Strome Castle

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Visiting Strome Castle

All that remains of Strome Castle today are a square tower and ruined castle walls that enclose a courtyard. Despite this, it is still easy to imagine the original Strome Castle stronghold in its strategic position over the ocean.

Parking

Parking is free but very limited. Many visitors park along the narrow road leading up to the castle ruins, but you can also park in Strome and then take a 5-minute walk to the ruins. 

However, it is unlikely that there will be other visitors there at the same time as you, so parking next to the castle should always be possible. 

Price

Visiting Strome Castle is free of charge. There is a small, optional donation box at the entrance, and the money is given to the National Trust for Scotland, who are responsible for its upkeep.

 

Opening

The area is not fenced or gated and is accessible at any time of the day

Location and Access

Strome Castle is located in Stromemore on Loch Carron’s shore and the Scottish Highlands west coast. It is 3.5 miles from Lochcarron village, about 3 miles from Plockton, and only a mile away from secluded Achmore. The castle is easily accessible from Lochcarron via the A896, where there are clear signposts to the ruins.

Know Before You Go

  • The castle ruins’ area can often be windy and cold as it is in a very exposed location and right on the water. It is recommended to bring a waterproof jacket and shoes, and other warm clothing to have a comfortable visit. 
  • If you are visiting with children (especially younger kids), they should be supervised at all times as there are many steep and unexpected drops. 
  • Remember to bring your camera as there will be plenty of picturesque photo opportunities! Visitors love taking pictures of themselves framed by the ruined walls with the water in the background. 
  • There are no facilities at Strome Castle, so remember to bring water, food, and other necessities. 
  • The premises are unstaffed. Upon entering the premises, there is an informative sign with details about its history and how it was destroyed. 

 

Places To Stay Nearby

There is no accommodation in Strome Castle’s immediate vicinity. The closest establishments are in Plockton (3 miles away), Lochcarron (4 miles away), and the remote Achmore, which is only about a mile from the ruins.

Duncraig Castle Bed and Breakfast

Duncraig Castle Bed and Breakfast in Plockton offers spectacular lake views and a private beach. The cost per night is around £350 for a room, including breakfast. 

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Rockvilla Guest House in Lochcarron

Rockvilla Guest House in Lochcarron is across the road from the beach, and free parking is included in the nightly rate of about £115 per room. 

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Achmore Self Catering

If you want to be as close as possible to the castle ruins, Achmore Self Catering is your best choice. Strome Castle is only just over a mile away, and there is a restaurant on the premises. Their rates are generally around £300 per night, depending on the season. 

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History of Strome Castle

Strikingly visible on a rocky outcrop on Loch Carron, Strome Castle offers exquisite views of the Isle of Skye. The original castle was built in the 14th century and was destroyed by the MacKenzie family in the 1600s. 

Time Line

 

-The Early 1400s (Castle Built)

Strome Castle is built by the Earldom of Ross, who owned much of the surrounding land. The castle is built to control incoming water vessels and to have a vantage point for the water below. 

-1472

Clan MacDonald of Lochlash and Alan MacDonald Dubh, the Chief of the Clan Cameron, take ownership of the castle. 

-1539

King James V gives Strome Castle to Hector Munro and Clan MacDonell of Glengarry. 

-1546

Queen Mary grants Strome Castle to the Earl of Huntly. 

-1602 (Castle Destroyed)

Kenneth MacKenzie and his allies (Clan Matheson) seize control of the castle. With the MacDonalds still fighting for their castle, they are taken as prisoners on the premises. 

A group of women who have just collected water from the well accidentally pour it into the bucket containing gunpowder. When the MacDonalds discover this error, commotion ensues. 

One of the MacKenzie prisoners takes advantage of the chaos and manages to escape during and alert the rest of his clan. 

The MacKenzies launch an attack and the MacDonalds surrender. Instead of occupying the castle once again, the MacKenzies blew the castle to ruins. 

-1939

Strome Castle is handed over to National Trust for Scotland, which is now responsible for its upkeep. 

Strome Castle Occupants

Over the centuries, Strome Castle has been occupied by various powerful clans.

The first occupants were the Earldom of Ross, who was the most powerful clan in the area at the time. 

The following Strome Castle residents were the MacDonalds, followed by Hector Munro and Clan MacDonell of Glengarry. 

The Earl of Huntly followed, and the last residents were the MacKenzies, after which the castle was destroyed. 

Images of  Strome Castle

Strome Castle Strome Castle Strome Castle Strome Castle
Strome Castle Strome Castle Strome Castle

Images Supplied and licensed from Shutterstock Standard Licence Package

Strome Castle Facts

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Strome Castle was the source of many rivalries between the prevailing clans in the area. Owning Strome Castle was a sign of power and control of the surrounding area, and it even gained the attention of the kings and queens at the time! 

Strome Castle has been part of the National Trust for Scotland since 1939 and relies on donations to keep the remaining walls intact. 

A friendly, local black labrador retriever dog frequents this location and loves to accompany you on your walk to the ruins. 

Strome Castle Q&A

Where Is the Best Place To Park for Strome Castle?

Parking for Strome Castle is minimal, but there usually are very few visitors, so this should not be a problem. The most convenient parking is along the narrow road leading up to the ruins (be sure to park well off the road as the locals become annoyed when tourists block the road). Alternatively, you will find parking in Strome. 

What Facilities Are Available at Strome Castle?

Strome Castle is in a remote location and unfortunately does not offer toilet or refreshment facilities. Since the surrounding scenery is so beautiful, bringing a picnic lunch to eat on the small beach or lawn is a lovely idea. Should you need a shop or restaurant, you will find one in Lochcarron or Plockton. 

Location of Strome Castle

Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, Strome Castle sits above Loch Carron and faces the Isle of Skye to the west. 

The closest village is Plockton, which is three miles away. Lochcarron is also not too far, and is a four-mile drive away. 

The easiest way to reach the castle is by taking the A896 from Lochcarron, and then following the signage.

Other Places To Visit Near Strome Castle

Strome Castle is located in the Scottish Highlands, which, in itself, is a stunning place to explore in itself. The Highlands have rolling, green hills, fascinating lochs, and atmospheric quality that makes for an unforgettable trip. 

Visiting Strome Castle should only take you a couple of hours at most, and you might want to visit Lochcarron Church while in the area. The church is currently being restored and is located in the middle of a golf course. 

Plockton harbour surrounds a sea loch and is located in the pretty village of Plockton. Boat trips to see nearby seals can be taken from the harbour, but if you’d prefer to relax, why not have a cream tea at the Plockton Hotel? 

If you enjoy visiting historical ruins, Brochel Castle Ruins, Christ’s Church Ruins, and Brochel Castle Ruins can be reached within an hour by car. 

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