Visit Loch Leven Castle and Loch Leven Nature Reserve
A hidden gem Castle dating back to Mary Queen of Scots and famous wetland ecosystem area
Nestled in the heart of Perth and Kinross, just a short drive from Edinburgh, Loch Leven Castle and Loch Leven Nature Reserve offer a perfect blend of Scottish history and natural beauty. The 13th-century castle, located on an island in Loch Leven, is famous as the place where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567 before her dramatic escape. Visitors can take a scenic boat trip across the loch to explore the castle ruins and immerse themselves in Scotland’s rich royal heritage.
Surrounding the loch, the Loch Leven National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With stunning walking and cycling trails, including the Loch Leven Heritage Trail. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and spot a variety of birdlife, such as pink-footed geese and ospreys.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or looking for a peaceful escape near Edinburgh, Loch Leven offers a unique Scottish experience. Plan your visit today and uncover the secrets of this iconic Scottish landmark!
1. Loch Leven Castle
Tucked away on a little island on Loch Leven, not far from the Perthshire town of Kinross, is one of Scotland’s well known but hidden historic gems. A medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century, Loch Leven Castle is best known as the place where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567. During her captivity, Mary was forced to abdicate the throne before making a daring escape with the help of her supporters.
Architecturally, Loch Leven Castle features a five-story tower house, one of Scotland’s oldest surviving tower keeps. Built for defence and residence, it has thick stone walls, narrow windows, and upper-level living quarters with a curtain wall enclosing the courtyard. Additional buildings, including a hall and garrison quarters, supported the castle’s function as both a fortress and a royal prison.
Though now in ruins, the castle played a crucial role in Scottish history, serving as a stronghold during various conflicts, including the Wars of Scottish Independence.
To visit Loch Leven Castle, take a short boat trip from Kinross Pier and enjoy the treasures of Loch Leven Nature Reserve which attracts an abundance of wildlife, including swans, ospreys, and migrating geese.
2. Our Secret Hidden Gem – Loch Leven National Nature Reserve
Tucked away, off the main trunk road between Edinburgh and Perth, Loch Leven National Nature Reserve is one of my favourite places to stop and stretch the dogs legs in a beautiful and tranquil setting.
Whilst many visitors flock to Scotland’s other well-known nature spots, Loch Leven offers a peaceful retreat teeming with wildlife, scenic trails, and breathtaking views.
The vast freshwater loch is home to one of the country’s most important wetland ecosystems, providing sanctuary to thousands of migrating birds, including pink-footed geese, ospreys, and whooper swans.
Perfect for walking, cycling, and birdwatching, there is a 13 mile accessible trail looping around the Loch offering stunning panoramas of the loch and surrounding Lomond hills.
The well kept path winds through woodlands, wildflower meadows, with benches dotted along the trail, the perfect spot to stop and discover red squirrels, otters, and rare butterflies.
3. Loch Leven’s Larder
A firm favourite stop of mine when travelling to St.Andrews for a day out, Loch Leven’s Larder is a charming farm shop, café, deli and gift shop nestled on the shores of Loch Leven near the town of Kinross.
Loch Levens Larder deli and foodhall is packed full of interesting Scottish and fine foods from artisanal cheeses, a butcher shop and bakery, to a counter selling freshly made salads, an incredible array of chocolates, sauces and preserves, and a selection of fine wines, making it a must stop for all food lovers!!!
Known for its commitment to fresh, local produce, this family-run business offers more delicious food in its café serving homemade dishes, from hearty breakfasts to healthy soups, salads, quiches and sandwiches plus amazingly tasty cakes and desserts, all made using locally sourced ingredients.
As well as the beautiful cosy indoor seating area with incredible views down to the loch, you can also dine outside on the huge terrace where there are bookable glass pods for the colder days.
The larder boasts beautiful walking trails that meander through down to the loch side onto the Loch Leven trail, perfect for a post-meal stroll. .
4. Gin Laboratory – Kinross
5. Loch Leven Brewery
Following on a theme, the little town of Kinross also boasts the Loch Leven Distillery, a premium craft distillery known for its dedication to quality and innovation. This independent distillery produces a range of handcrafted spirits, including gin, vodka, and whisky, using the finest locally sourced ingredients.
The distillery offers guided tours where guests can learn about the distillation process, discover the unique botanicals and flavours used in their award-winning spirits, and even enjoy a tasting session. For those looking for a more hands-on experience, there are interactive gin and whisky workshops where participants can blend their own custom spirits.
Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast, a gin lover, or simply curious about the art of distillation, a visit to Loch Leven Brewery promises an unforgettable experience!
Top Tips when visiting Loch Leven
Top Tip 1: When taking the boat across to visit Loch Leven Castle, arrive early to avoid the busy lunch time and afternoon visitors and bring a picnic to enjoy on the island.
Top Tip 2: The Burleigh Sands area is a lesser-known, tranquil spot for a picnic or sunset views on Loch Levens Nature Trail.
Getting to Loch Leven
From Edinburgh
Cross the iconic Forth Road Bridge which overlooks the UNESCO world heritage Forth Rail Bridge and continue north along the M90.
Turn off at junction 6, taking the third exit at the roundabout towards Kinross, then at the next roundabout take the 2nd exit along Station Road. Follow this road until its end and take a right onto High Street. Drive along then take a left on Sandport. Follow this road round Sandport close to the ferry car park.
