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More of our sites are now available to pre-book in advance of their opening later this month. We are working hard to open other sites in the coming weeks

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Overview

Visit a stronghold that stood at the heart of an ancient kingdom covering the area now known as Strathclyde. Set high upon a volcanic rock in the Firth of Clyde, the castle was a royal refuge.

What to see and do

  • Climb the White Tower Crag for stunning views – sometimes as far as the peak of Ben Lomond
  • Take in the artillery fortifications to see fine examples of early 18th-century military architecture
  • Enter the Governor’s House, a fine Georgian residence and home to some interesting artefacts found at the castle
  • Take our fun fact-finding quiz while exploring the castle. Available on site
Historic Scotland

Opening times

11-30 Sept:
Sat-Tue, 10am to 4pm

1-31 Oct:
Sat-Wed, 10am to 4pm

Last entry time slot 2.15pm

Advance booking required.

Your visit will be led by a member of the castle team. We would advise arriving 10 mins before the start of your time slot.

Winter opening times to be confirmed.

Check for unexpected closures

Facilities

A photograph of a large house with a square tower, flying a Saltire flag.

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Newark Castle
A stone facade with three large windows and a small wooden door

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Castle Semple Collegiate Church
A detailed shot of a carved stone cross

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Barochan Cross
A square stone tower house in remarkable condition seen from below

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Crookston Castle
Remains of a Roman bath house at Bearsden, on the Antonine Wall.

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Antonine Wall: Bearsden Bath House
The remains of a decorated gate and two windows in the wall beside it

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Kilwinning Abbey
A general view of Glasgow Cathedral.

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Glasgow Cathedral
A beautifully painted wall in Skelmorlie Aisle

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Skelmorlie Aisle
A photograph of a large house with a square tower, flying a Saltire flag.

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Newark Castle
A square stone tower house in remarkable condition seen from below

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Crookston Castle
Dundonald Castle at sunset

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Dundonald Castle
An exterior view of Bothwell Castle, nestled among trees on the River Clyde.

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Bothwell Castle
A general view of the circular curtain wall and moat at Rothesay Castle.

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Rothesay Castle
A general view of Doune Castle.

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Doune Castle
A photograph of an old building covered in grass and greenery on a cloudy day

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Cadzow Castle
A general view of Stirling Castle, showing the gate house, royal palace and the roof of the great hall.

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Stirling Castle

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