Castles In Caithness: A Journey Through Time

​Caithness, nestled in the far northeast of Scotland, is a treasure trove of historic castles, each echoing tales of Norse heritage, clan rivalries, and royal connections. Whether you’re tracing the North Coast 500 or interested in the history of these sites, here are six captivating castles in Caithness that promise a memorable visit.​

Over the centuries, it witnessed sieges, imprisonments, and clan battles, including the infamous imprisonment of John Sinclair by his own father in the 16th century.

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe (north of Wick)

OS Grid Reference: ND 3784 5493

• Status: Famous ruin; partially preserved with conservation work.
• Famous for: Dramatic coastal cliff-top setting and strong links to Clan Sinclair.
• Details: A very atmospheric site – walking through it gives a real sense of medieval life. Restoration efforts are ongoing to prevent further coastal erosion.

Perched dramatically on the cliffs north of Wick, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a striking ruin that dates back to the late 15th century. Originally constructed by William Sinclair, 2nd Earl of Caithness, the castle served as a stronghold for Clan Sinclair. Over the centuries, it witnessed sieges, imprisonments, and clan battles, including the infamous imprisonment of John Sinclair by his own father in the 16th century. Today, the castle is managed by the Clan Sinclair Trust, which has undertaken preservation efforts to protect it from coastal erosion. Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of Sinclair Bay. ​

Castle of Mey (near John O’Groats)

OS Grid Reference: ND 2893 7387

• Status: Best preserved; open to visitors.
• Famous for: Being the beloved summer home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
• Details: Beautifully restored; has gardens, a visitor centre, and a tearoom.

The Castle of Mey, once known as Barrogill Castle, is renowned as the former residence of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. After purchasing it in 1952, she restored the 16th-century structure, transforming it into a cherished royal retreat. Located near John o’Groats, the castle is now open to the public from May to September, offering guided tours of its historic rooms and beautifully maintained gardens. ​

Castle of Old Wick (south of Wick)

OS Grid Reference: ND 368 487

• Status: Ruin, but well-preserved structurally.
• Famous for: Being one of the oldest castles in Scotland (built 12th century).
• Details: A simple tower design – stark and powerful, standing alone on a cliff. Very photogenic! *Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while Historic Scotland undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to this site.

Situated on a narrow headland south of Wick, the castle’s remains include a square tower that once stood four stories high. The castle is thought to have been constructed by Earl Harald Maddadson who was Orcadian through his mother and Scottish through his father, Matad, Earl of Atholl. From 1159 onward, he held the title of sole Earl of Orkney and Caithness. It is thought that he intended the castle to serve as his principal stronghold on the mainland. The castle has endured centuries of harsh weather and historical events, including sieges during clan feuds.

Although the castle is currently closed, it’s still worthwhile driving to the car park and walking to the first viewpoint where you can imagine the fortress’s former grandeur against the backdrop of the North Sea. ​

Keiss Castle (near Keiss village)

OS Grid Reference: ND 3569 6164

• Status: Picturesque ruin.
• Famous for: Classic romantic Scottish ruin, hanging over the cliffs by the sea.
• Details: You can walk to the ruins from Keiss Beach. A “new” Keiss Castle (an 18th-century mansion) is nearby and still lived in.

Constructed in the late 16th century by George Sinclair, 5th Earl of Caithness, the castle served as a residence for the Sinclair family. Its strategic coastal position offers stunning views of the sea, making it a favourite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. While the original structure is in ruins, a newer Keiss Castle was built nearby in the 18th century and remains a private residence. ​

Bucholie Castle (near Freswick, northeast Caithness)

OS Grid Reference: ND 3821 6583

• Status: Dramatic ruin; accessible but remote.
• Famous for: Its wild clifftop location and ties to Norse pirates.
• Details: Visiting is a real adventure: you cross a natural land bridge to reach it, and the site offers stunning views over the wild North Sea. The castle is situated on 100ft high cliffs and extreme caution is advised.  Best visited in dry, calm weather due to its exposed and rugged nature.

Bucholie Castle, also known as Bucholly Castle, is a lesser-known gem perched on a narrow promontory with sheer drops on either side. Believed to previously been a fortress known as Lambaborg established on the site around 1140 by Sweyn Asleifsson, the notorious pirate and raider, the castle later came under the ownership of the Mowat family until the 17th century. ​ The Mowats undertook significant renovations, renaming the stronghold Bucholie Castle after their estate in Aberdeen. The castle remained in the family’s possession until 1661, when it passed to the Sinclairs, after which it gradually fell into ruin.

Dunbeath Castle (south Caithness)

OS Grid Reference: ND 1580 2826

• Status: Private property; viewed from a distance.
• Famous for: Its striking white 17th-century mansion look atop sea cliffs.
• Details: Though you can’t tour the inside, it remains one of the most iconic silhouettes in Caithness.

The current structure, dating from the 17th century, was built on the site of an earlier medieval fortress. While the castle itself is privately owned and not open to the public, its dramatic location and architecture can be admired from surrounding viewpoints. The nearby village of Dunbeath offers additional historical sites, including the Dunbeath Heritage Centre, which celebrates the area’s rich cultural heritage. ​

Exploring the castles of Caithness offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s storied past, from royal retreats to clan strongholds. Many of these sites are accessible year-round, though it’s advisable to check opening times and access conditions, especially for those in remote or coastal locations.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking breathtaking landscapes, Caithness’s castles provide an unforgettable journey through time.

By Victoria Dixon
Orkney and Shetland fanatic, likes to capture life through a lens, loves creating, eclectic taste in music, enjoys being a Mum; would secretly love to be a star of the West End!

Pin it!