The allure of spending the night in a centuries-old Scottish castle is a dream that captivates many travellers. Perched atop sheer cliffs overlooking the choppy waters of the Firth of Clyde, Culzean Castle stands as an impressive architectural jewel on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast. This former home of the Kennedy Clan has welcomed countless distinguished guests over its 600-year history, including a U.S. President. Today, The Loch & Quay’s readers can discover the enchanting experience of staying overnight in Culzean Castle.
History of Culzean Castle
Culzean Castle’s origins date back to the 14th century, when the Kennedy Clan, descendants of Robert the Bruce, first established a stronghold on these dramatic seaside cliffs. The castle has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries, transforming from a medieval fortress into an elegant Georgian mansion. In 1945, the combined estate of Culzean Castle and its extensive country park was gifted to the National Trust for Scotland, ensuring the preservation of this historic site for generations to come.
One of the castle’s most famous guests was President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was presented with a personal suite on the top floor in recognition of Scotland’s gratitude to the United States during World War II. Eisenhower stayed at Culzean on four separate occasions, including once while he was serving as President. Today, visitors can explore the Eisenhower Apartment, a private six-bedroom hotel nestled discreetly within the castle’s upper levels.
Architecture and Design
Culzean Castle’s architectural grandeur is a testament to its storied past. The elegant stonework, narrow archways, and twisting pathways leading down to the shoreline evoke a palpable sense of history. Inside, the castle’s interiors are a harmonious blend of Baroque, Palladian, and Neoclassical influences, with ornate ceilings, Corinthian columns, and impressive collections of antique furnishings and artwork.
One of the castle’s most striking features is the sweeping, red-carpeted staircase that ascends from the main entrance hall. Adorned with intricate carved banisters and towering windows that flood the space with natural light, this staircase sets the tone for the grandeur that awaits within. Elsewhere, hidden nooks and crannies beg to be explored, from the subterranean Georgian kitchen to the ornamental Fountain Court and glass-walled Orangery.
Culzean’s dramatic coastal setting is an integral part of its allure. Perched atop sheer cliffs, the castle commands sweeping views of the Firth of Clyde and the distant peaks of the Kintyre Peninsula. Guests can wander the expansive country park, discovering secluded pathways, rocky coves, and even the remains of an 18th-century ice house.
Castle Accommodations
For those seeking the ultimate Scottish castle experience, Culzean offers exclusive overnight accommodations in the form of the Eisenhower Apartment. This private suite of six double bedrooms, located on the castle’s top floor, can accommodate up to 12 guests. Outfitted with period furnishings, plush bedding, and stunning views, the Eisenhower Apartment transports visitors back in time while providing modern comforts.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the castle’s young caretaker, who guides them through the narrow corridors and up the grand staircase to the Oval Balcony, where they can marvel at the castle’s interior opulence. Each bedroom, named after notable figures from Culzean’s history, offers its own unique charms – from the tartan throws and armchairs of the Kennedy Suite to the prestigious Eisenhower’s Suite, where the former U.S. President himself once slept.
In the evenings, guests can gather in the elegant Drawing Room for pre-dinner drinks, admiring the portraits of past Kennedy clan members that line the walls. Dinner is served in the grand State Dining Room, where they can savour a three-course meal of local specialities like haggis and fresh Scottish salmon, accompanied by fine wines.
Scottish Castle Experiences
Culzean Castle is not the only historic property in Scotland that offers overnight accommodations. Across the country, a growing number of castles and stately homes have been thoughtfully converted into luxury castle hotels, providing discerning travellers with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Scotland’s captivating past.
Luxury Castle Stays
At properties like Dalmunzie Castle in the Cairngorms or Inverlochy Castle near Fort William, guests can expect five-star amenities alongside the timeless ambience of a grand Scottish castle. Many of these castle hotels feature opulent guest rooms, fine dining restaurants, and a host of unique activities, from falconry demonstrations to whisky tastings.
Beyond the castles themselves, the surrounding landscapes often provide a wealth of opportunities for exploration. Guests might discover hidden glens and lochs, hike through ancient forests, or even spot local wildlife such as red deer and golden eagles.
Castles as Tourist Attractions
While some castles in Scotland offer overnight stays, many more serve as popular tourist attractions, welcoming visitors to explore their historic interiors and grounds. Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, is a prime example, drawing thousands of visitors each year to marvel at its Baronial architecture and beautifully manicured gardens.
Elsewhere, castles like Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle have become iconic symbols of Scotland, offering guided tours that bring their rich histories to life. Visitors may encounter costumed historical re-enactors, attend medieval banquets, or witness the firing of antique cannons on the castle ramparts.
Scottish Highlands and Countryside
Many of Scotland’s most impressive castles are situated within the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes, from the rugged Scottish Highlands to the serene island archipelagos. Culzean Castle’s coastal setting, for instance, offers guests a unique perspective on the power and beauty of the North Atlantic.
Natural Landscapes
Perched atop sheer cliffs, Culzean Castle commands sweeping vistas of the Firth of Clyde and the distant Kintyre Peninsula. Guests can wander the castle’s idyllic country park, discovering secluded pathways, rocky coves, and even the remains of an 18th-century ice house. Further inland, the Scottish Highlands are home to a wealth of castles, surrounded by soaring mountains, tranquil glens, and mysterious lochs.
Scottish Culture and Traditions
Staying in a Scottish castle also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the country’s rich cultural heritage. Many castle properties host Highland games, showcasing traditional sports and dance, or offer storytelling sessions that bring the castles’ ghostly legends to life. Culzean Castle, for instance, is rumoured to be haunted by the spirit of a former Marquess of Ailsa.
Travel Planning for Castle Visits
Booking a stay in a Scottish castle requires a bit of advance planning, but the rewards of this unique experience are well worth the effort. Prospective guests should research castle accommodations that align with their budget and desired level of luxury, while also considering the property’s location and range of on-site activities.
Castle Booking and Reservations
Many castle hotels and exclusive-use properties offer online booking systems, making it easy to secure a reservation. However, some castle stays may require direct inquiries or even a minimum number of nights, so it’s essential to review all the booking requirements. Guests should also be aware of any seasonal closures or special events that could impact the availability of their desired castle.
Budgeting for a Castle Stay
Prices for castle accommodations in Scotland can vary significantly, from £250 to £400 per night for a double room at a luxury property to more affordable £7.85 per night for a campsite on castle grounds. When planning a castle stay, travellers should factor in not only the room rate but also the cost of meals, activities, and any additional services or amenities. Researching packages and deals can help stretch the budget further.
Whether you seek the grandeur of a historic Scottish castle, the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside, or the opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage, a stay at Culzean Castle or one of Scotland’s other magnificent castle properties promises to be a truly unforgettable experience. Discover the magic of sleeping in a Scottish castle and let the stories of the past come alive around you.