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Rothesay Castle

Castlehill Street, Rothesay, Isle of Bute
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A circular sandstone wall encloses this mighty castle, famous for its long and close association with the Stewart kings of Scotland.

Rothesay Castle features Scotland’s only circular curtain wall, with four projecting towers that were added after the Norse siege of 1263.

In the gatehouse, the restored great hall offers displays that explore the story of the castle and its royal owners.

A walk around the moat gives you the best views of the stone curtain wall and a chance to spot the ducks that live there.

A view of Rothesay Castle’s outer earthwork and stone wall seen across a water-filled moat, with mature trees and nearby houses surrounding the site.
A detailed aerial illustration of Rothesay Castle, showing the circular stone walls, surrounding moat, central courtyard buildings, and the urban streets and houses enclosing the site.

Book this site as a wedding venue

Whether it's in the chapel, great hall or outdoors in the courtyard, Rothesay Castle is an amazing setting for your special day.
Find out more about weddings at our sites
A bride sits next to her standing groom in a wood-paneled room. The two are lit by the light of a window out of shot.

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

Two adults, holding hands with two young children, walk through a graveyard, with historical stone ruins in the background. It is a sunny day.
  • 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
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Explorer Pass

Perfect for short-term trips and sightseeing

Valid for 14 consecutive days

A family walking across a grassy lawn with the New Abbey Corn Mill building in the background.
  • 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
Buy now View details