Castles in Scotland to Visit: A Journey Through History

October 25, 2024

Scotland’s landscape is dotted with castles, each with its own unique story, architectural style, and breathtaking views. Whether perched on cliffs, hidden in lush glens, or standing guard over lochs, these castles offer a window into Scotland’s medieval past, royal heritage, and cultural identity. This guide takes you through some of the must-visit castles across Scotland, from famous landmarks to hidden gems.

For even more castles and travel tips across Scotland, don’t miss The Awesome Guide to Scotland, your go-to resource for exploring Scotland’s historic sites.

1. Edinburgh Castle – Scotland’s Iconic Fortress

Location: Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, is Scotland’s most famous castle and a major attraction in the capital. This fortress has witnessed sieges, royal ceremonies, and housed Scotland’s Crown Jewels.

Highlights:

The Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny: Marvel at the Honours of Scotland, and learn about the Stone of Destiny’s historical significance.
St. Margaret’s Chapel: The oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, dating back to the 12th century.
The Great Hall and Mons Meg: Explore medieval architecture and view one of the largest cannons in Europe.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and watch the One O’Clock Gun firing ceremony.

2. Stirling Castle – Gateway to the Highlands

Location: Stirling
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s grandest fortresses and played a pivotal role in Scottish history. Located between the Lowlands and Highlands, it served as a strategic military stronghold.

Highlights:

The Royal Palace: Tour the beautifully restored Renaissance palace and see the ornate carvings and colorful decor.
The Great Hall: Discover where Scottish royalty held grand banquets and ceremonies.
The Wallace Monument: Located nearby, this tower honors William Wallace and offers sweeping views of the region.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Bannockburn Battlefield for a complete historic experience.

3. Dunnottar Castle – A Cliffside Fortress

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
Dunnottar Castle is one of Scotland’s most dramatic ruins, perched on a clifftop overlooking the North Sea. Its rugged beauty and fascinating history make it a must-see for any castle enthusiast.

Highlights:

Spectacular Clifftop Views: The castle’s location offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in Scotland.
Historical Significance: This castle safeguarded the Honours of Scotland from Oliver Cromwell’s forces in the 17th century.
Photo Opportunities: Dunnottar is a photographer’s dream, with its crumbling walls set against a striking seascape.

Insider Tip: Bring sturdy shoes for the walk to the castle, as the path is steep and uneven.

4. Urquhart Castle – Loch Ness’s Lakeside Ruin

Location: Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness
Overlooking the mysterious Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland’s most visited ruins. With a turbulent history of conflict and conquest, the castle is an ideal spot to explore Scotland’s medieval past.

Highlights:

Loch Ness Views: Enjoy sweeping views of the loch and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of Nessie.
The Great Hall and Tower House: Explore the remnants of the grand hall and the castle’s main tower.
Interpretive Center: Learn about the castle’s history and the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.

Insider Tip: Take a boat tour of Loch Ness to see Urquhart Castle from the water.

5. Eilean Donan Castle – A Highland Icon

Location: Dornie, near the Isle of Skye
Eilean Donan is one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, often featured on postcards and films. Situated on an island at the meeting point of three lochs, this castle is a symbol of the Highlands.

Highlights:

Scenic Location: Surrounded by lochs and mountains, Eilean Donan offers unparalleled views.
Restored Interiors: Explore the beautifully restored rooms and learn about the castle’s connection to Clan MacRae.
Visitor Center: Enjoy exhibits on the castle’s history and a café with stunning views.

Insider Tip: Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture the castle in beautiful light.

6. Craigievar Castle – A Fairytale Fortress

Location: Alford, Aberdeenshire
With its pink-tinted walls and turreted towers, Craigievar Castle looks like something out of a storybook. Built in the 17th century, it is one of Scotland’s best-preserved tower houses.

Highlights:

Unique Architecture: Craigievar’s fairytale appearance, with its turrets and pink stone, is truly one-of-a-kind.
Period Furnishings: The castle’s interior is filled with period furniture, art, and relics from Scottish nobility.
Beautiful Grounds: Wander through the estate’s wooded grounds and take in views of the surrounding countryside.

Insider Tip: Craigievar is closed in winter, so plan a summer visit to see it in its full glory.

7. Balmoral Castle – The Royal Family’s Scottish Retreat

Location: Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire
Balmoral Castle is the British royal family’s private residence in Scotland, purchased by Queen Victoria in 1852. It remains a beloved retreat for the royals and is open to the public seasonally.

Highlights:

Royal History: Visit Queen Victoria’s favorite residence, now a retreat for the current royal family.
Exquisite Gardens: Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and woodland trails.
Seasonal Access: Parts of the castle and estate are open to the public from April to July.

Insider Tip: Check the opening dates, as the estate closes when the royal family is in residence.

8. Inveraray Castle – A Living Residence

Location: Inveraray, Argyll
The ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Inveraray Castle is one of the few Scottish castles that remain a family residence. With its striking Gothic architecture and vibrant interiors, it’s a wonderful blend of history and modernity.

Highlights:

Sumptuous Interiors: Explore the opulent rooms filled with artwork, tapestries, and armor.
Gardens and Grounds: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the castle’s gardens, featuring woodland trails and riverside paths.
Clan Campbell History: The castle is the seat of Clan Campbell, one of Scotland’s most powerful clans.

Insider Tip: Check for seasonal events, as the castle hosts Highland games, traditional music, and more.

9. Floors Castle – Scotland’s Largest Inhabited Castle

Location: Kelso, Scottish Borders
The largest inhabited castle in Scotland, Floors Castle is the home of the Duke of Roxburghe. Its elegant exterior and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit in the Scottish Borders.

Highlights:

Grand Architecture: Admire the castle’s ornate towers and Georgian architecture.
Lavish Interiors: Explore the castle’s opulent rooms, filled with fine art, antiques, and tapestries.
Walled Gardens: The formal gardens and Victorian greenhouses are a highlight, especially in spring and summer.

Insider Tip: Visit the castle’s café for a delightful afternoon tea overlooking the gardens.

Enhance Your Castle Tour with The Awesome Guide to Scotland

For a deeper dive into Scotland’s castles, download The Awesome Guide to Scotland. This comprehensive guide offers historical insights, travel tips, and practical information on visiting Scotland’s iconic sites.

Key Takeaways

Diverse Castles: Scotland is home to an incredible variety of castles, from royal residences to scenic ruins perched on cliffs.
Historic and Cultural Significance: Each castle has unique stories of battles, royal life, and architectural innovation.
Practical Tips: Plan your castle visits with seasonal hours in mind, as many castles have limited access or special events.

FAQ: Visiting Castles in Scotland

1. Can you stay in a Scottish castle?
Yes, many castles in Scotland offer accommodations, including Dalhousie Castle near Edinburgh and Inverlochy Castle in the Highlands.

2. Are Scottish castles open year-round?
Some castles are open year-round, while others, especially smaller ones, may only open seasonally. Check the specific castle’s website for details.

3. What are the best castles for photography?
Dunnottar Castle, Eilean Donan Castle, and Edinburgh Castle are highly photogenic, offering dramatic landscapes and historic architecture.

4. Are there guided tours available?
Most larger castles, such as Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle, offer guided tours or audio guides. Smaller castles may have self-guided tours.

5. What is the Castle Trail?
The Castle Trail is a scenic route in Aberdeenshire featuring 19 castles, including Dunnottar, Craigievar, and Crathes. It’s ideal for those wanting to see multiple castles in one region.

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