Loch Leven Castle

Loch Leven Castle stands on an island in the middle of Loch Leven, a freshwater loch in Perth and Kinross. The ruins include a five-storey tower house built in the 14th century, one of Scotland’s oldest surviving tower houses. The castle’s curtain wall may date from the English occupation during the Wars of Scottish Independence. It was held by the Douglas family for three centuries after being granted to William Douglas in the late 1300s. Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned here in 1567–68 and forced to abdicate before escaping with help from her gaoler’s family. The castle was a state prison for much of its history, holding figures like Robert II before he became king and the Archbishop of St Andrews in 1478. In 1567, Mary stayed in Glassin Tower during her captivity, falling ill shortly after arrival and miscarrying twins. Her household included Lady Margaret Douglas, her half-brother’s mother, and George Douglas, who later aided her escape. The castle’s grounds still hold the graves of Mary’s unborn children, marked by a small stone. Visitors reach the island by ferry and walk among the ruined walls and tower. The keep’s five storeys offer views across the loch to the surrounding hills. The site is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is said to be haunted by Mary’s spirit, still waiting for her lost children. The castle’s history is visible in its weathered stone and the stories of those who were imprisoned or held power here.