Scottish Castles Association

Around 40 members of the Scottish Castles Association assembled at the seaside town of Dunbar in September for two days of castle viewing in East Lothian arranged by member John Hunter.

On the Saturday we set out for Innerwick Castle, picturesquely situated on a red sandstone outcrop above a heavily wooded ravine, followed by Athelstaneford and Garleton Castles before a stop for lunch.

Post-lunch we visited Barnes Castle, high on its (muddy!) hill, followed by two superb castles for which John had obtained special permission for us to visit.

All aboard the bus, our Sunday began with Redhouse Castle and Pinkie House (with its magnificent painting ceiling). The latter is now a private school and not open to the public. Then it was lunch at the Carberry Tower Hotel which was a ‘win win’ being both castle and lunch venue!

Preston Tower and the magnificent 13th-century Dirleton Castle completed the tour which was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.

A full account of the visits will appear in the forthcoming members' Scottish Castles Association Journal but you can view a few pictures of the castles we visited below.

Want to join us for visits in spring 2018, when we will be based in Peebles, or come with us to Aberdeen in autumn 2018? You can – join the Scottish Castles Association online now! Click HERE.

Innerwick Castle

LEFT: Athelstaneford Castle RIGHT: Preston Tower

LEFT: Barnes Castle RIGHT: Redhouse Castle

Garleton Castle

LEFT: Pinkie House RIGHT: Carberry Tower Hotel

Dirleton Castle