Hermit’s Castle Review: History & Visitor Guide

I was excited to visit Hermit’s Castle when planning our trip of the NC500 and it was even better than I thought it would be. Yes, it’s small (although still weirdly larger than I expected if that makes sense?), but it’s incredibly unique – I love the dramatic backdrop. I didn’t think you could go inside but you can and I highly recommend you do too!

I think the journey to find the castle added to my enjoyment too. It’s a little bit of a trek from the car park and we weren’t 100% sure where it was as there are no signs. Also, we walked through a gate which warned us about three angry sheep so we had to keep one eye out whilst being quite.

I also recommend visiting Dunvegan Castle, Dunrobin Castle and Eilean Donan Castle.

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My Photos of Hermit’s Castle

These photos are free to use, all I ask is you link back to this page as credit.

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History of Hermit’s Castle

Hermit’s Castle is a tiny concrete structure tucked into the rocky coastline of Achmelvich Bay, in the far northwest of Scotland. Built in the 1950s by David Scott, an architect from Norwich, it’s often described as Europe’s smallest castle — though technically it’s a Brutalist-style bothy rather than a true castle.

Scott reportedly spent six months constructing the building single-handedly, hauling materials in by boat and blending the structure into the natural stone of the peninsula. Despite the effort, legend says he stayed only one weekend before abandoning it, never to return. The reasons remain unknown — adding a layer of mystery to this solitary retreat.

Today, Hermit’s Castle stands as a curious architectural folly: stark, compact, and hauntingly poetic. It’s a hidden gem on the North Coast 500 route, offering visitors a moment of solitude and reflection amid dramatic coastal scenery.

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9 Interesting Facts About Hermit’s Castle

1. It’s often called Europe’s smallest castle, though it’s really a concrete bothy.
2. The structure measures less than 10 square metres — just enough for a bed platform and fireplace.
3. It was built in Brutalist style, with sharp angles and raw concrete blending into the rocks.
4. The original design included glass windows and a door, both now missing.
5. The castle is camouflaged so well it’s nearly invisible until you’re right beside it.
6. The interior features a single bed platform, chimney, hearth, and built-in shelves.
7. It’s located on a rocky promontory behind Achmelvich’s Shore Caravan Site.
8. Despite its name, overnight stays are not permitted.
9. The castle is free to visit and open year-round.

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Practical Information for Visiting Hermit’s Castle

• Location: Achmelvich Bay, near Lochinver, Sutherland, Scotland
• Opening Times: Open access, year-round; best visited in daylight
• Entry Fees: Free
• Recommended Visit Duration: 30–45 minutes
  (Allow extra time for beach walk or photography)
• Tickets: No booking required
• Parking:
  • Achmelvich Beach Car Park (free)
  • Short walk from Shore Caravan Site
• Accessibility:
  • Not wheelchair accessible; uneven terrain and rocky paths
  • Sturdy footwear recommended
• Dogs:
  • Welcome on leads; beach and headland are dog-friendly
• Food & Drink:
  • Shore Caravan Site shop and seasonal food vans nearby
• Toilets:
  • Available at Shore Caravan Site (seasonal)
• Transport:
  • Car: From Lochinver, follow signs to Achmelvich
  • Bus: Route 809 from Ullapool to Lochinver (limited service)
• Nearby: Achmelvich Beach, Clachtoll Broch, Suilven, Culag Woods

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