Castles, Scotland is full of them and many are managed by Historic Scotland, one of our favourite organisations. One of the most romantic places is an Island and when you then discover a castle on it - it is simply a magical experience.
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Loch Leven Castle is a must when you visit Scotland, and if you live in Scotland then there is no excuse, just get on your bike, bus, train or car and get to Loch Leven. To get to the Island involves a short 10 minute boat journey on a Historic Scotland boat. It is easier to be a member of Historic Scotland and have a season ticket to all the great historical properties managed by them. We loved our trip to the castle on Loch Leven and have been told that well behaved dogs are allowed on the ferry boat and Island, so next time we are taking our dogs.
The journey across is enjoyable and you will often see herons flying overhead as well as ducks and other birds. Loch Leven is also well known as a trout loch and you can get a permit and hire a boat to fish the loch.
If the weather is windy it is advisable to wear warm and waterproof clothing as the water can often come over into the boat and you may get a little wet. On our trip the weather was warm and sunny.
You can easily spend several hours on the Island so it is worth while taking along a picnic. The Island has a Historic Scotland shop where you pay for your tickets, it also has some delicious chocolate! However it does not serve food, so take your own and really enjoy a day out on an Island with a castle, the kids will love it.
Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned in the castle and spent some of her time in the building shown above (top left of picture).
