Barcaldine Castle - near Oban, Argyll, Scotland

Voted No.1 Haunted B&B By TripAdvisor

(Public Survey Held in October 2013)

Set on the peaceful shores of Loch Creran on the West Coast of Scotland, Barcaldine Castle is the only ancient castle in Argyll, making it truly a unique place to stay. Whilst it’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic break in the countryside, this bed and breakfast is also perfect for ghost hunters eager to catch a glimpse of the ghost of Donald Campbell, the Laird of Barcaldine, who was brutally murdered inside the castle in the 1600s, during the Massacre of Glencoe. He was killed by Stewart of Appin, his sworn enemy, who escaped shortly after in order to avoid punishment.

He fled to Inverawe, where he found shelter in the house of Duncan Campbell, the brother of Donald, who hadn’t yet heard about his brother’s death. The ghost of Donald Campbell consistently haunted his brother, chastising him for taking care of Donald’s murderer. Of course, this made no sense to Duncan, since he didn’t know his brother was dead. But by the time Duncan did hear about the demise of Donald, it was too late – Steward of Appin had fled once again.

Donald’s ghost was said to return to Barcaldine Castle out of pure frustration and is recorded to have been sighted by various visitors staying there.

“The occurrences that have been reported by many guests usually are centred around ‘Caithness’ room. A high number of guests have commented that they wake up in the night and feel like there is pressure being exerted on their back or legs, as though someone is sitting on them! It only seems to occur at one side of the bed. Other guests have seen strange lights moving round the room in the night, with no obvious explanation.

Sensitive guests often claim that they feel a presence in the Great Hall. Some believe that there is someone sitting in the large black chair in the corner. Photographs sometimes display unexplained blueish outlines.”

– Owner

Brief History

Barcaldine Castle (often referred to as the Black Castle) has a rich and bloody history. Built by Sir Duncan Campbell between 1601 and 1609, the castle played an important role in the 1692 event known as the Massacre of Glencoe.

The castle fell into complete despair by the end of the 19^th century, when it became the main house of the Barcaldine family and was then restored between 1897 and 1911 by Sir Duncan Campbell, before it became the bed and breakfast guesthouse that it is today.

About

Barcaldine Castle is the only ancient castle in Argyll, ideally located on the shores of Loch Creran with unparalleled views of the snow-capped mountains of Glencoe in the distance. Being surrounded by the stunning Scottish countryside, there are plenty of walking, cycling and sight-seeing opportunities available in the local area, perfect for those who want to get back to nature.

There are six different guestrooms to choose from, each of which is uniquely decorated and has its own strong character. All the rooms come with the luxury facilities that you’d expect from such a grand castle, including king-size beds with top quality linen, bathrobes, slippers, high-end toiletries, HDTV and high-speed WiFi access.

Breakfast is served each morning, and although there are no onsite options for lunch or dinner, there is a wealth of dining opportunities available just a short walk or drive away from the castle, guaranteed to satisfy all foodie cravings.

Features

Car park
WiFi access
Meeting facilities
Video/Blu-ray/DVD player
DVD library
Tea and coffee making facilities
Hairdryer
Doctor on call
Breakfast to go

Things to Do

Barcaldine Castle is ideally located for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Here you can try your hand at sea kayaking, embark on a seafari, relax with a round of golf at the Glencruitten Golf Course or take the kids to see some aquatic animals at the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary.

There are also at least eight walking and cycling trails found in the local area, in addition to the Dunstaffnage Castle and Dunollie Castle & 1745.