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Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle
4.5
Temporarily closedClosed until further notice
About
Inveraray Castle is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and their young family. Ancestral home of Clan Campbell. Iconic visitor attraction on the West coast of Scotland.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- Michelle S20 contributionsLovely castleWow it looks just like a fairytale castle. Took about 1 hour to go round the castle, could probable have spent 3+ hours there walking round all the garden and climbing up to the folly but having a heavy cold I didn't have the energy. Think you need to be fit to climb up there I believe it takes about 1-1 1/2 hours walking.Thank you for taking the time to write a review and give us a rating. Such a shame that you had a cold! Perhaps on your next visit, you'll get to enjoy the mild walk to the Dùn na Cuaiche watchtower.Written 31 May 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 May 2023
- christinedumbarton646 contributionsLovely gardensLovely castle and even lovelier gardens. Inside the castle itself doesn't take too long to see but it is very interesting. The gardens are huge and colourful with plenty of seats dotted around to allow you to take in the lovely ambience.Thank you for your kind rating and review.Written 31 May 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2023Travelled with familyWritten 20 May 2023
- aitches23Lincoln, United Kingdom31 contributionsUnderwhelmed but on the whole ok . Sadly would not re-visit .All in all ok , we presumed more of the castle would be open to visitors so we’re disappointed in that respect . The admission fee reflected many other castles we have visited over the last couple of years and with this one sadly we did not feel there was value for money compared to others . The tea room left a lot to be desired . Mediocre offerings . Maybe it was poor timing before the lunchtime rush ?Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry to hear you would not consider visiting again in the future. As you mention, our ticket prices are on the same level as many other historic properties of a similar size. We have 13 rooms currently open to the public, with a further room opening in 2024. If you would consider visiting again, we'd highly recommend a guided tour to get the most out of your visit. We also offer private apartment tours during certain times of the year which involves a further 10 rooms of the castle. Thanks again, and we'll hopefully see you again soon.Written 27 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 26 July 2023
- LisamagixLeeds, United Kingdom11 contributionsLovely day outA lovely castle and gardens, sadly not too much to see inside but what there is is beautiful and stunning. Tea room is lovely, does delicious homemade soups and sandwiches. Three mile woodland walk if you’re able. A very pleasant place to spend a few hours and an easy walk to the village.Thank you for taking the time to leave such lovely feedback. We are glad you enjoyed your time at the castle and gardens, and particularly enjoyed our tearoom and the surrounding woodland. We are sorry to hear that you felt there wasn’t much to see inside the castle - we currently have 13 rooms open to the public which cover three floors. We also offer private apartment tours during certain times of the year which involves a further 10 rooms of the castle if this is of interest.Written 28 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 27 July 2023
- MarcLondon, United Kingdom20 contributionsUnderwhelmed and over pricedAll a bit underwhelming but very expensive - for £16 a head I would expect to see more. What there is is well displayed etc but it does make it a VERY expensive day out. Avoid the tea room if your on a budget - the prices there are also high.Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback. We are sorry to hear that you found our prices expensive - we are competitively priced with other castles in Scotland of a similar size. As it is a lived-in family home there is a limit to how much we can show to the public, however, we do show 13 rooms covering 3 floors as well as the garden, and are hoping to open a 14th room next year. Regarding the Tearoom, we source local ingredients and produce for use in order to be as environmentally friendly as possible, therefore our prices reflect this. These are also comparable with Tearoom prices at other castles. Thank you again for providing feedback, it is truly appreciated.Written 31 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 July 2023
- Michelle M4 contributionsBit of a letdownIt's a lovely castle and walking towards it, we felt very excited to look around however you really don't get to see much of it at all. I think the ticket cost is therefore hugely overpriced for the proportion of the castle we saw. We went slowly round reading everything but were done in 20 mins, you really couldn't get absorbed in the place as only a few rooms are accessible, was let down as the tickets are expensive and we felt unfulfilled. The tea room is tiny and overcrowded so couldn't even get a cup of tea.Thank you for taking the time to review us. We are sorry to hear that you found our prices expensive - we are competitively priced with other castles in Scotland of a similar size. As it is a lived-in family home there is a limit to how much we can show to the public, however, we do show 13 rooms covering 3 floors as well as the garden, and are hoping to open a 14th room next year. Our tearoom is very popular and the team does well with the space that is available, putting out food and drink that is of a high standard. We have seating outside as well for our visitors for when there is limited availability inside. We do hope you visit us again!Written 14 August 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Travelled with familyWritten 12 August 2023
- Thomas R1 contributionInveraray CastleThis was my first visit to the castle and grounds. There is a lot to see inside the castle detailing the history of the castle and family who own it. I took a walk around the gardens, woods and also did the walk to dun na cuaiche, the views across the castle and surrounding area is stunning.Thank you for the great review. We're so pleased you enjoyed your visit to the castle and managed to do the walk to Dun Na Cuaiche. The viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas.Written 21 September 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Travelled soloWritten 28 August 2023
- Tracy C3 contributionsWorth a visitThe rooms that were set up were amazing. Lots of information and pictures about the family history. Beautiful gardens although these weren’t really accessible to all e.g. wheelchairs but to be fair they do let the less abled in for free. This would also limit the rooms they could see. Would have liked more items with the Campbell tartan in the shop.Thank you for taking the time to review us. We're so pleased you enjoyed your visit. We are on a mission to make Inveraray Castle and Argyll Estates as accessible as possible, and we value your feedback while we complete these works. While we know it is not a solution to the problem, we have created an accessibility guide which is on our website that outlines what is and isn't accessible at the current time. As you have already mentioned, we also provide free entry to guests who use mobility aids as we know their visit could be impacted by the gravel and historic nature of the property. It is also possible to park closer to the castle entrance. Once again, thank you for such lovely feedback. We hope to welcome you back to the castle in the future!Written 16 October 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 October 2023
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4.5
2,552 reviews
Excellent
1,536
Very good
731
Average
207
Poor
51
Terrible
28
Nix Moretta
3 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
Second visit, well run family business. Even met the Duke in the shop! Sausage rolls in the cafe are homemade and excellent value for money. Lovely staff, highly recommend.
Written 2 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah C
Boone, NC101 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
Inveraray Castle was the highlight of our Scottish trip. Since my sister and I are Campbells a visit was a top priority. We took the local buses from Edinburgh, spent the night in the Inveraray Hostel and came in a day early just so we could walk around the grounds before our ticket entry the next day. You did NOT disappoint! Everyone was kind - love how the guides said "Welcome Home" when we told them we were Campbells! (we are from the US) I thought the price was fair and we loved the guidebooks and gifts we purchased in your shop. It was the most beautiful castle I have seen - warm and cozy. (I love yellow) My sister loved the Hairy Coos on the estate. Keep up the good work. Hope to return soon. Scotland is amazing. Enjoy your winter break.
Written 31 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for leaving such a detailed review! We're happy to hear that Inveraray Castle was the highlight of your trip, and we love to welcome fellow Campbells to the ancestral home of the clan.
Our staff are always happy to welcome guests and answer any questions you might have. We hope you managed to get some lovely Campbell memorabilia. We're so pleased you had such a wonderful experience and we look forward to welcoming you back to the castle in the future.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TermiteTravels
Shrewsbury, UK21 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Fairytale castle! Very picturesque castle, with some stunning views. Weather wasn't great, but there's plenty to see inside the castle. Quite a lot of armor and swords. Nice formal gardens.
Written 19 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a lovely review! In Argyll we are definitely known for our dreich weather. We hope you managed to stay dry and warm in the castle. We have lots to see in the castle, and an extensive collection of weapons that date back to Culloden. We're so pleased you enjoyed your visit and managed to take a walk in our formal gardens too!
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GB
Edinburgh22 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Excellent visit to Inveraray Castle mid October. Staff were so helpful in explaining the history of Clan Campbell. Fabulous gardens to walk around, dogs are not allowed in the formal garden but lots of other great walks to enjoy. A great location to visit with happy knowledge staff.
Written 18 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for leaving such a wonderful review. We're so happy you enjoyed your visit to the Castle this autumn. Our friendly team of guides are always happy to chat about the history of the castle.
It's great to hear that you enjoyed a lovely stroll around the gardens. You are correct, dogs are not permitted in the formal gardens. However, we have many walks around the estate that your four-legged friend can accompany you on. After your walk, you can even take your dog into the tearoom too!
Written 19 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tracy C
3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
The rooms that were set up were amazing. Lots of information and pictures about the family history. Beautiful gardens although these weren’t really accessible to all e.g. wheelchairs but to be fair they do let the less abled in for free. This would also limit the rooms they could see. Would have liked more items with the Campbell tartan in the shop.
Written 13 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to review us. We're so pleased you enjoyed your visit.
We are on a mission to make Inveraray Castle and Argyll Estates as accessible as possible, and we value your feedback while we complete these works.
While we know it is not a solution to the problem, we have created an accessibility guide which is on our website that outlines what is and isn't accessible at the current time. As you have already mentioned, we also provide free entry to guests who use mobility aids as we know their visit could be impacted by the gravel and historic nature of the property. It is also possible to park closer to the castle entrance.
Once again, thank you for such lovely feedback. We hope to welcome you back to the castle in the future!
Written 16 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Charlie H
Middlesbrough, UK5 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Fantastic and stunning castle with gardens with walks up to the lookout tower on top of the hill a must for views. Only drawback was no disabled access to the café, toilet and gift shop as these are located in moat area of the castle.
The staff are very helpful which made for a lovely trip
The staff are very helpful which made for a lovely trip
Written 12 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the amazing review. We're so glad to hear you enjoyed your visit to the castle and gardens. It sounds as though you also walked up 'Dun Na Cuaiche'. It is a folly, but it was originally intended to be a watch tower. It offers stunning panoramic views of Inveraray when you reach the top!
We do have an accessible toilet on the ground floor of the Castle. Accessibility is something we are working on, and we have an accessibility guide on our website in the meantime. We have a lift currently in planning with the local council which will provide access to the basement area, where the gift shop and tearoom are situated.
We do hope you return again once we have this installed!
Written 13 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michael W
2 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Had a great time at the castle. The rooms were great with interesting facts and artifacts. The ground floor rooms were just super with superb decoration. The grandchildren simply loved the gold ships! The gardens were wonderful. Whilst we didn't walk around them all we saw plenty. That must be some gardening team! The tea rooms were great . Whilst the selection was limited, probably due to the dreadful weather, the selection of drinks and cakes was fabulous . I would love the recipe for the blueberry and lemon frangipan cake. It was wow! All in all a fabulous few hours for us all
Written 10 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time leave us such a detailed review! We're so pleased you and the family enjoyed your visit to the castle. We're very fortunate to display so many incredible historical objects. The gold ships you're referring to are called 'Nefs' and they were actually used as serving plates!
We're so proud of our gardening team, they work so hard to maintain the formal gardens. Regarding the tearoom, on the date of your visit, we were only serving cakes and tea/coffee. We're so glad you enjoyed your cakes though. and I will pass this on to our fantastic team. Perhaps in the future, we can share the secret to our tasty traybakes and cakes on social media!
Written 12 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
frogger120
Ramsey, UK111 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Just what castle should be like the exterior looks great, but the real joy is the interior it is beautiful. You are greeted with a smile and that carries on all the way through, the staff were very knowledgeable and helpful. It takes about 45mins to an hour to get round. Shop prices were a little steep. The tearoom was very nice prices were reasonable in there. The gardens looked amazing in their winter flush. Just a quick note if you do the castle then go to the old jail which is just around the corner on the same day you get a 20% discount just make sure you let the girl know at the ticket office in the jail.
Written 5 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to review us. We're so happy you enjoyed your visit to the castle. We're so lucky that our team maintains the castle so well, and you can see the wonderful rooms as they would have been when the castle was first built.
Our staff are always happy to welcome guests and share the history of Inveraray Castle. The items in the shop are uniquely sourced and we support the suppliers who provide such quality items.
If you visited the jail and you have a receipt then you can also get a 20% discount in the Castle too!
Written 12 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
WillWalkForCheese
Roseville, CA7 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
I loved the day we spent visiting the castle. We spent time indoors appreciating the vast collection of medieval weapons in the armory. Then a short walk around the beautiful gardens which included visiting with the local herd of Scottish highlander cattle. Then lunch in the courtyard was delicious, including a tasty assortment of desserts baked on-site. To work off our big lunch, we took a great hike to the top of a peak on the grounds which includes a "folly" (a small turret built as decoration). The hike is a bit strenuous, but very rewarding with great views of the castle, grounds, loch, and surrounding glen.
Written 4 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the wonderful and detailed review of your visit. We're so pleased you enjoyed your time at the Castle and made use of our wonderful formal gardens. We also have some lovely walks on the estate where you might spot some of our Highland Coo's in the fields.
I will let the team in the tearoom know that you had such a fantastic experience.
The 'folly' is called Dun na Cuaiche and the viewpoint at the top offers panoramic views of Inveraray! The walk can be a little steep so we do advise people to take their time and wear sensible shoes.
Written 12 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Patricia F
London, UK14 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
Absolutely loved my visit to Inveraray Castle. The bus ride from Glasgow Buchanan Street Station through some beautiful scenery dropped us off just outside the gates in the delightful town of Inveraray, designed by the Adams family at the same time as the castle in the 18th century. Beautiful grounds, the house felt alive and vibrant with many original furnishings of international significance. Booked the extra tour of the private apartments, held a few days each year, with a wonderful guide. Do go!
Written 30 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the amazing review. The journey up to Inveraray has some fantastic views. We're so pleased you enjoyed your visit to the castle and had some lovely walks on the grounds. We're so fortunate that the castle is so well maintained by our fantastic team.
Written 12 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ElenaR_77
Milan, Italy58 contributions
Unfortunately, I will be in Inveraray on a Tuesday in May, and I have read that the Castle is closed to visitors on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. I visited it years ago and remember it as one of the most beautiful places I have seen in Scotland and wanted my husband to see it too. Can you tell me if it is possible to get close to it and see it from the outside?
S Z R
Shepperton, UK18 contributions
Please can you let me know if dogs on leads allowed?
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray, UK
Hi,
Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead on the wider estate, but only guide dogs are allowed within the castle/gardens.
jenniferbE1357TB
Damascus, MD616 contributions
Is the castle open for touring on highland game day?
Cliff B
Rufford, UK30 contributions
I would expect so but will be very busy, and given social distancing you may have to book.
msch40
Helensburgh, UK41 contributions
What are the admission prices please
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray, UK
Please visit our Visitor Information page on our website for the current and updated prices.
Denis Lavoie V
1 contribution
Nous aimerions visiter le château de Inverary en nous y rendant en auto, est-ce que l'on peut visiter le château sans guide et combien cela coûte par personne en CN$ ?
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray, UK
Of course you can visit without a guide. We are open 1st April to 31st October and the entrance is £12.50 per adult. There is no audio guide as others have suggested, but we do have guide books available to purchase at the entrance.
Jeff L
Coventry, UK19 contributions
We are coming up soon but with a dog... are small dogs allowed ?
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray, UK
Unfortunately we do not allow dogs, except assistance dogs, in the castle or gardens. They are, however, allowed on the estate and our woodland walks.
Анастасия
Moscow, Russia
Hello! The castle is open until 17:00, but is the territory closed? I would like to arrive at 18:00 to walk around the territory, is this possible?
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray, UK
Thanks for your question.
The Car Park closes at 5pm at the same time as the last entry to the Castle. The Estate closes shortly afterwards to all incoming cars.
brianinboca
Delray Beach, FL1,126 contributions
How long did you spend here
SHARRYN R
SYDNEY21 contributions
Approximately 3 to 4 hours. It depends if you like to read all the information that is spread around the Castle. We stopped for afternoon tea. The best scones with jam and clotted cream. The gardens or spectacular and the Heiland Coos are so cute.
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Claim your listingINVERARAY CASTLE: Tickets, Tours & Things to Know (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Inveraray Castle
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Inveraray Castle:
- West Highlands, Lochs & Castles Day Tour Including Admission (From £77.03)
- Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles from Glasgow (From £45.80)
- The Inveraray Shore Experience (From £661.57)
- Inverary Castle & Loch Lomond Tour (From £147.58)
- West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles from Edinburgh (From £50.89)
- Hotels near Inveraray Castle:
- (0.46 mi) Brambles of Inveraray
- (0.41 mi) The Inveraray Inn, Signature Collection
- (0.73 mi) Newton Hall Guest House
- (0.44 mi) The George Hotel
- (1.02 mi) Rudha-Na-Craige
- Restaurants near Inveraray Castle:
- (0.53 mi) Samphire Seafood Restaurant
- (0.45 mi) Brambles Cafe
- (0.47 mi) Cottage Restaurant
- (0.49 mi) The George
- (0.42 mi) Ocho