About Lochleven Castle
Step back in time at this historic island fortress on Loch Leven, famous as Mary Queen of Scots' dramatic prison before her daring 1568 escape—reached by a short boat trip across the water.
What's nearby
- Loch Leven National Nature Reserve Office next door
- Loch Leven National Nature Reserve - Pier Entrance next door
- Loch Leven Fisheries next door
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Payment
- ✓Credit cards
- ✓Debit cards
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Mary Queen of Scots is famous in Scots and British history but despite living 30 mins away from where she was a prisoner and seeing the castle from the road thousands of times I've never visited....so, grabbed the wife and kids and off we went. We made the mistake of not booking day before. When I called was told there was 6 spaces left at last boat of the day but would be first come first served. We went out for day thinking we wouldn't go but our day ended early and had time to make the last boat. We were first there and still 6 spaces left...phew but would still book as you have no guarantee. We were lucky. Our boat driver was amusingly informative during our short 10 min boat ride to the island. You purchase tickets on the island. Very well priced it is too. You get 45 mins between boats but you could stay longer and get next one as long as you queue and can get a seat. Very nice castle ruin that has excellent informative boards telling you Marys story. Interesting to see where she was kept prisoner and how she escaped. Boat ride back was a bit choppier but kept dry. Great little tourist attraction and glad I finally went.
· via Google
Visited with my partner in summer last year. We were historic Scotland members so wanted to take advantage of the free entry. It was great fun getting the boat over to the island! The only down side was there were so many flies at that time of year it was impossible to do the woodland walk. It didn’t ruin our day though, we had a lovely time. Would recommend, just make sure to book your boat seats in advance.
· via Google
Fantastic little castle to visit. The trip there is by boat to the island, and the island itself is absolutely beautiful. Perfect for those who want to visit castles that are a little off the usual touristic path! Staff was friendly and helpful.
· via Google
Brilliant visit! Plenty of parking with clear signs and toilets nearby. Book your boat online and arrive 15 mins early – the trip across the loch was so calm and scenic, with friendly skippers. The castle is small but full of history and charm, with picnic spots and great views (you can even see Kinross House). We spent about 40 minutes exploring, then relaxed while waiting for the return boat. Highly recommend, especially if you’re interested in Mary Queen of Scots!
· via Google
Visitors say this historic castle offers a unique island setting with stunning views and is steeped in history, particularly its connection to Mary, Queen of Scots. They also highlight the enjoyable and informative boat trip to the island, with friendly staff providing interesting facts. Guests mention the reasonable entry prices and the ample time to explore the castle ruins and grounds.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Pier Road, Kinross, KY13 8UF Get directions
- Category
- Sightseeing & Attractions
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (508 reviews)
- Suitable for
- Ages 4+
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Kinross