Strome Castle
Dramatic 15th-century tower house ruins on a rocky headland at the head of Loch Carron, with sweeping views to Skye and a history of clan warfare and royal intrigue.
Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory at the head of Loch Carron, Strome Castle is a haunting ruin with sweeping views across the water to the Isle of Skye. Built in the 15th century by the MacDonalds of Glengarry, this once strategic stronghold changed hands many times before being blown up by the Mackenzies in 1602. Today, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, its crumbling walls and courtyard offer a powerful sense of Highland history, clan rivalry, and the raw beauty of the West Coast. Access is via a short walk over rough ground, rewarding visitors with solitude, sea air, and a vivid glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.
A brief summary to Strome Castle
- Strathcarron, IV54 8YJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as the path to the castle is rough, uneven and can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Visit on a clear day to enjoy the best views across Loch Carron to the Isle of Skye and the surrounding mountains.
- Bring a warm layer and a windproof jacket; the headland is fully exposed to sea winds and can feel much colder than nearby sheltered spots.
- Combine your visit with a stop in Lochcarron village for food, drink and information about the area’s history and walking routes.
- Check the tide and weather conditions before setting out, as the coastal path can become slippery and the sea views are dramatically affected by cloud and light.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
From Lochcarron village, follow the A890 south along the north shore of Loch Carron for about 5.5 km. Park carefully in the small lay-by near the headland and walk the short distance along the rough track to the castle ruins. Parking is informal and can be limited in busy periods.
-
Public Transport
Take a bus to Lochcarron village on the A890 route, then walk approximately 30–40 minutes along the A890 and the coastal path to the castle. The final section is on a rough, unpaved track with some uneven ground and a small slope down to the headland.
-
Walking
From Lochcarron village, walk south along the A890 for about 5.5 km, then follow the rough coastal track to the headland. The path is uneven and can be muddy; allow 45–60 minutes each way depending on pace and conditions.
-
Cycling
Cycle along the A890 from Lochcarron village, then continue on the rough coastal track to the headland. The final section is not paved and can be challenging on a road bike; a hybrid or mountain bike is recommended.
Strome Castle location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Strome Castle
A Fortress on the Edge of the Sea
Strome Castle clings to a narrow, rocky headland where Loch Carron meets Loch Kishorn, its ruins silhouetted against the ever-changing sky of the West Highlands. Originally built as a tower house in the mid-15th century, it was constructed to dominate the Strome Narrows, a key sea passage, and to control the ancient ferry crossing that once linked the north and south shores. Its position is both commanding and exposed, surrounded on three sides by steep drops to the water, making it a natural stronghold for whoever held sway over this stretch of coast. The castle’s layout centred on a square tower within a courtyard, a classic Highland tower house design that combined domestic comfort with defensive strength.Clan Rivalries and Royal Grants
The castle’s history is a microcosm of Highland power struggles. Initially associated with the Lords of the Isles and the MacDonalds of Lochalsh, it later passed to the MacDonalds of Glengarry, who held it as a key outpost in their contested lands. Over the 16th century, it became a pawn in the wider conflict between the MacDonalds and the rising power of the Mackenzies of Kintail. Royal intervention only added to the complexity: King James V granted Strome to the MacDonells of Glengarry in 1539, and later it was briefly held by the Earl of Huntly, reflecting how central Highland castles were to crown policy in the region. For over sixty years, the MacDonells fought to retain Strome against repeated Mackenzie pressure, turning it into a symbol of Glengarry authority on the coast.The Fall and Destruction of Strome
The castle’s end came in 1602, after a prolonged siege by Kenneth Mackenzie, Lord of Kintail. According to tradition, the garrison’s fate was sealed by a moment of domestic chaos: women drawing water from the castle well accidentally poured it into the barrel of gunpowder instead of the water barrel. The resulting argument was overheard by a Mackenzie prisoner, who escaped and carried the news that the castle’s defences were now useless. Faced with this vulnerability, the MacDonell garrison negotiated safe passage and left. Rather than occupy the castle themselves, the Mackenzies chose to destroy it, blowing up the tower with gunpowder. This act was not just military but symbolic: by reducing Strome to ruins, they broke the MacDonalds’ hold on this strategic point and ensured it could never again serve as a rival stronghold.Life Among the Ruins Today
Today, Strome Castle is a quiet, windswept site in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. What remains is a courtyard and the lower courses of the tower, its walls weathered by centuries of Atlantic gales. The atmosphere is one of poignant abandonment, where sheep often graze among the stones and the only sounds are the lapping of waves and the cries of seabirds. An information board helps visitors imagine the castle’s original form, and the views across Loch Carron to the Cuillin of Skye are truly spectacular. There are no modern buildings or facilities at the site itself, so a visit feels like stepping into a forgotten corner of Highland history, far from the bustle of modern life.Visiting the Ruins
The castle is reached via a short walk from the roadside, along a rough track that can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. The path is not paved, and the final approach involves some uneven ground and a small slope down to the headland. There are no toilets or refreshments at the site, so visitors should come prepared with sturdy footwear, warm clothing, and perhaps a flask and snack. The best times to visit are on clear days when the views to Skye are at their most dramatic, or in the softer light of early morning and late afternoon when the ruins are bathed in golden or silvery light. Because of its exposed position, the weather can change quickly, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are part of the experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eilean Donan Castle
9.8 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
15.1 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
42.8 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Old Ruins
56.0 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Iron age broch
56.8 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Bridge of Oich
57.0 km
Victorian engineering marvel: a rare surviving taper-principle suspension bridge from 1854.
Fort Augustus Lighthouse
58.0 km
Discover the charming Pepperpot Lighthouse, a tiny historic beacon marking the entrance to the Caledonian Canal at Loch Ness in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Dun Osdale
62.8 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Nessieland
64.6 km
Explore the enchanting Nessieland, where the legend of the Loch Ness Monster comes to life amidst breathtaking Highland scenery.
Official end of the West Highland Way
66.0 km
Celebrate the end of Scotland’s iconic West Highland Way in Fort William, where rugged mountains meet vibrant Highland culture.
Tioram Castle
66.0 km
A hauntingly beautiful ruined castle on a tidal island in Loch Moidart, once the seat of Clanranald and the Lords of the Isles.
Clach an Tiompain
66.2 km
Explore Clach an Tiompain, a historic stone landmark in Strathpeffer, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Scotland's ancient past amidst stunning landscapes.
Eagle Stone Path
66.3 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
Castle Leod
66.6 km
Explore Castle Leod, a stunning Scottish castle in Strathpeffer, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Urquhart Castle
67.0 km
Explore the historic Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, a captivating blend of Scottish heritage and stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Attadale Gardens
7.0 km
Explore 20 acres of Victorian charm, rare plants, and hidden sculptures with breathtaking views of Loch Carron and Skye.
Highland cow tours
8.8 km
Discover the charm of Scotland’s iconic Highland cows up close in a serene crofting landscape near Kyle of Lochalsh.
Caisteal Maol
13.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Caisteal Maol, a Norse-linked 15th-century castle commanding the Kyleakin strait on the Isle of Skye.
Teko (the otter)sculpture by Laurence Broderick
13.9 km
A charming bronze otter sculpture by Laurence Broderick celebrating Skye’s wildlife heritage in the tranquil village of Kyleakin.
Otter Hide
16.1 km
Discover peaceful coastal wildlife watching at Otter Hide, a serene spot to glimpse otters and seals on the Isle of Skye’s rugged shore.
Falls of Glomach
18.4 km
Discover the remote Falls of Glomach, one of Britain’s highest waterfalls, accessible only by a challenging and scenic Highland hike.
Leitir Fura
23.5 km
A tranquil woodland walk through Skye's hidden forest, where nature has reclaimed a lost Highland settlement.
Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn
27.0 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn, a timeless stone tomb nestled in the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
Loch Cill Chriosd
28.9 km
A tranquil freshwater loch cradled in Skye's sacred valley, where golden reeds meet dramatic mountains.
View point LOCH AINORT
30.2 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Ben Na Cro
31.3 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
Torrin Pools
32.1 km
Discover the serene Torrin Pools, a tranquil wild swimming spot with stunning waterfalls and mountain views on the Isle of Skye.
Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
32.6 km
Explore Scotland’s first National Nature Reserve, where ancient pinewoods meet soaring eagles and rugged mountain peaks in breathtaking wilderness.
Dun Ringill
35.1 km
Explore Dun Ringill, an ancient Iron Age broch and medieval clan seat perched on Skye’s rugged coastline with stunning sea views and rich history.
Dunscaith Castle
35.4 km
Explore the legendary Fortress of Shadows, Dunscaith Castle, where myth and medieval history meet on the wild Isle of Skye coast.
Essential places to dine
Lochcarron Bistro - Restaurant & Gift Shop
6.0 km
Intimate Scottish Highlands bistro with seasonal menus, local flavors, and scenic loch views, plus a charming gift shop.
The Clachan
9.2 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with traditional Scottish fare, local ales, and lively music in the heart of Dornie village.
Castle Moil Restaurant
14.1 km
Waterside Scottish dining with fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and views of the iconic Skye Bridge.
The Legend of Saucy Mary Restaurant
14.2 km
Charming British dining with panoramic Skye Bridge views in Kyleakin’s historic heart, blending local flavors and cozy ambiance.
Taste of India, Kyleakin
15.1 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in the scenic village of Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye.
Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen
19.0 km
Coastal dining with fresh Highland seafood and stunning Loch Torridon views in the heart of Shieldaig.
Red Skye Restaurant
21.9 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy, rustic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
24.3 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Claymore Restaurant
24.4 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
The Shellfish Shack
24.4 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
25.1 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
Gille Brighde Restaurant
25.3 km
Remote Highland dining with fresh local seafood, stunning loch views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a charming old schoolhouse setting.
Restaurant at the Duisdale
27.0 km
Elegant dining on Skye’s southeast coast offering fresh local fare with stunning Sound of Sleat views in a nautical-chic setting.
The Gorse Bush
31.0 km
Cozy bistro in Kinlochewe’s Old Village Hall, serving comforting dishes with friendly service amid scenic Highland surroundings.
Cluanie Bar & Kitchen
31.8 km
Savor hearty mountain-inspired dishes and vintage cocktails in a lively Highland inn surrounded by stunning Glenmoriston scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Kraft Kabin Skye
21.6 km
Discover the creativity of local artisans at The Kraft Kabin Skye, a charming craft shop in Breakish offering unique handmade treasures.
Skye Smithy
23.9 km
Discover authentic local craftsmanship and unique gifts at Skye Smithy, a charming artisan shop nestled in the tranquil beauty of the Isle of Skye.
Nook & Cranny
24.8 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local artistry at Nook & Cranny, Broadford’s cozy gift shop on the Isle of Skye.
The Treasure Hut
24.8 km
Discover unique gemstones, fossils, and handcrafted treasures at The Treasure Hut in Broadford Market Square, Isle of Skye’s premier gift shop.
The Skye Gift Company
24.8 km
A charming independent gift shop in Broadford, showcasing the best of Skye’s crafts, food and souvenirs in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Skye Antiques
24.8 km
Explore timeless antiques and local heritage treasures in the cozy charm of Skye Antiques, Broadford’s beloved collectible shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
24.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Buzy Vee
25.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
Floraidh Skye
27.9 km
Discover exquisite Scottish textiles and local crafts in a charming pier-side boutique on the scenic Isle of Skye.
scottishquality.com
27.9 km
Explore the enchanting Isle of Skye gift shop, where local crafts and unique treasures await to tell the story of Scotland's rich heritage.
Isle of Skye Leather Co.
38.5 km
Discover exquisite handmade Scottish leather goods crafted with centuries-old tradition on the Isle of Skye.
Cuillin Crafts
38.6 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
38.6 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Tippecanoe
38.6 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
ÒR
38.6 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
6.4 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
The King Haakon Bar
14.1 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Nanny's
18.8 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Beinn Bar
18.9 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Gabbro Bar
25.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Am Praban
27.9 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
38.3 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
38.5 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
Merchant Bar
38.6 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
38.6 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
West Highlands Bar
38.7 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The Isles Inn
38.8 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
The Badachro Inn
39.0 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
39.4 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
48.3 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
39.8 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Roobarb
66.0 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
The Ross Shire Club
72.3 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Private Eyes Inverness
80.7 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Exchange
80.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Exchange, a charming pub in the heart of Inverness with a vibrant atmosphere and local brews.
The Tooth & Claw
80.9 km
Experience the vibrant live music scene at The Tooth & Claw, a premier bar in Inverness, where great drinks meet unforgettable performances.
The Imperial
80.9 km
Discover The Imperial, a lively sports bar in Inverness offering cocktails, pub fare, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for game days.
Auld Mull Bar
87.3 km
Experience the warmth of Auld Mull Bar in Tobermory - a perfect blend of local drinks, cuisine, and stunning harbor views on the Isle of Mull.
Mishnish
87.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Mishnish, the heart of Tobermory's bar and restaurant scene, perfect for music lovers and foodies alike.
MacDonald Arms Hotel
87.6 km
Discover the warm hospitality and local flavors at MacDonald Arms Hotel, a charming pub in Tobermory, Isle of Mull.
Macgochans
87.8 km
Experience the essence of Tobermory at Macgochans, where delightful seafood meets vibrant Scottish hospitality in a stunning waterfront setting.
Number 5
90.8 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Bellachroy Hotel
93.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm, cozy hotel comfort, and delightful dining at Bellachroy Hotel on the Isle of Mull.
Hotel Hebrides
95.2 km
Discover the beauty of the Isle of Harris while enjoying the warm hospitality and comfort of Hotel Hebrides, your perfect getaway.
Isle of Harris Distillery
95.4 km
Experience the essence of Scotland at the Isle of Harris Distillery—where tradition meets breathtaking landscapes and exquisite spirits.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
