Bounded by hills Kinross enjoys a stunning setting at Perthshire's southern border. When you consider its close proximity to the splendour of the Perthshire Highlands, as well as Edinburgh St Andrews, Dunfermline and Stirling, it easy to understand why this area has established itself as an excellent touring destination.

Undoubtedly the main feature of this area is Loch Leven, the largest loch of the Scottish Lowlands. Declared a nature reserve in 1964 the Loch today is of international importance attracting around 15,000 geese every autumn.

Sitting peacefully on an islet in Loch Leven lies the enchanting Loch Leven Castle. Between April and October you can visit the the island by ferry and witness for yourself the historic scene of intrigue and romance. The Castle gained infamy when it acted as a prison for Mary Queen of Scots in 1567. Her dramatic escape by boat is one of Scotland's most romantic tales.

Kinross House built by Sir William Bruce is another example of the fine architecture of Kinross. Near Kinross are Balvaird Castle, Elcho Castle and much, much more. Walking, golfing and fishing all are to be found in abundance.

The Kinross area one of my favourite parts of Scotland. Not only is the town and local area very beautiful, but Kinross is ideally situated as a base location, within east driving distance to numerous other great Scottish sites.

Loch Leven Castle is located on an island towards the western margin of the loch and it is most famous as the prison of Mary, Queen of Scots, (1542-87) between the Summer of 1567, following her surrender at Carberry Hill to her half-brother James Douglas (c.1516-81), the 4th Earl of Morton, and the Spring of 1568, when she escaped. Shortly after being imprisoned, Mary was forced to abdicate in favour of her infant son James VI (1566 - 1625) and Morton became Regent. Her gaoler was Sir William Douglas, who later became the 5th Earl of Morton. However, it was Sir William's younger son who arranged her escape having fallen for the Queen.

The castle was probably constructed in the 13th C., survived various sieges by the English during the 14th C. and was granted to the Douglas family in 1372 by King Robert II (1316-90). The square keep dates from the 15th C. In 1675 the Castle was bought from the indigent Douglases, along with a sizeable estate, by Sir William Bruce (1630 - 1710) who proceeded to build Kinross House, a fine palladian mansion, overlooking the loch and the castle.

Loch Leven Castle has been a ruin since the 18th C, but can be reached by ferry from Kinross duing the summer months.