Castle Campbell

About

Castle Campbell is a medieval fortress perched above the town of Dollar in Clackmannanshire, north of the Ochil Hills. Originally known as Castle Gloom, the 15th‑century tower house and surrounding courtyards were the seat of the powerful Earls and Dukes of Argyll from the 15th to the 19th century. The castle was visited by Mary, Queen of Scots, and John Knox, and it played a role in several Scottish conflicts, including the Jacobite rising of 1715. Today the site is managed by Historic Environment Scotland as a scheduled monument and is open to visitors daily from 10 am until 4 pm (last entry at 4 pm) with a lunch break from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm during the peak season (April to September). The castle is closed from the first of October until the end of March. Visitors can explore the well‑preserved tower, loggia, east and south ranges, and the surrounding gardens. The grounds also host regular educational programs, free admission for members, and an Explorer Pass that offers access to 14 consecutive days of historic sites across Scotland. The site welcomes all ages, with guided tours and learning visits available through Historic Environment Scotland’s free learning network. The peaceful setting in the Green Tourists Gold award‑winning area makes Castle Campbell a perfect stop for history enthusiasts and families alike.