Kilchurn Castle
40 minute walk from Loch Awe station · Highlands and Argyll
Kilchurn Castle is a historic ruined structure located on a rocky peninsula at the northeastern end of Loch Awe in Argyll and Bute. Originally established in the mid-15th century by the Campbells of Glenorchy, this former five-storey tower house served as a primary base for one of Scotland’s most powerful clans.
The site is significant for its dramatic evolution from a medieval stronghold to a modern barracks capable of housing 200 troops. Visitors can view notable architectural features such as circular corner turrets and a courtyard that still contains the remains of a turret toppled by a violent lightning storm in 1760.
Today, the castle is a scheduled monument in the care of Historic Environment Scotland. While the interior is currently closed for conservation, you can still enjoy walking around the exterior of the ruins. During the summer, you can experience the scenic beauty of the loch and see the site that once inspired the artist J. M. W. Turner.
The castle is reached from the roadside under the nearby railway viaduct. There is no vehicular access and the castle is not signposted. Access is over agricultural land via the loch-side, which floods periodically, so caution is advised. Strong footwear recommended.
Visitor information
- Place type
- Castle
- Good for
- Architecture, Castles, Lochs, rivers & waterfalls, Military history
- Characteristics
- Lakeside, Medieval, Ruin, Scheduled Monument
- Admission
- Free
- Region
- Highlands and Argyll
Stations within walking distance
- Loch Awe station — 40 min walk, 3.2 km
Other places near Loch Awe
- St. Conan's Kirk — 14 min walk from the station
- Beinn a' Bhuiridh, near Loch Awe — 18 min walk from the station
- Beinn a' Chochuill & Beinn Eunaich — 24 min walk from the station
- Kilchurn Castle, Loch Awe — 28 min walk from the station