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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Lothian Scotland > Blackness Castle

Blackness Castle

Known as “the ship that never sailed,” this 15th-century fortress is built on a rocky point sticking out into the River Forth. It is in Blackness, West Lothian, postcode EH49 7NH.

What to Expect and Enjoy
The castle is built in a long, thin shape that looks exactly like a giant stone boat pointed toward the sea.

  • The Stern and Bow: You can walk along the narrow “decks” of the castle. The views of the Forth Bridges from the “pier” at the back are incredible.
  • Film Location: If the castle looks familiar, it’s because it has been used in many films and TV shows, most famously as “Fort William” in Outlander.
  • The Rocks: The courtyard inside is actually the natural bedrock of the coast. It’s very uneven and bumpy, which adds to the feeling that you are on a rugged, medieval site.
  • The Towers: You can climb the central tower for a great view of the whole “ship” layout below you.

Best For and Time Spent
Great for families and teens who like “rough and ready” castles with lots of stairs and narrow passages. It’s also a top spot for photography enthusiasts.

  • Duration: You’ll likely spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the castle.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes! The rocky floor of the courtyard is very uneven and can be slippery.
  • Accessibility: Because of the natural rock floor and narrow spiral stairs, this castle is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
  • Parking: There is a small free car park at the entrance. It can fill up quickly on sunny weekends.
  • Refreshments: There is a tiny shop on-site for snacks and drinks, but the nearby Blackness Lobster Pot in the village is a great local spot for a proper meal.

More Places Nearby

Almond Valley Heritage Centre Arthur’s Seat Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Dalkeith Country Park Dalmeny House Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dynamic Earth East Links Family Park Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Ghost Tours Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) Edinburgh Zoo Five Sisters Zoo Fountain Park Foxlake Adventures Glenkinchie Distillery Hopetoun House House of the Binns Inveresk Lodge Garden Jupiter Artland Linlithgow Palace Lost Shore Surf Resort Malleny Garden Midlothian Snowsports Centre Murrayfield Stadium Tour Musselburgh Racecourse National Museum of Flight National Museum of Scotland Newhailes House North Berwick Harbour Rosslyn Chapel Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Scottish National Gallery Scottish National Portrait Gallery Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre Tantallon Castle The Edinburgh Dungeon The Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Mile The Royal Yacht Britannia The Scottish Seabird Centre
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