Cawdor Castle

Turreted Highland castle linked by legend to Shakespeare's Macbeth

  • Scotland
  • Highland
  • 14th century
  • Tower house / Scots Baronial
  • castle

Cawdor Castle grew around a 14th-century tower built, by legend, where a donkey lay down beneath a thorn tree. Though forever linked to Shakespeare's Macbeth, the real castle postdates the historical king; it remains the romantic home of the Thanes of Cawdor.

Construction: Central tower late 14th century; later ranges

Frequently asked questions

When was Cawdor Castle built?
Cawdor Castle was built mainly in the 14th century. Full construction span: Central tower late 14th century; later ranges.
Where is Cawdor Castle?
Cawdor Castle is in Nairn, Scotland (around 57.52°, -3.93°).
What kind of castle is Cawdor Castle?
Cawdor Castle is a castle in the Tower house / Scots Baronial style. Turreted Highland castle linked by legend to Shakespeare's Macbeth.