Bavelaw Castle

Bavelaw Castle is a three-story tower house with an L-shaped plan and a circular tower at the northeastern corner. The walls of rough stone show the typical building style of Scottish tower houses from that era.

The Dundas family built the core structure in the 16th century before it later passed to the Forresters of Niddry and then to the Mowbrays of Barnbougle. These transfers reflect changing power among Scottish noble families.

The northern first-floor room called Queen Mary's Room recalls the visit of Mary, Queen of Scots and James VI. The spaces show how Scottish nobility of the 16th century lived and moved through their homes.

The castle sits north of Hare Hill in the Pentland Hills, about four miles west of Penicuik and two miles south of Balerno. Its location in a hilly region means visitors should expect uneven ground and changeable weather.

Architect Sir Robert Lorimer carried out an extensive restoration in 1900, connecting former outbuildings to the main structure. His work also brought larger windows and a new distinctive turret that fundamentally changed the castle's appearance.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

GPS coordinates: 55.85102,-3.33143

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:04