Huntingtower Castle: The Storied Twin Towers of Perthshire

Medieval Origins and Architectural Uniqueness

Huntingtower Castle is distinguished by its unusual composition of two tower houses built just three metres apart, originally separate structures connected by a wooden bridge. The eastern tower, dating from around 1460, is a classic medieval Scottish tower house with a hall, private chambers, and service rooms arranged over several floors. The western tower, slightly younger and L-shaped, was connected to the eastern tower by a three-storey range in the late 17th century, transforming the castle into a more unified mansion-like residence. Visitors can still see the gap between the towers and the architectural evolution that reflects defensive needs and domestic comfort.

Historic Drama of the Ruthven Family

The castle was the ancestral home of the Ruthven family, influential nobles from the 12th century until their downfall in 1600. It was originally known as the Place of Ruthven. The site is most famous for the 1582 'Ruthven Raid,' when the 1st Earl of Gowrie held the young King James VI captive here for ten months in a political coup. Although the king initially forgave the Ruthvens, a later alleged plot known as the 'Gowrie Conspiracy' led to the execution of the 3rd Earl and his brother, the forfeiture of their estates, and the renaming of the castle to Huntingtower. The dramatic history of intrigue, betrayal, and royal power struggles permeates the castle’s atmosphere.

Artistic Treasures and Legends

Inside the eastern tower’s first-floor hall, visitors can admire one of Scotland’s oldest surviving painted ceilings, dating from the 1540s, featuring intricate designs and motifs. The castle also holds fragments of medieval wall frescoes and heraldic decorations. Local folklore enriches the visit, including the legend of the 'lovers leap'—a daring leap across the rooftop gap by the daughter of the 1st Earl to visit her secret lover. The castle is also said to be haunted by a friendly 'Green Lady' ghost, adding a mystical charm to the ruins.

Visitor Experience and Setting

Today, Huntingtower Castle is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and welcomes visitors from April to September daily, with shorter winter opening hours. The castle’s grounds are well-maintained, featuring picnic areas and herbaceous borders with scented bushes. The visitor centre offers step-free access, though the towers themselves require climbing narrow stone staircases. From the rooftop battlements, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Perthshire landscape, connecting the historic site to its natural surroundings.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Huntingtower Castle stands as a tangible link to Scotland’s turbulent past, illustrating the rise and fall of noble families and the complex relationship between monarchy and aristocracy. Its preservation allows visitors to step into the spaces where history unfolded—from royal captivity to Jacobite military leadership linked to the Murray family, who inherited the castle after the Ruthvens. The castle’s blend of architectural heritage, art, and folklore makes it a unique cultural landmark in Perthshire.

Access and Practical Information

Located approximately 5 km northwest of Perth, the castle is accessible by car and public transport. The visitor centre and grounds provide facilities including toilets and a shop. While the castle towers involve steep staircases unsuitable for some mobility needs, the grounds and picnic areas are accessible. Admission fees apply, with options for family passes and advance booking recommended. Huntingtower Castle offers a rich historical experience for families, history enthusiasts, and those intrigued by Scotland’s legends and architecture.