Rosyth Castle

📌 Rosyth, Fife
★★

Only in Scotland could a former international ferry terminal and naval base have a castle hidden in the middle of it – which you can still visit! Of course, the 15th century ruin easily pre-dates the shipping activities here at Rosyth, originally on a tidal island in the Forth estuary (a bit like nearby Cramond Island today) before more recent land reclamation took place. The L-plan building is a substantial one, with the block of the tower house intact to roof height as well as the walls of other ranges. A coat of arms can also still be made out above one of the doorways. The castle now shares the a space with a roundabout in the midst of industry, immediately before restricted access areas staffed by security guards. On our previous visits they’ve been happy to let us explore the castle – but ask for permission before you walk around.