Caithness, located in the northernmost part of mainland Scotland, is home to over 50 castles and castle ruins. Due to its rich Viking and Scottish history, the region is filled with medieval strongholds, coastal fortresses, and abandoned ruins, many of which are linked to powerful clans like the Sinclairs and Gunns.
Notable Castles in Caithness
Here are some of the most famous and historically significant castles in the region:
1. Castle Sinclair Girnigoe (Near Wick)
🏰 Status: Ruins
📜 Why Visit? One of the most dramatic clifftop castle ruins in Scotland, built in the late 15th century by Clan Sinclair.
2. Old Keiss Castle (Near Keiss)
🏰 Status: Ruins
📜 Why Visit? A striking ruin perched on a clifftop overlooking Sinclair’s Bay, originally built by the Sinclair family.
3. Keiss Castle (New Keiss Castle)
🏰 Status: Private residence
📜 Why Visit? A Victorian mansion built in the 18th century near the ruins of Old Keiss Castle.
4. Ackergill Tower (Near Wick)
🏰 Status: Converted into a luxury hotel (Previously private)
📜 Why Visit? A well-preserved 15th-century tower house, once home to Clan Keith, with a legendary history of feuds and kidnappings.
5. Forse Castle (Near Latheron)
🏰 Status: Ruins
📜 Why Visit? Built in the 14th century, this lesser-known castle offers stunning coastal views but is difficult to access.
6. Bucholly Castle (Near Freswick)
🏰 Status: Ruins
📜 Why Visit? A medieval fortress built on a rocky outcrop, associated with the Gunns and the Sinclairs.
7. Castle of Old Wick (Near Wick)
🏰 Status: Ruins
📜 Why Visit? One of the oldest castles in Scotland, built in the 12th century, offering dramatic sea cliff views.
8. Dunbeath Castle (Near Dunbeath)
🏰 Status: Private residence (not open to the public)
📜 Why Visit? A stunning 17th-century clifftop castle, still inhabited and offering breathtaking scenery.
9. Barrogill Castle (Castle of Mey)
🏰 Status: Open to the public
📜 Why Visit? The former home of the Queen Mother, restored and beautifully maintained, with gardens and a visitor center.
Final Thoughts
Caithness is one of Scotland’s richest areas for castles, with many dramatic ruins and well-preserved fortresses. Whether you’re interested in medieval history, clan warfare, or just love exploring stunning coastal landscapes, Caithness’ castles offer a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past. 🏰✨