Dundee City, Scotland
64 Claypotts Rd, Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1LH
Telephone 01241 878756
A distinctive twin-towered tower house on the edge of Dundee, its interior open free to the public on just four days a year and viewable from outside the rest of the time. Reviewers who've caught an open day rate its unpolished, no-frills character above some of the more manicured castles further north.
The twin-tower design — a genuinely distinctive silhouette that reviewers say stands out even among Scotland's many tower houses, whether you catch it open or not.
The interior is only accessible on four specific dates each year, so check Historic Environment Scotland's calendar well in advance if seeing inside matters — the rest of the time this is an exterior-only stop, which still takes in a small garden by the front lawn.
Reviewers consistently admire Claypotts Castle's distinctive twin-tower design and 16th-century character, and several note that entry is free but only available on a handful of open days each year, so timing a visit matters. Those who got inside praise the raw, unrestored feel of the rooms and friendly, knowledgeable volunteer staff, while the exterior and small garden remain viewable at any time even when closed.
Interior open free on four dates yearly; exterior year-round
“Great to visit here today. Was telling the wains all the history of the castle including how the likes of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce won the WWE Tag Team World Championship here in 1314. Highly recommend for a…”— Abbey Wallace, visitor review