A respite from continuous browsing is found in a secluded 16th century castle nestled on a Scottish coastline during the weekend.
Historic Saddell Castle on Scotland's Coast Now Open for Overnight Stays
Nestled on a picturesque promontory in Saddell Bay, overlooking the tranquil Kilbrannan Sound and the Isle of Arran, lies the restored 16th-century Saddell Castle. This Category A-listed building, steeped in history and charm, is now available for visitors to explore and even stay overnight[1][2].
Built in 1508, Saddell Castle was the chosen residence of the Bishop of Argyll, offering a strategic and beautiful location. The castle later came under the ownership of the Campbell family, who held it for nearly 400 years[3][4]. Today, the castle preserves its historic architectural features, including a crenellated rooftop walk that offers breathtaking coastal views[1].
The recent restoration project aimed to maintain the building’s historic integrity while making it suitable for modern bookings and stays. Extensive repairs were carried out on the masonry, with a complete reharling using hot lime mortar to preserve the original finish. Roofing repairs were also undertaken, alongside the addition of modern amenities such as bathrooms[1][2].
Saddell Castle can now be rented for stays starting from August 2025. The castle sleeps eight people and is dog-friendly. Pricing is approximately £20 per person per night, based on full occupancy of eight guests. The remote location offers a digital detox experience, with weak or no mobile signal[1][2].
In addition to Saddell Castle, five other Landmark properties at Saddell Bay will also be open to visitors on September 20 and 21, 2025: Saddell Lodge, Saddell House, Ferryman's Cottage, Cul-na-Shee, and Shore Cottage[1][2].
Visitors to Saddell Castle can enjoy the local wildlife, including seals, and watch the tide coming in and out over Antony Gormley's sculpture, GRIP IV, which stands on the rocks below[1]. Nearby, the ancient ruins of a medieval abbey are filled with headstones and effigies dating back to the 1300s and 1400s[1].
Caroline Stanford, a historian at The Landmark Trust, expressed that Saddell Castle was one of their first restorations in the 1970s and has now secured its future for another 50 years through comprehensive repair and internal improvements[1]. More information about staying at Saddell Castle can be found on The Landmark Trust's website.
References:
[1] The Landmark Trust. (2025). Saddell Castle. Retrieved from https://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/properties/saddell-castle
[2] The Times. (2025). Saddell Castle Now Available for Overnight Stays. Retrieved from https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/saddell-castle-now-available-for-overnight-stays-lqx98rjqc
[3] The Sunday Times. (2025). A Medieval Castle by the Sea: Saddell Castle Opens for Bookings. Retrieved from https://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/travel/uk_and_ireland/scotland/article1965662.ece
[4] The Fence. (2025). Lotte Brundle Joins The Landmark Trust as Digital Writer. Retrieved from https://www.thefencemag.co.uk/lotte-brundle-joins-the-landmark-trust-as-digital-writer/
- By choosing to stay at Saddell Castle, you'll be immersing yourself in a unique blend of history and modern comfort, making it an ideal home-and-garden setting for a memorable holiday.
- If you're seeking a restful escape, consider pairing your home-and-garden venture with a travel exploration of the nearby home-and-garden properties at Saddell Bay, offering diverse accommodations and a taste of Scotland's charming countryside.
