Castles carry so much mystery, history and untold stories. Once belonging to the nobility, now they have either been repurposed, refurbished for preservation purposes or simply ruined over the years. Nevertheless, there are plenty of castles worth a visit near Glasgow for a wee day out.
1. Bothwell Castle
Bothwell Castle is a 14th-century castle ruin located a mere 25-minute drive from Glasgow by the Clyde Walkway river walking path. Visitors can witness the remains of the spacious courtyard area, two towers, the hall block and some more original features. The castle was considered one of the largest castles of medieval times: it was used up until the 18th century, yet was never fully finished, as the expansion plans were never completed.
How to get there: 25 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train to Uddingston, followed by a long walk.
2. Dumbarton Castle
Dumbarton Castle is the oldest on the castles near Glasgow list, built in the 5th century and is backed by the twin summits of a volcanic outcrop that is the Dumbarton Rock that provides visitors with some dramatic views over the meeting of the River Clyde with the River Leven. The scenic castle played an important role throughout history, being the capital of the British Kingdom of Strathclyde up until it became a prominent royal fortress during the Middle Ages. Dumbarton Castle was used up until the 19th century, and the current remains are mostly from the 18th-century renovation. To make it into a full day trip, after you’re done visiting the castle, check out the brand new restaurant with views, Scotts Greenock that is not too far away from Dumbarton.
How to get there: just over half an hour by car, or around 40 minutes on the train to Dumbarton East with a short walk.
3. Newark Castle
If after visiting Dumbarton Castle you’ve still not had enough of all the castle views, check out Newark Castle in Port Glasgow. The 15th-century castle offers stunning vistas over River Clyde and was once a noble residence built by George Maxwell of the Maxwell Clan. Newark Castle ended up having multiple owners up until 1909 when it was passed onto Historic Scotland.
How to get there: 30 minutes by car, or 50 minutes by train to Port Glasgow.
4. Rowallan Castle
Those who enjoy fairytale-like vibes will love Rowallan Castle half an hour from Glasgow. The historic castle boasts some authentic Renaissance-inspired features and offers a quaint backdrop in Ayrshire. The grounds span over 600 acres that go back to the ninth century, with the castle itself dating back to the 13th century. Plus, you can book it for an overnight stay, and there is also a massive golf course for guests to enjoy!
How to get there: 30 minutes by car.
5. Balloch Castle
Balloch Castle is located within the Balloch Castle & Country Park on the banks of Loch Lomond and is one of the newer castles near Glasgow. The walled gardens stretch out over 200 acres with nature trails and stunning views. Balloch Castle was built in the 19th century in Tudor Gothic style after an old 13th-century castle was demolished by the owners. Within the national park, guests will also find two pleasure gardens, a Chinese garden, a Kitchen Garden, and more.
How to get there: 50 minutes by car, or one hour and 10 minutes by train to Balloch.