castle Exploration
Embrace the History and Legends
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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:
Yes, there is a car park available for visitors at Huntingtower Castle, making it convenient for those traveling by car. :car:
Absolutely! Many Historic Scotland sites, including Huntingtower Castle, are accessible by bike, offering a scenic way to travel through the beautiful Scottish landscape. :cyclist:
The castle is located near the village of Huntingtower, just outside the city of Perth in Perthshire, Scotland. :round_pushpin:
Yes, it's situated on the main road to Crieff, making it relatively easy to locate for visitors. :road:
🎫 🎫 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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
🎫 🧭 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:
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:
Yes, toilet facilities are available on the grounds of Huntingtower Castle for visitors. :toilet:
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:
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:
🍽️ 🍽️ 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:
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:
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
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.
🏰 History Buffs & Castle Enthusiasts
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.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
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:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Honeymoon and Royal Kidnapping
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.
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.
Architectural Evolution and Legends
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit