Top 5 Castles around Campsie
Best castles around Campsie offers a journey through historical sites set amidst the varied landscapes of Scotland. The region features the Campsie Fells, providing a dramatic backdrop to many locations. Visitors can explore ruins within country parks or discover ancient earthworks in secluded valleys. This area combines natural beauty with significant historical landmarks.
Best castles around Campsie
- The most popular castles is Mugdock Castle, a castle that stands on a rocky promontory, naturally defended by Mugdock Loch in medieval times. The surviving south-west tower, with its vaulted basement, is a notable feature.
- Another must-see spot is Lennox Castle Ruins, a historical site. These ruins, once a Neo-Norman mansion and later a psychiatric hospital, offer a compelling historical experience.
- Visitors also love Craigend Castle Ruins, the fragmentary remains of an impressive country house built in 1812. Its fine carving to the parapet and Gothic style are distinctive features.
- Campsie is known for medieval strongholds, ruined mansions, and ancient earthworks. The area offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from well-preserved towers to historical foundations.
- The castles around Campsie are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 140 upvotes and 97 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Mugdock Castle
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Craigend Castle Ruins
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Lennox Castle Ruins
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Antonine Wall at Bar Hill
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Croy Hill was a minor fort on the wall.
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Sir John de Graham's Castle
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Above all, the path through Mugdock-Forest is worth it.
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Home to a compatriot of William Wallace. Very interesting Earthworks from 13th century fort with commanding views across the Carron Valley and towards Meikle Bin.
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The original Castle on this site was built in the 13th century by the Graham family. The Grahams were a family on the rise and the family were made the Earls of Montrose in 1505. The most famous Graham resident of Mugdock Castle was James Graham (1612-1650) known as The Great Montrose. He was a poet and soldier who fought for the cause of King Charles I during the Wars of The Three Kingdoms (more commonly referred to as The English Civil Wars) and was marked as one of the greatest soldiers of the time. So great was his military fame that King Louis XIV offered him the role as Marshal of France. His success ultimately ran out in 1650 with the loss of The Battle of Carbisdale in Rosshire. Montrose was betrayed by a fellow Scotsman and was ultimately Hung, Drawn and Quartered for his part in the war. His campaigns were immortalised by Sir Walter Scott in his 1819 novel A Legend of Montrose.
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The Antonine Wall was a turf wall, built on stone foundations by the Romans, about 20 years after Hadrian's Wall. It stretches from coast to coast across the central belt of Scotland. Croy Hill was a minor fort on the wall.
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Unfortunately everything is fenced off, walled up or otherwise blocked off. But not bad for a walk. Unfortunately, it seems that a bunch of unreasonable people throw their rubbish in the forest there. From up here, go down to a mountain bike trail.
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The eerie ruins of Lennox Castle are situated in a secluded and rural spot. Built in the 1830s, the castle was converted into a psychiatric hospital in the early 20th century. At the time, the hospital was hailed as a groundbreaking facility and was the largest and best-equipped in Britain. However, the hospital was closed in 2002 amid ongoing reports of poor conditions for patients. These days, the impressive ruins are equally beautiful and haunting.
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Mugdock Castle and country park is free to enter and has free parking. For opening times and more information, visit: https://www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk.
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Built in 1812, this is the fragmentary remains of what was an extremely well-detailed and impressive country house, which continues to form a significant feature in the landscape. Although much of the original structure of the building has gone, and the building is a roofless, there is still sufficient fabric to show that this was a country house of some distinction with extremely good decoration and fine features. The fine carving to the parapet is especially distinctive. There is photographic evidence to show that the interior of the building continued the Gothic style and included a lavish rib-vaulted entrance hall. It is thought that the house began to lose its structure in the 1950s and 60s. The Gothic building style was fashionable in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was a romantic, highly decorative building type echoing interest in the medieval period and its values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some historically significant castles to visit around Campsie?
The Campsie area is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Mugdock Castle, a 13th-century stronghold of the Clan Graham, known for its surviving south-west tower and vaulted basement. Another compelling site is Lennox Castle Ruins, which was originally a Neo-Norman mansion and later a significant psychiatric hospital. Also, consider Sir John de Graham's Castle (Dundaff Castle), a 12th-century motte and bailey castle associated with William Wallace's ally.
Are there family-friendly castles or activities near Campsie?
Yes, Mugdock Castle, located within Mugdock Country Park, is an excellent family-friendly option. The park offers walking trails, adventure playgrounds, and BBQ areas, making it ideal for a day out with children. While the castle itself is a ruin, its accessible nature within the park provides a good balance of history and outdoor fun.
What kind of natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see when visiting castles in the Campsie area?
Many castles in the Campsie area are set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Mugdock Castle, for instance, is situated on a rocky promontory with views over what was once a much larger Mugdock Loch. Lennox Castle Ruins offer dramatic views overlooking the Campsie Fells. Sir John de Graham's Castle provides commanding views across the Carron Valley.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The Campsie area offers various outdoor activities. Near the castles, you can find numerous hiking and biking opportunities. For instance, there are easy hikes around Lennox Castle Ruins, including a 6.8 km loop from Lennoxtown. You can also find gravel biking routes, such as the 'View of Glasgow – Mugdock Castle loop from Hillfoot' which passes by Mugdock Castle. For more details on routes, explore the easy hikes and gravel biking guides for Campsie.
Are there any walking trails specifically around the castles?
Yes, several castles are integrated into walking routes. Mugdock Castle is within Mugdock Country Park, which has many walking trails. The area around Lennox Castle Ruins is popular for hikers, with an easy 6.8 km loop starting from Lennoxtown. These walks allow you to explore the historical sites while enjoying the surrounding nature.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Campsie?
Visiting during spring or autumn often provides pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins and walking trails, with fewer crowds than peak summer. The changing foliage in autumn can also add to the scenic beauty. While winter walks are possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions, especially if exploring the more secluded sites like Lennox Castle Ruins.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden' historical sites besides the main castles?
Beyond the prominent castles, the region also features sites like the Antonine Wall at Bar Hill. This Roman turf wall, built on stone foundations, offers a glimpse into Scotland's ancient past and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While not a castle, it's a significant historical landmark in the area.
What are the accessibility options for visiting these castles, including parking and public transport?
Mugdock Castle, located within Mugdock Country Park, offers free parking and is generally accessible. For other sites like Lennox Castle Ruins, while popular for walks, the ruins themselves are often fenced off for safety. Public transport options vary by location; it's advisable to check local bus routes to nearby towns like Milngavie (for Mugdock) or Lennoxtown (for Lennox Castle) and plan accordingly.
Can I bring my dog to the castles and surrounding areas?
Many of the outdoor areas and country parks around the castles, such as Mugdock Country Park where Mugdock Castle is located, are dog-friendly. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to follow local signage. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Campsie?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The dramatic backdrops of the Campsie Fells, the sense of exploring ancient ruins, and the opportunity for scenic walks are frequently highlighted. For example, Mugdock Castle is noted for its beautiful setting and the surrounding country park, while Lennox Castle Ruins are often described as both beautiful and haunting, offering a unique historical experience.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the castles for refreshments?
Yes, particularly around more developed sites. Mugdock Country Park, home to Mugdock Castle, has a visitor center which often includes refreshment facilities. For other castles, you might need to venture into nearby towns or villages like Milngavie or Lennoxtown, where you'll find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants to refuel after your exploration.
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