Mary's retreat outside Edinburgh, later transformed into Ardsmuir Prison for Outlander.
Mary's retreat
Craigmillar grew around a fifteenth-century tower house built by the Preston family. Mary, Queen of Scots used it as a quieter royal retreat and stayed here while recovering from illness late in 1566, months after the birth of her son James.
The Craigmillar Bond
During Mary's stay, leading nobles discussed how to remove her estranged husband, Lord Darnley. The agreement remembered as the Craigmillar Bond does not survive, and historians disagree over what Mary knew or approved. Darnley was murdered at Kirk o' Field in Edinburgh in February 1567.
A castle made for exploring
The layered courtyards, chambers and stairs make Craigmillar one of Scotland's most complete medieval castle complexes. Its height also gives a direct view back toward Edinburgh, close enough to court for political business but separate enough to serve as a retreat.
Ardsmuir on screen
Outlander used Craigmillar's rugged walls and courtyards as Ardsmuir Prison in the third television season, where Jamie Fraser is held after Culloden. Ardsmuir is fictional; the castle's documented history belongs to medieval and early-modern Scotland.
What to look for while you're here
- The central tower house enclosed by later courtyards and walls.
- Views back toward Edinburgh and Arthur's Seat.
- The narrow spiral stairs and rooftop routes, remembering current conservation restrictions.
Before you go
- Parts of the rooftop walkway are currently restricted for conservation. Parking is very limited; upper levels require narrow, uneven stairs.