Balvaird Castle, the 15th-century tower house in the Ochil Hills, will open for a short run of guided tours this summer — the first public access inside the site in more than a decade. The move follows the castle’s recent on-screen role in Outlander: Blood of My Blood, where it featured as Castle Leathers, ancestral seat of the 11th Lord Lovat, portrayed by Tony Curran.
Rare access to a noted Perthshire landmark
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has confirmed tours will operate on selected dates between 15 July and 22 August, with advance booking required due to limited places. The programme will allow visitors to explore interior spaces not usually open to the public and, weather permitting, step onto the roof walk for wide-ranging views over the surrounding countryside.
Built in 1495 and once home to the Murray family, Balvaird was regarded as one of the most advanced tower houses of its period. The structure’s preservation needs mean that access has typically been restricted to the exterior. This summer’s arrangements are designed to balance public interest with ongoing conservation.
What visitors can expect
Guides will lead small groups through key parts of the building, outlining the site’s development and what life would have been like during the 16th century. The route includes spiral staircases and stretches of uneven ground. Because conservation activity is still under way, HES will provide hard hats and high-visibility vests for those taking part.
Balvaird Castle is v…
The castle’s appearance in the Outlander prequel has renewed interest in the location, with fans keen to connect the screen version of Castle Leathers to its real Perthshire setting. In the series, the character of the 11th Lord Lovat is the grandfather of Jamie Fraser from the original production, adding to the site’s draw among viewers.
Key practical details
- Dates: Selected dates between 15 July and 22 August
- Booking: Places are limited and must be reserved in advance
- Access: Interior rooms and, weather permitting, the roof walk
- Age and safety: Under-sevens cannot take part; hard hats and high-vis vests supplied by HES
- Terrain: Uneven ground and spiral staircases; sturdy footwear recommended
- Facilities: No visitor toilets on site; dogs not permitted in roofed areas
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Ochil Hills, Perth and Kinross |
| Period | Late 15th century (built 1495) |
| Historic owners | Murray family |
| Screen role | Castle Leathers in Outlander: Blood of My Blood |
| Public access status | First interior tours in over 10 years |
Local impact and visitor guidance
The temporary opening is expected to draw heritage visitors and television audiences alike to this part of Perthshire during the school holidays. Those considering a visit are advised to plan ahead: there are no on-site toilets, access involves stairs and confined spaces, and tours will proceed in small groups to protect the fabric of the building. Dogs are not allowed in roofed areas, and participants should come prepared for variable weather, especially if the roof walk is available on the day.
While the castle is best known locally for its silhouette on the ridge of the Ochils, the current programme offers a structured way to understand its architectural features and the daily realities of early modern residence. The measures in place — including protective equipment and controlled routes — reflect the delicate nature of the site as conservation work continues.
With limited dates and capacity, early booking will be essential. Visitors can expect a focused experience that balances access with preservation, highlighting why Balvaird remains one of Perth and Kinross’s most distinctive historic tower houses.
