Burleigh Castle

 

Explore the Historic Beauty of Burleigh Castle!

 

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Perth and Kinross, Scotland, Burleigh Castle is a fascinating medieval tower house with a rich history dating back over 500 years. Though now a ruin, its remains tell the story of power, politics, and survival through Scotland’s turbulent past.

 

📍 Location

Burleigh Castle is located near Milnathort, just a few miles north of Kinross. Its tranquil setting makes it a perfect stop for history lovers exploring central Scotland.

📜 History & Inhabitants

The castle was originally built in the 15th century by the Balfour family, who played a significant role in Scottish politics. The Balfours were staunch supporters of the Scottish Reformation and allies of John Knox, the fiery Protestant reformer.

16th Century: The castle was expanded with a curtain wall and corner tower, turning it into a more formidable residence.

17th Century: The Balfours were elevated to the peerage as Lords Burleigh in 1607, cementing their status among Scotland’s nobility.

18th Century & Beyond: The castle fell into decline, and by the 1800s, it was largely abandoned. However, its legacy endured through the Balfour family’s political influence.

 

⚔️ Significance in Scottish & English History

Burleigh Castle may not have seen major battles, but its owners were deeply involved in Scotland’s religious and political struggles:

The Balfours supported Protestant reforms, influencing Scotland’s break from Catholic authority.

They were key players in the Union of the Crowns (1603), when James VI of Scotland also became James I of England.

Later descendants were involved in the Jacobite uprisings, though the castle itself avoided destruction.

 

🏰 Visiting Burleigh Castle

Today, the castle is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and is free to visit year-round! While the interior is not accessible, the ruins are open for exploration, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past.

📍 Opening Times:

Open daily (no fixed hours—access is unrestricted).

Best visited during daylight hours.

Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just looking for a peaceful stroll through Scotland’s past, Burleigh Castle is a hidden gem worth discovering!

 

Have you visited? Share your photos and thoughts below! 👇

 

For more of the Castles of Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/burleigh-castle/

 

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1NTTk4vGyDXVvUWaZkYuTE6X1IA9p8A8&usp=sharing

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300 #ScottishHistory #KilmoryCastle #ArgyllAndBute #ScottishHistory #CastleCampbell #ScottishHistory #BurleighCastle #ScottishHistory #CastlesOfScotland #ExploreScotland #HistoricScotland #PerthAndKinross