How do I get to Craigmillar Castle from Edinburgh city center?

Craigmillar Castle is located south of Edinburgh city center and can be reached by a short bus ride or a 30-minute walk. Public transport options include local buses that stop near Craigmillar Castle Road.

What is the historical significance of Craigmillar Castle?

Craigmillar Castle is historically significant as a well-preserved late medieval Scottish fortress linked to Mary Queen of Scots and key political events, including the plot against her husband, Lord Darnley.

Can I explore the interior of Craigmillar Castle?

Yes, visitors can explore the castle's extensive ruins, including the tower house, great hall, courtyards, and various passageways. The site offers a rich experience of medieval architecture and history.

Is Craigmillar Castle suitable for family visits?

Craigmillar Castle is family-friendly with many stairs and passageways to explore. However, some areas may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

When is the best time to visit Craigmillar Castle?

The castle is best visited during the warmer months from spring to early autumn when the surrounding parkland is at its most attractive and outdoor exploration is comfortable.

Craigmillar Castle

Craigmillar Castle: a late medieval Scottish fortress near Edinburgh

Craigmillar Castle Road, Scotland, United Kingdom

Late Medieval (14th–15th c.)

Partially Preserved

Craigmillar Castle stands prominently on the southern outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland, offering a remarkable glimpse into the country's late medieval fortifications and noble residences. This castle is celebrated as one of Scotland's best preserved castles, retaining much of its original character as a medieval stronghold despite centuries of change. Its location near the capital city places it within an urban setting, yet it evokes the atmosphere of a rural retreat from its historical past.

The castle's origins trace back to the early 15th century, beginning with the construction of an L-plan tower house that formed the core of the complex. This tower house, rising approximately 17 meters to its battlements with walls nearly 3 meters thick, was among the earliest examples of this architectural form in Scotland. The tower included a great hall on the first floor and a series of interconnected private chambers. Notably, the so-called "Queen Mary's Room" on the first floor is traditionally associated with Mary Queen of Scots, although historical evidence suggests she likely stayed in a more private apartment within the courtyard's east range.

Historical development and ownership

The castle was granted in 1374 by King Robert II to Sir Simon Preston, whose family held the estate for nearly three centuries. Over time, the Prestons expanded and fortified the castle, reflecting both the defensive needs and residential aspirations of its owners. In the 15th century, a robust enclosure wall with round towers at each corner was constructed around the original tower house. These walls were equipped with machicolations, architectural features designed to allow defenders to drop projectiles or pour boiling substances on attackers at the base of the walls, a testament to the castle's military function.

During the 16th century, the castle underwent further expansion with the addition of an outer curtain wall that created a large outer courtyard. This development transformed Craigmillar from a purely defensive structure into a more comfortable and complex residence, incorporating ancillary buildings such as a private family chapel within the courtyard walls. The castle's layout, with multiple ranges and defensive features, exemplifies the evolution of Scottish castles from fortified tower houses to more elaborate noble residences.

Craigmillar Castle and Mary Queen of Scots

Mary Queen of Scots is closely linked to Craigmillar Castle's history. She visited the castle several times and stayed there during pivotal moments in her reign. In 1566, the castle was the site of a secret meeting involving conspirators such as the Earls of Argyll, Huntly, and Bothwell, as well as Sir James Balfour and William Maitland of Lethington. These nobles plotted the removal of Mary's husband, Henry, Earl of Darnley. The following year, Darnley was found murdered after the explosion of the house where he was staying, an event that remains one of Scotland's most infamous royal intrigues.

Mary's association with Craigmillar extends beyond political conspiracies; the castle served as a refuge after the murder of her secretary, David Rizzio. The castle's role in these dramatic episodes underscores its importance not only as a military and residential site but also as a stage for Scotland's turbulent political history during the Renaissance period.

Later history and architectural changes

After nearly 300 years of Preston family ownership, David Preston sold Craigmillar Castle in 1660 to Sir John Gilmour. The Gilmour family initiated significant renovations, including the construction of a new residential range on the west side of the inner courtyard. This addition reflected changing tastes and the desire for modern comforts while maintaining the castle's historic fabric.

During the 18th century, the Gilmours relocated to nearby Inch House, and Craigmillar gradually fell into disrepair. Despite this decline, the castle's substantial stonework and defensive walls remained largely intact. In 1813, a walled-up skeleton was discovered in one of the vaults, adding to the castle's aura of mystery and historical intrigue.

Architectural features and castle layout

The tower house and great hall

The original L-plan tower house is the centerpiece of Craigmillar Castle. Its massive walls and battlements are characteristic of Scottish tower houses of the period. The great hall on the first floor was the social and administrative heart of the castle, hosting feasts, meetings, and courtly events. The tower's design includes defensive features such as narrow windows and thick walls, balancing comfort with security.

Enclosure walls and defensive structures

The 15th-century curtain wall enclosing the tower house is fortified with round corner towers and topped with machicolations. These defensive features allowed defenders to protect the castle effectively against siege tactics common in the medieval period. The walls also contain gunholes shaped like inverted keyholes, designed for early firearms, illustrating the adaptation of the castle's defenses to evolving military technology.

Outer courtyard and ancillary buildings

The outer courtyard created in the 16th century provided space for additional domestic buildings, stables, and service areas. Within the courtyard lies a private family chapel, reflecting the religious practices of the castle's inhabitants. The courtyard's layout facilitated both defense and daily life, with multiple access points and secure boundaries.

Gardens, parkland, and heritage trees

Surrounding Craigmillar Castle is an expansive parkland that once served as the castle's gardens and agricultural land. Today, Craigmillar Castle Park preserves these green spaces, offering visitors a sense of the castle's historical setting as a rural retreat. Notably, at the castle's entrance stand ancient yew trees (Taxus baccata) of considerable age and historical significance. These trees, planted to frame the castle's entrance, are believed to have provided wood for bows and arrows, linking the natural landscape to the castle's martial heritage.

The local council actively promotes these "heritage trees" as part of Edinburgh's cultural and natural heritage, encouraging public appreciation of the castle's environment alongside its architectural and historical importance.

Modern use and visitor experience

Today, Craigmillar Castle is a popular destination for visitors interested in Scotland's medieval history and architecture. The castle's well-preserved ruins offer numerous stairs, passageways, and rooms to explore, making it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts and families alike. Its proximity to Edinburgh makes it an accessible alternative or complement to the more famous Edinburgh Castle.

The castle also serves as a venue for special events, including wedding ceremonies held in the Sala Grande, a historic hall that can accommodate up to 60 guests. This use highlights the castle's continuing role as a place of significance and celebration.

Visitors can appreciate the castle's layered history, from its origins as a fortified tower house through its expansions and residential adaptations, to its present status as a cherished heritage site. The combination of architectural grandeur, historical intrigue, and scenic surroundings makes Craigmillar Castle a unique and enriching experience.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How do I get to Craigmillar Castle from Edinburgh city center?: Craigmillar Castle is located south of Edinburgh city center and can be reached by a short bus ride or a 30-minute walk. Public transport options include local buses that stop near Craigmillar Castle Road.
What is the historical significance of Craigmillar Castle?: Craigmillar Castle is historically significant as a well-preserved late medieval Scottish fortress linked to Mary Queen of Scots and key political events, including the plot against her husband, Lord Darnley.
Can I explore the interior of Craigmillar Castle?: Yes, visitors can explore the castle's extensive ruins, including the tower house, great hall, courtyards, and various passageways. The site offers a rich experience of medieval architecture and history.
Is Craigmillar Castle suitable for family visits?: Craigmillar Castle is family-friendly with many stairs and passageways to explore. However, some areas may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
When is the best time to visit Craigmillar Castle?: The castle is best visited during the warmer months from spring to early autumn when the surrounding parkland is at its most attractive and outdoor exploration is comfortable.

Photo gallery

Click to view

Photo by Photograph by Stuart Yeates, from en:Flickr•CC BY-SA 2.0

1 photo • Click any image to view in full screen

Information

Hill Castle

Address

Craigmillar Castle Road, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Loading map...

Visitor reviews

No reviews yet. Been here? Write the first review and help other travelers!

Write the first review

Visited this castle? Share your experience

Your review helps other travelers and adds first-hand knowledge to our encyclopedia.

Write a review

Nearby castles

2.6 km

Liberton Tower

United Kingdom, United Kingdom

Liberton Tower stands prominently in Liberton, a suburb of Edinburgh, Scotland, as a remarkable example of a 15th-century Scottish fortified tower house. This four-storey stone structure exemplifies the typical fortified homes built by the Scottish nobility during the Late Medieval period. Its enduring presence offers a tangible connection to Scotland's turbulent history and architectural heritage. Historical background and ownership The earliest documented ownership of Liberton Tower dates back to the mid-15th century, with the Dalmahoy family recorded as proprietors from at least 1453. The Dalmahoys were a prominent Scottish family, and their legacy is visibly preserved through a carved panel displaying their family coat of arms on the tower's south wall. This heraldic emblem serves as a lasting testament to their influence and connection to the site. Subsequently, the estate transitioned to a branch of the Forrester family of Corstorphine, reflecting the common practice of land and property transfers among Scottish gentry during the period. In the late 16th century, ownership passed to William Little, who notably served twice as Provost of Edinburgh in 1586 and 1591. Little's tenure marked a shift in the tower's residential use, as he constructed the nearby Liberton House and abandoned the tower as a noble residence by 1610. Following this change, Liberton Tower was repurposed for agricultural use, illustrating a significant transformation from a defensive noble dwelling to a functional farm building. This adaptation reflects broader socio-economic changes in Scotland during the early modern period. Military significance and 17th-century conflict The tower's history is further marked by its involvement in the Anglo-Scottish War during the mid-17th century. Around 1650, during Oliver Cromwell's invasion of Edinburgh, evidence suggests that Liberton Tower was caught in the conflict. Archaeological findings such as cannonballs in the surrounding fields, charcoal deposits within the structure, and visible damage to the building indicate its role in the military actions of the time. One notable consequence of the conflict was the removal of the tower's original parapets, the low protective walls that once lined the roof, likely damaged or dismantled during or after the siege. These physical scars bear witness to the turbulent history that the tower endured during this period of civil and military unrest. Architectural features and preservation Liberton Tower is characterized by its compact rectangular footprint, measuring approximately 10.6 meters east to west and 7.9 meters north to south. The tower rises four storeys high, constructed from robust masonry typical of Scottish tower houses of the 15th century. Its walls are coated with traditional yellow harling, a lime-based render that provides weatherproofing and a distinctive, austere appearance. The tower's fenestration is notably asymmetrical, with small windows strategically placed primarily for defense rather than illumination. This design reflects the dual role of such structures as both homes and fortifications. The south wall's carved panel bearing the Dalmahoy coat of arms remains a unique decorative element amid the otherwise plain exterior, linking the building directly to its historical owners. Internally, the tower's layout would have included a great hall, private chambers, and storage spaces typical of Scottish tower houses, though much of the interior detail has been lost or altered through centuries of use and adaptation. Restoration and current condition Despite centuries of change, Liberton Tower remains well preserved, thanks largely to restoration efforts, most notably those undertaken in 1994. These works have maintained the tower's medieval form and character, preserving its historical fabric and architectural integrity. The tower is recognized as a Category A listed building since 1966, a designation reserved for structures of national or international importance. This status ensures ongoing protection and highlights the tower's cultural and heritage significance within Scotland. Liberton tower in context Liberton Tower stands as a significant example of the hill castle typology in Scotland, situated on a slight elevation that provided strategic advantage and visibility over the surrounding landscape. Its construction and evolution mirror the broader historical trends in Scottish noble residences, from fortified homes in the Late Medieval period to agricultural repurposing in the early modern era. The tower's story is intertwined with notable historical figures and events, including the Dalmahoy family, the Forresters, and William Little, as well as the military conflicts of the 17th century. Its survival and preservation offer valuable insights into Scottish architectural and social history. Visiting liberton tower Today, Liberton Tower is a protected historic monument accessible to visitors interested in Scotland's medieval architecture and history. While it no longer functions as a residence or defensive structure, its imposing stone walls and heraldic carvings provide a compelling glimpse into the past. Visitors can appreciate the tower's exterior features, including the harled walls and the Dalmahoy coat of arms, and explore the surrounding landscape that once bore witness to significant historical events. The tower's preservation ensures that it remains an important cultural landmark within the Edinburgh region.

Details

4 km

Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Old Town is a remarkable historic district that retains much of its medieval street plan and a wealth of Reformation-era architecture. The area is anchored by the famous Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare that extends from the imposing Edinburgh Castle perched atop an ancient volcanic crag down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey. This main artery, running west to east on a steep slope, forms the spine of the Old Town and is lined with narrow closes and wynds—tight alleyways that descend sharply to the north and south, reflecting the medieval urban fabric. Geological and urban formation The Old Town's unique layout is shaped by the crag and tail landform, a geological feature created during the last ice age. Glaciers carved the landscape, leaving behind a hard volcanic rock crag on which the Edinburgh Castle stands, while softer soil was pushed aside to form a tapering ridge or 'tail' extending eastwards. This natural defensive advantage was exploited in the city's early development, with the castle established as a fortress on the crag and the settlement growing along the tail. The surrounding terrain included marshlands to the south and the Nor Loch, a man-made lake to the north, which further enhanced the defensibility of the site. Medieval fortifications and street layout The Old Town was originally enclosed by city walls with several gates controlling access along the main road. Although only fragments of these walls remain today, their impact on the urban form is still evident. The linear nature of the Royal Mile with its narrow side alleys is characteristic of northern European medieval towns. The street network was compact and vertical, with buildings tightly packed along the ridge, maximizing the use of limited space. Architectural landmarks and notable buildings Among the significant structures in the Old Town are St. Giles' Cathedral, known for its distinctive crown steeple and historical role in the Scottish Reformation. The General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland reflects the area's religious heritage. Educational and cultural institutions such as the Old College of the University of Edinburgh and the National Museum of Scotland contribute to the district's rich architectural tapestry. The modern Scottish Parliament Building represents a contemporary addition, blending with the historic fabric. Underground vaults and hidden passages The Old Town is notable for its extensive network of underground vaults and hidden passages, remnants of earlier construction phases and expansions. These subterranean spaces were used for various purposes over the centuries, including storage, workshops, and housing. They add a layer of mystery and historical depth to the urban environment and are a point of interest for visitors exploring the city's past. Urban development from the 18th century onwards From the late 18th century, the Old Town saw significant changes in its street pattern with the introduction of wider north-south routes such as the North Bridge and South Bridge, later complemented by George IV Bridge. These new thoroughfares improved connectivity and facilitated urban growth beyond the medieval confines. The mid-19th century brought more organic street forms with the creation of Cockburn Street, designed by architects Peddie and Kinnear in 1856 to provide better access between the Royal Mile and the rebuilt Waverley Station. This blend of rectilinear and serpentine streets illustrates the evolving urban fabric adapting to modern needs while respecting historic context. World heritage status and cultural significance Edinburgh Old Town is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation known as "The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh," inscribed in 1995. This recognition highlights the district's outstanding universal value as an exceptionally well-preserved medieval core with layers of architectural and historical significance. The Old Town continues to be a vibrant area, balancing its role as a living neighborhood, a cultural hub, and a major tourist destination. Visiting Edinburgh Old Town Visitors to Edinburgh Old Town can explore a diverse range of attractions, from the imposing Edinburgh Castle with its military history and panoramic views, to the atmospheric closes and wynds that evoke the medieval past. The area's museums, churches, and government buildings offer insights into Scotland's history, culture, and governance. Walking tours often include the underground vaults, providing a unique perspective on the city's layered development.

Details

4.3 km

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Castle stands as a majestic symbol of Scotland's rich heritage, dominating the skyline of the capital city from its strategic perch on Castle Rock, an ancient volcanic plug. This historic fortress, one of the oldest fortified sites in Europe, has played a pivotal role in Scotland's royal and military history for over a millennium. Its commanding position offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh, making it not only a significant cultural landmark but also a popular tourist destination. The castle's origins trace back to prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence confirming human occupation since at least the Iron Age. Over the centuries, Edinburgh Castle evolved from a royal residence to a formidable military stronghold, witnessing numerous sieges and battles that shaped Scottish history. Known as the "Defender of the nation," the castle has housed kings and queens, served as a prison, and safeguarded the treasured Honours of Scotland, the nation's crown jewels and regalia. Early history and royal significance The strategic importance of Castle Rock was recognized early, with a royal castle established during the reign of David I in the 12th century. The castle became the principal royal residence and administrative center for Scottish monarchs until the early 17th century. One of the castle's most enduring features is St Margaret's Chapel, built in the early 12th century in honor of Queen Margaret (later canonized as Saint Margaret), who died there in 1093. This chapel is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh and remains a site for weddings and christenings. The castle was the birthplace of King James VI in 1566, who later united the crowns of Scotland and England in 1603. During this period, the castle also housed the Honours of Scotland, including the crown, scepter, and sword of state, first used together at the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots in 1543. The Royal Palace within the castle complex contains the Laich Hall and the Birth Chamber of James VI, underscoring its importance as a royal residence. Military role and architectural evolution Following the Union of the Crowns in 1603, Edinburgh Castle's role as a royal residence diminished, transitioning primarily into a military garrison. Its defenses were continually upgraded in response to evolving military technology and threats, particularly during the Wars of Scottish Independence and the Jacobite Risings of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The castle endured at least 26 recorded sieges, making it the most besieged fortress in Britain and one of the most attacked in the world. The Lang Siege (1571–1573) was particularly destructive, leading to the near-total destruction of medieval defenses by artillery bombardment. Subsequent rebuilding introduced new fortifications such as the Half Moon Battery, constructed between 1573 and 1588, which remains a distinctive curved rampart on the castle's profile. One of the castle's most famous artillery pieces is Mons Meg, a massive 15th-century siege cannon gifted to King James II in 1457. Although it has not been operational since the 17th century, Mons Meg is prominently displayed on a terrace near St Margaret's Chapel, symbolizing the castle's military heritage. Defensive structures and military facilities The castle's natural defenses are enhanced by steep cliffs on three sides, with access controlled through a series of gates on the east side, including the Portcullis Gate and the Argyle Tower, named after a nobleman once imprisoned there. The Esplanade, established in the 18th century, serves as a parade ground and hosts military ceremonies. Military buildings from the 18th century, such as the New Barracks (1799) and the Queen Anne Building (1708), accommodate soldiers and officers and now house regimental museums. The castle also includes a former military prison, expanded in the 19th century and used until 1923, and a munitions store converted into the National War Museum of Scotland. Cultural significance and modern use Edinburgh Castle remains a vibrant symbol of Scottish identity and heritage. It hosts the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo during the Edinburgh International Festival, attracting visitors worldwide. The castle's One O'Clock Gun, fired daily since 1861, continues a long-standing tradition as a time signal for ships in Edinburgh's harbor. The castle is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, with numerous listed buildings reflecting its architectural and historical importance. It is Scotland's most-visited paid tourist attraction, drawing over 1.4 million visitors annually. Crown Square, laid out in the 15th century, is the heart of the castle complex, surrounded by the Royal Palace, Great Hall, Queen Anne Building, and the Scottish National War Memorial. The Great Hall, completed in 1511 by King James IV, features one of Scotland's two surviving medieval hammerbeam roofs and was used for grand banquets and state events. The Scottish National War Memorial, built in the 1920s on the site of a demolished medieval church, honors Scottish soldiers who died in World Wars and later conflicts. It is adorned with stained glass and sculptural decorations, adding to the castle's cultural depth. Prison history and notable events During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Edinburgh Castle served as Scotland's most secure prison, housing hundreds of prisoners of war, especially from the Napoleonic Wars. A notable event occurred in 1811 when forty-nine French prisoners escaped by cutting through the castle walls and descending the southern crag using ropes. In World War II, the castle played a secretive role by hiding the Honours of Scotland in David's Tower, concealed in a medieval latrine closet to protect them from enemy forces. Architectural styles and preservation Edinburgh Castle's architecture is a rich tapestry reflecting its long history and varied functions. The complex incorporates elements from the High Medieval period through the Renaissance and later military architectural styles. The castle's structures have undergone extensive restoration, especially from the 19th century onward, to preserve its historic fabric while accommodating modern visitor needs. The oldest surviving structure, St Margaret's Chapel, exemplifies early medieval ecclesiastical architecture with its simple yet enduring design. The Great Hall showcases Renaissance influences with its grand scale and decorative hammerbeam roof. Military fortifications like the Half Moon Battery and Argyle Battery demonstrate advancements in artillery defense from the 16th and 17th centuries. The New Barracks and other 18th-century buildings reflect Georgian military architecture, blending functionality with imposing presence. Visitor experience and significance Visitors to Edinburgh Castle can explore a wealth of historic buildings, museums, and exhibitions that narrate Scotland's turbulent past and cultural achievements. The castle's elevated position provides panoramic views of Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, both part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. The castle's blend of royal history, military heritage, and cultural significance makes it an essential destination for those interested in Scotland's national story. Its ongoing military presence, combined with public access and educational programs, ensures that Edinburgh Castle remains a living monument bridging past and present.

High Medieval (11th–13th c.)

Details

Back to United Kingdom castles Explore all castles