Castle Leod

Just 20 miles from the Kingsmills Hotel, near the village of Strathpeffer, sits the historic Castle Leod (pronounced “loud”). The original fort was built before the 12th century. However, the current structure mainly dates from around the 15th to 17th century. Granted to John of Killin, 10th Chief of Clan MacKenzie, after he fought at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, it stayed within the clan and is still the seat of Clan Mackenzie today. The castle is open to the public only on certain days of the year, usually over the summer months. But private tours may still be available for small groups by special arrangement. Check this year’s open days.

Castle Leod and Outlander

Fans of the romantic time travel book series, Outlander, will be more familiar with the name Castle Leoch. Even though Doune Castle in Perthshire represented it on screen for the TV series, Leod is widely regarded as the true inspiration behind the fictional Leoch. Since the connection with Outlander, this castle has become very popular. And although it is not always open to visitors, there are 25+ public open days set over the summer, when you can tour the castle and its grounds.

The Castle and grounds

Castle Leod is a grade-A listed building, which means it is protected by law. The Clan Mackenzie Charitable Trust looks after the castle, oversees its repairs and restorations, and encourages people to visit and learn about it. On public open days, there is currently access to the first and ground floors of the tower. The castle also has extensive parkland and woodland grounds. Within the grounds are some important trees, including a famous sweet chestnut tree planted in 1550 for Queen Mary of Guise, and two giant sequoias, the biggest of which is one of the largest trees in the world!

Find out more

For further information, see the Castle Leod website, where you’ll find details of public open days and private tours, ticket prices and contact details. Please check when the open days are held before visiting.

Explore more Scottish castles, historic sites and must-see attractions during your stay with us at the Kingmills Hotel in Inverness. Our Inverness guide has all the best things to see and do!