We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
All 344 Edinburgh Attractions »

Blackness Castle

Edinburgh EH49 7NH, Scotland
Got a photo?
Add it.
Ranked #61 of 163 attractions in Edinburgh
4.0 of 5 stars 10 Reviews
Type: Historic Sites
Update attraction details
Write a Review

10 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    3
    6
    1
    0
    0
Date Rating
Glasgow, United Kingdom
Top Contributor
66 reviews 66 reviews
Reviews in 28 cities Reviews in 28 cities
24 helpful votes 24 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed May 5, 2012

Different from many of the other castles cared for by Historic Scotland. Some great views of the Forth and the building is well cared for. The courtyard remains in original paving that is uneven and rough. However, keeping it in original conditionensures the ambience is not lost. Great value with an annual subscription to Historic Scotland More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 7 more reviews by KieranG for Edinburgh
Scotland
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 28, 2012

We heard about this castle from a few friends who said it was lovely and so decided to visit and we weren't disappointed. It is situated on the river forth and there is a pier outside with great views (on a nice day) to the Forth Rail Bridge. The ground is very uneven and there is scaffolding up but it... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by Louise O for Edinburgh
Dundee, United Kingdom
Senior Contributor
40 reviews 40 reviews
Reviews in 20 cities Reviews in 20 cities
15 helpful votes 15 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed April 16, 2012

I've known about Blackness Castle for some time, but this is the fist time I'vemanaged to see it. I've also heaard of, but never understood it's nickname of "the ship that never sailed". Having seen it, it all make sense. getting there is part of the visit. We came via Linlithgow (worth a visit), over the hills giving some superb... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Senior Reviewer
8 reviews 8 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed March 22, 2012
2
people found this review helpful

Stumbled upon Blackness by searching Near Me Now - attracted by positive reviews and, having only an hour to spare, tempted by the fact it's a small attraction and cheap to enter. Beautifully formed castle (in the shape of a ship) with some very interesting architectural features including vaulted ceilings, fireplaces and secret tunnels. Great welcome and history overview. Guide... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Glenrothes
Top Contributor
103 reviews 103 reviews
Reviews in 22 cities Reviews in 22 cities
18 helpful votes 18 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed March 8, 2012
2
people found this review helpful

Blackness was built in the shape of a ship and retains that shape to this day. The castle is believed to have been built in the mid 15th century with further additions and modifications at later dates. Be very careful in the courtyard. It's unpaved and very rough and uneven to walk on. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 56 more reviews by Charlie H for Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Top Contributor
57 reviews 57 reviews
Reviews in 14 cities Reviews in 14 cities
13 helpful votes 13 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed February 16, 2012

Visited serveral years ago and one of the kids was just out of a buggy and it wasn't really suitable. Too many stairs and uneven surfaces. Kids now older and went for a return visit and really enjoyed. Views were lovely although the jetty/pier wasn't opened as too windy. Could really do with a tearoom even if just in the... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by Cr1mson for Edinburgh
Livingston, United Kingdom
Top Contributor
54 reviews 54 reviews
Reviews in 18 cities Reviews in 18 cities
12 helpful votes 12 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 9, 2012
1
person found this review helpful

Fairly unusual castle. Good sea bird watching. Worth Exploring. No tea room - although I'm sure there could be. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 16 more reviews by JamesDeans86 for Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Senior Reviewer
6 reviews 6 reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
4 of 5 stars Reviewed January 30, 2012
1
person found this review helpful

Blackness is well worth a visit. Lots of nooks and crannies for the wee ones to explore - lot of stairs too though. Views of the Forth from the top of the main block are stunning, even on what was a dull, cold January day. Staff all very friendly and helpful too! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Senior Contributor
42 reviews 42 reviews
Reviews in 13 cities Reviews in 13 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 19, 2012

A lesser known spot to take in the view of the Firth of Fourth. thoroughly enjoyed our visit. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 16 more reviews by CeeKee19 for Edinburgh
Stafford, United Kingdom
Contributor
18 reviews 18 reviews
Reviews in 9 cities Reviews in 9 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed November 5, 2011
3
people found this review helpful

Lots of nooks and crannies to investigate and you can even walk along the walls at the top with amazing views! There is a working drawbridge and a free quiz for the kids to do. There's lots of information on the history of the castle and a lovely picnic area with views for a summers day. The pier is also... More

Was this review helpful? Yes

Travelers who viewed Blackness Castle also viewed

Gilmerton Cove
5 of 5 stars 100 Reviews
Edinburgh, Scotland
Craigmillar Castle
4.5 of 5 stars 42 Reviews
Edinburgh, Scotland
 
Arthur\
4.5 of 5 stars 732 Reviews
Edinburgh, Scotland
Inchcolm Abbey
4.5 of 5 stars 43 Reviews
Edinburgh, Scotland
 

Been to Blackness Castle? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Blackness Castle, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing
See all sites
Cruise Critic

The ultimate cruise resource: cruise reviews, deals, news and advice.

SeatGuru

The world's most comprehensive source for airline seats, airline info, & in-flight amenities.

Family Vacation Critic

The best family vacations start here.

Best beach houses of 2012 »