Scottish Castles

Local information

Balintore Castle, Angus and Dundee

Location: Kirriemuir, DD8 5JS (map and directions)

Balintore Castle, a Category A Listed Building, is located 3 miles north of Kirriemuir in Angus north of the Loch of Lintrathen.

Balintore Castle © Stephen Samson

History of Balintore Castle

Though a tower house by the name of Balintor had existed on site in the late 16th century, the present-day Balintore Castle was designed in 1859 by William Burn, commissioned as a sporting lodge by David Lyon, MP. Lyon had inherited his family’s millions which were made through investments in the East India Company.

Balintore Castle was built in Scottish Baronial style, with many towers and gables, while the Great Hall is the centrepiece of the castle’s interior. The castle is also home to a gallery, several bedrooms, brushing room, beer cellar, a lumber room, dining room, library, a women servant’s sitting room and a butler’s pantry despite the fact that Balintore was only ever used during shooting season.

In the 1960s the castle was abandoned due to deterioration issues and was standing vacant until 2007, when Balintore’s condition became so unfavourable that the survival of the structure became endangered. It was at this point that a Scotsman purchased the castle, which is now completely intended for private use only.

Map and directions

Other castles in Angus & Dundee