Cleish Castle

Cleish Castle is a stone tower house standing on elevated ground, featuring rectangular windows and combining architectural elements from the 16th and 19th centuries. The structure shows typical features of a Scottish residential tower with later additions that shape its current appearance.

The Colville family built this fortress in 1537 when Robert Colville received the barony from his father Sir James Colville. During the 1800s, the deteriorating structure underwent significant renovation and gained its distinctive Scottish character.

The castle grounds hold a special place in Scotland's record of designed landscapes, showing how people today value and protect historic estates. Walking around the property reveals the care taken to maintain its character as a significant site.

The building sits roughly 5 miles (8 kilometers) southwest of Kinross and operates as a private home today. Visitors should arrange permission in advance and ask about access times, since entry is restricted.

John Lessels oversaw the restoration of the derelict building in 1840 and transformed it into Scottish baronial style. This revival saved the structure and dramatically changed its outer appearance and character.

Location: Fife

GPS coordinates: 56.16550,-3.47920

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:26