A brief respite from endless online browsing can be found at a secluded 16th-century castle nestled on a Scottish shore during a weekend getaway.
Saddell Castle Reopens to Public and Holiday Rentals
Saddell Castle, a 16th-century fortress nestled on a picturesque promontory in Kintyre, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, has reopened following extensive restoration work. The Category A-listed building has been preserved and is now available for rent, offering a unique holiday experience [1].
Originally built in 1508, Saddell Castle served as a stronghold for the Bishop of Argyll. It later came into the possession of the Campbell family for nearly 400 years [1]. The castle's interior features a removable flooring inside the front door, a historical booby-trap mechanism [1].
The restoration work included masonry repairs, complete reharling in a gauged hot lime mortar, roofing works, and the addition of additional bathrooms [1]. The castle now sleeps eight people and welcomes canine companions, making it an ideal choice for group stays [1].
Visitors can enjoy sweeping coastal views from various windows and the crenellated rooftop walk [1]. The castle's location offers a romantic setting, with views across the Kilbrannan Sound to the Isle of Arran [1]. The nearby beach and small river add to the area's scenic beauty [1].
The wildlife around Saddell Castle includes seals, and the opportunity to watch the tide coming in and out over Antony Gormley's sculpture, GRIP IV, which stands on the rocks below [1].
The Landmark Trust, which manages the castle and the surrounding Saddell Bay area, will host public "Open Days" in September 2025. These events will allow visitors to explore Saddell Castle and five other Landmark properties, including Saddell Lodge and Ferryman's Cottage [2]. Pre-booking is recommended, but walk-ins will be accommodated [2].
For booking stays at Saddell Castle, pricing is approximately £20 per person, per night (based on full occupancy of eight guests) [1]. More information can be found on The Landmark Trust's website or through rental platforms partnered with them.
Key Facts:
- Location: Saddell Bay, Kintyre, Argyll and Bute, Scotland
- Historical Era: 16th century (built 1508, Campbell family ~1600-2000)
- Restoration: Extensive works including masonry, roofing, reharling, new bathrooms completed 2025
- Accommodation: Sleeps 8, dog-friendly
- Features: Coastal views, crenellated roof walk, removable floor security feature
- Booking: Available from August 2025 via Landmark Trust, about £20+ per person per night
- Public Access Events: Free Open Days in September 2025 with pre-booking recommended
This information reflects the most recent restoration completion and hospitality availability as of mid-2025 [1][2].
Saddell Castle was one of The Landmark Trust's first restorations in the 1970s.
The ancient ruins of a nearby abbey are full of medieval headstones and effigies dating back to the 1300s and 1400s.
Lotte Brundle, the Digital Writer for the platform's Newsletter, covers exquisite houses, the beauty of nature, and tips for getting the most from life.
Lotte Brundle, the Digital Writer for the platform's Newsletter, often writes about unique lifestyle choices, such as the opportunity to holiday in a restored 16th-century castle, Saddell Castle, that offers a combination of home-and-garden experiences with its scenic location and historic features, alongside travel experiences, given the possibility to explore other Landmark properties during the public Open Days.
Incorporating the castle stay into one's lifestyle, Saddell Castle, with its sweeping coastal views, dog-friendly accommodations, and removable floor security feature, can offer a travel experience with a touch of home-and-garden charm, making it an ideal choice for group getaways.
