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Inveraray Castle

Just returned from Scotland and must disagree with the Rick Steves guidebook assessment that Inveraray Castle is impressive from a distance but "dull" inside.

We found, first of all, that the gardens were spectacular -- I couldn't stop taking photos of the lovely colors and blooms. Then when we went inside we found all kinds of fascinating and beautiful artwork, furnishings, arms & armor, and architectural details. It is a modern castle, so if you are looking for medieval underpinnings you'll be disappointed, but if you have any interest in 19th- and 20th-century history you can't go wrong spending an afternoon there.

Our purpose in visiting Inveraray was to see Kilmartin Glen stone circles, which were great once we got the map for 1 pound at the museum by the church in the village of Kilmartin. In Inveraray we also were extremely happy with our accommodations and breakfasts at Brambles, and dinners at the George Hotel.

Posted by
244 posts

Thank you for the review. We are planning on visiting Inveraray Castle in September. Sounds like we will enjoy it. The Kilmartin Glen Stone Circles are also on our itinerary. Thanks for your insight!

Posted by
5678 posts

I enjoyed it too. For those thinking of going here's the link. I immediately remembered that "armory hall" even though it's been several years since I visited.

And yes, Kilmartin's Glen is wonderful. BTW don't miss hiking up to Dunadd. I was the only person there when I visited. And I surely put my foot in the foot print and looked out over the countryside. (It's an iron age fort that is thought to be where the Dalriada kings were crowned.

Posted by
931 posts

I second the suggestion to hike up to Dunadd, the day I was there I was almost the only person there, but a guy from New Zealand caught up to me at the top. Quite a view from up there. I did not do Inveraray Castle ( I think I had seen one too many castles by this time) , but spent some time at the jail instead. It was quite fun with actors playing the part of prisoners.