Kilmartin Castle

An authentic, exquisitely restored Scottish castle that dates all the way back to the 16th century, set within acres of unspoilt Argyll wilderness.

How would you like to travel magically back in time, without forsaking any contemporary creature comforts in the process?

That's exactly what a stay at Kilmartin Castle offers. Standing proudly amongst an ancient Argyll glen on Scotland's windswept west coast, you're sure to feel immediately at one with your grand, historic surroundings.

The castle is available for exclusive private rule, or simply choose one of its four elegant, pet-friendly bedrooms to rest your regal heads in (a fifth kingsize suite, named 1550 after the year the castle was completed, is offered with exclusive hire parties).

You'll find each en-suite room individually named and themed, with thoughtfully chosen antique furniture, and a beautiful blend of modern with original artworks and accessories.

Speel (an old Scottish word meaning "the climb") is a luxury kingsize room with a roof window, an antique bed, and a copper bath with art deco taps. The Snug is a gorgeously cosy ground floor double, with its original stone barrel-vaulted ceiling, and a handcrafted oak headboard.

Clarke, named after the castle's much-loved former owners, is a luxurious and romantic double room with a soothing fireplace, exposed stonework, and a walk-in wet room. And last but by no means least, Carswell is a luxury kingsize room named for the castle's very first keeper, with a four-poster bed and a gleaming copper bath to help you feel nice and spoilt.

Unless you've booked the castle to yourselves, breakfast is sociably served every morning in the castle dining room. Breakfast is memorable, with something for everyone, including mouthwatering vegan dishes, traditional smoked salmon (smoked in the next village!) and free-range kintyre scrambled eggs. The ingredients used are fresh and innovative; think burnt lemon, whipped ricotta, rose water, roasted strawberries, harissa lamb, homemade labneh and dukkah to name a few. Not a fry up in sight here!

Lit by glowing candlelight, the original stone dining room takes on a whole new ambience by evening, as you dine under its vaulted ceiling. If you're hiring the castle for a private party, you'll have use of the beautiful fully equipped kitchen with hot running water - but then, why waste the opportunity to be catered for by a private chef?

Needless to say, the castle makes for a totally fairytale venue for a wedding too, so why not plan for your special day and up to ten guests in this most romantic of historic venues. 

In 2021 the castle grounds were completely re-landscaped. An inviting pergola and outdoor dining table greet you at the front of the castle. A raised lawn has beautiful views overlooking Kilmartin Glen. You will find an orchard, sunken fire-pit, outdoor sitting area with Italian sofas and wood burning stove.

For those who love al feesco dining and entertaining, an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven, bbq and Kamado Joe is the ideal space for this, with seating for ten to sixteen. The large wild swimming pond is perfect for a cold water dip when the sun is shining. Guests are also welcome to help themselves to herbs, fruit and vegetables which are grown organically in the castle grounds. 

What to do with your time at Kilmartin Castle? The friendly owners have crafted a map of the local area, filled with places to see and things to do. Start by meandering into the village, where you'll discover a museum that's bursting with stories (along with a café that's bursting with delicious cake!)

The wild, wondrous Kilmartin Glen is rich in history, while the nearby hotel pub is perfect for a home-cooked meal and a single malt, just before you retrace your steps back to your noble dwelling.

It's the perfect end to yet another memorable day.

Things to note

Check in at 4pm, check out by 10am. Please advise if you are bringing your dog, so the owners can have their bed ready too!  There is a 3-night minimum stay for exclusive use, starting from £900 per night, One night stays may be possible on occasion if available, and weddings of up to 10 guests are possible  - please enquire for further details if you have a few more, the owners will endeavour to accommodate . Should you wish to have any part of your stay catered  please also enquire.