A CLACKS castle which once impressed Mary, Queen of Scots, is set to re-open for visitors.

Castle Campbell is among 20 iconic attractions set to welcome visitors back, just in time for the Easter weekend.

It comes as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is re-opening a number of familiar and popular seasonal sites as the country heads into spring.

The medieval castle above Dollar, and its gardens, officially re-open for visitors on Friday, March 29, and will remain open until September 30 with last entries at 4pm.

It will play host to HES' Easter Eggsplorer Trails with families invited to solve the trail challenge for a chocolate treat until Monday, April 1.

Originally called Castle Gloom, the early 15th century structure was the lowland residence of the Campbell earls of Argyll around 1465, hence the change of name.

It remained with the powerful noble family until the mid-17th century when the 9th earl relocated to Argyll's Lodging in Stirling – thereafter the castle fell into ruin.

Stephen Duncan, director of marketing and engagement at HES, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to welcome visitors back to so many of our iconic sites this season.

“These historic attractions contain invaluable stories about Scotland’s past, and we’re thrilled that these places can once again be enjoyed by people across the country. 

“We’re also pleased to be able to re-open and increase access at further sites following high-level masonry inspections, with over 90 per cent of our estate open for the public to explore and enjoy.”

Nearby Cambuskenneth Abbey, the resting place of King James III and his wife Queen Margaret in the shadow of Stirling Castle, has also re-opened on March 24 and those interested can visit daily until September 30 with last entries at 5pm.

For more information about individual sites, including detailed opening times, visit historyawaits.scot.