The castle’s layout was inspired by the 'concentric' military design popular in the 13th century, though it lacks an outer defensive wall.
The 1645 Battle of Inverlochy is widely considered one of the most brilliant tactical victories achieved by the Marquess of Montrose.
Unlike many Scottish fortresses built on crags, this castle was designed as a lowland stronghold relying on the surrounding marshy terrain and rivers for protection.
The Comyn family, the castle's builders, were once the most powerful noble family in Scotland before their political downfall in the 14th century.
The castle was never updated for artillery defense, which contributed to its obsolescence after the medieval period.
Archaeological surveys have confirmed that the site was once surrounded by a deep, water-filled moat fed by the nearby River Lochy.
Old Inverlochy Castle is a 13th-century quadrangular fortress located at the confluence of the River Lochy and the Linnhe Loch. Constructed around 1270 by the Comyn family, it served as a primary defensive site during the Scottish Wars of Independence. The site consists of a curtain wall with three surviving circular corner towers and a larger keep, or donjon. It was the site of two major battles, the first in 1431 and the second in 1645, where the Marquess of Montrose defeated the Covenanters. The ruin is managed by Historic Environment Scotland. The castle is situated on flat, low-lying ground, which influenced its design as a water-defended fortification. The internal courtyard remains accessible, allowing visitors to inspect the masonry details and structural layout. It is distinct for its lack of modern reconstruction, retaining its original medieval footprint.
From the river bank looking across the water toward the keep to frame the reflection of the towers.
Wear waterproof footwear, as the ground inside the ruins can be muddy and uneven.
Combine your visit with a walk along the banks of the River Lochy for views of Ben Nevis.
The site is compact and lacks facilities, so plan for a self-guided exploration.
Assuming it is the same as the luxury Inverlochy Castle Hotel; they are different properties located nearby.
Open year-round, but can be inaccessible during periods of extreme flooding from the River Lochy.
Do not climb on the walls or loose masonry; the site is a protected monument.
