Friday, March 21, 2025
LocationInveraray, Argyll, Scotland (Google Map Location)
Open for visitorsYes
Owned byThe Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell
Official WebsiteInveraray Castle
Room’s availableYes (weddings, exhibitions, events, filming)

Nestled on the calm shores of Loch Fyne, Inveraray Castle has an astonishing collection of guns and armor, luxury chambers suited for a king or queen, and a spectacular dining room for great feasts and state events. Don’t miss out on exploring this magnificent masterpiece of Scottish baronial architecture.

Inveraray Castle History

Inveraray Castle History
Inveraray Castle”, by DeFacto, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Erected in the mid-18th century by the 3rd Duke of Argyll, Inveraray Castle was meant to portray the riches and authority of the Duke. The castle’s massive façade and magnificent towers were built to dazzle guests and frighten adversaries.
Apart from the royal visits and banquets, Inveraray Castle has also seen tragedy with a phantom ghost roaming the corridors. Legend has it that Irish mercenaries in the castle brutally murdered a young boy harpist, and harp music could be heard whenever someone died in the castle.

Inveraray Castle Inside

Inveraray Castle inside
Inveraray Castle”, by Dylan Moore, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Inveraray Castle interior features a stunning display of Scottish baronial architecture, coffered ceilings, elaborate wood carvings, and luxurious furniture.
The Armoury Hall, which houses an extraordinary collection of weaponry and armor going back to the 16th century, is one of the castle’s attractions. The Duchess’s Bedroom, with its gorgeous chandelier and spectacular views of the castle’s grounds and Loch Fyne, is especially remarkable.
The State Dining Area, which is covered with exquisite plasterwork and includes a spectacular 20-foot-long dining table, is another must-see room. 

Inveraray Castle Interesting Facts

Inveraray Castle is not just an ordinary castle with a moat and a drawbridge. The legends and stories about this picturesque Scottish fort make it a must-visit:

  • The castle has been featured in the hit TV show “Downton Abbey” and the film “The Three Musketeers.”
  • Inveraray Castle was developed with aesthetics in mind, unlike many castles built simply for protection. The prominent turrets and towers of the castle were built to provide a stunning, scenic backdrop befitting any painting.
  • The castle is open from April to October, with tickets available online or at the gate. If you’re wondering when to go, Inveraray Castle’s opening hours are 10 a.m. every day, so you can start touring early.

Hotels near Inveraray Castle

There are various hotels in Scotland near Inveraray Castle. Here are a few potential options:

  • Cuilfail Hotel: Located in the neighboring community of Kilmelford, it is a modest, family-run hotel with decent rooms and a restaurant. The hotel is in a gorgeous setting and is only a short drive from Inveraray Castle.
  • Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa: Located on the banks of Loch Fyne, this 4-star hotel is a few minutes away from Inveraray Castle. The hotel has a sauna, a restaurant, and nice accommodations with loch views.
  • The Inveraray Highland Resort: Located on the outskirts of Inveraray, this hotel offers nice accommodations, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel is encircled by a lovely landscape and is close to Inveraray Castle.

FAQs

Who owns Inveraray Castle?

The Duke of Argyll, the chief of the Clan Campbell, owns Inveraray Castle. The Campbell family has possessed the castle since it was completed in the 18th century and has served as the hereditary seat of the Dukes of Argyll since then.

Where is Inveraray Castle located?

Inveraray Castle is situated in the town of Inveraray, on the western coast of Loch Fyne, in the Scottish province of Argyll and Bute. Inveraray is around 60 miles (97 kilometers) northwest Glasgow and 38 miles (61 kilometers) southeast of Oban.

Have you visited this castle before? If yes, why not share some beautiful pictures with us!
You can email us your pictures of the castle at castrumtocastle@gmail.com. Please use the name of the castle in the subject line.
Also, don’t forget to mention your name and social media profile link if you want the credits!

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We create informative articles about castles and famous historical figures such as kings and queens. We also provide all the visiting information you need to help plan your visit to each castle.