Castle Sween
Loch Sween, Knapdale, Argyll
Open all year round
Castle Sween hero image gallery
Explore one of Scotland’s oldest castles, stronghold of Suibhne ‘the Red’ and the MacDonald Lords of the Isles.
Castle Sween is thought to be the oldest castle on the Scottish mainland that we can date with any certainty. Architectural details show it was built in the 1100s and occupied for about 500 years.
The castle sits on a low ridge looking over Loch Sween and out to Jura. To its west is a small islet cleared to act as a boat landing, illustrating the vital importance of the sea as a major transport link.
Ready for an adventure?
Use a Membership or Explorer Pass to discover centuries of Scottish history and heritage, all while saving money and supporting our work.
Membership
Ideal for regular visitors and heritage supporters
Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events
- Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events
- Discount in our shops and cafés (on site and online)
- Historic Scotland magazine delivered to your door
- Free or discounted entry to sites in England, Wales and the Isle of Man
Explorer Pass
Perfect for short-term trips and sightseeing
Valid for 14 consecutive days
- Valid for 14 consecutive days
- Entry to all ticketed sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle
- 20% discount on audio guides at Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Glasgow Cathedral
- Guaranteed entry when you pre-book online