historic scotland castles to visit

25 Best Castles in Scotland You Need to Visit + Map

Castles are an integral part of Scotland’s history – they are dotted around the whole country. Some are perched on volcanic rocks, dramatic seaside clifftops, some have fairytale architecture, some have elegant gardens, some are significantly ruined – each one of them is unique on its own. No trip to this beautiful country would be complete without visiting some of the best and most scenic castles in Scotland.

These castles were mainly built for defence purposes by Clan chiefs and Scottish nobilities. Most of them have gone through trials and tribulations over centuries – they were caught up in battles, rebellion, uprising, sieges, independence. It’s fascinating to see these castles and to learn about the role they played in shaping Scotland’s history.

We have listed down the 25 best castles in Scotland that you can include in your Scotland itinerary. Most of them are easily accessible on a day trip from Edinburgh and Glasgow.

In this travel guide, you will find what’s unique about these castles, things to see and do, opening hours, admission prices, intriguing facts, insider tips and how to reach there. 

🤔How Many Castles are there in Scotland?

Though the exact number varies, it is estimated that once there were nearly 3000 castles in Scotland. That is almost one in every 100 square miles. You are never too far from them wherever you are in Scotland. Evidently, Scotland is a heaven for anyone having a keen interest in historic houses. Aberdeenshire, famously known as the “ Scotland’s Castle Country ” is home to around 263 of them.

Established in 1931, The National Trust for Scotland conserves and owns around 130 castles and estate houses around Scotland. Historic Scotland, founded in 1991, looks after about 65 castles. Also, some of the historic buildings today are owned privately and not accessible to the public. Some have been converted into hotels, where you can spend a night or two.

🌞Best Time to Visit the Castles in Scotland

June to early September is the best time for castle-hunting in Scotland. The weather typically stays relatively dry and warm around this time. However, you can never trust Scottish weather – you can expect some rain any time of the year. All the attractions remain open in summer, and the surrounding gardens in full blooms look stunning. 

Spring is also a good choice, with daffodils, bluebells and rhododendrons bursting into blooms. The days are reasonably long, and it’s not too cold either. If you are okay with the rain, autumn would also be a great choice with lovely brilliant colours all around.

Some of the Scottish castles are open all year round whereas some close their doors during the winter months. So, check the opening hours before you pay a visit.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 25 Best Castles in Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

1. edinburgh castle.

🏰Why you should visit : Sitting atop an extinct volcanic rock in the heart of Edinburgh’s old town, Edinburgh Castle is one of the best historic castles in Scotland . This medieval fortification is steeped in over 900 years of history and draws in millions of visitors every year. Step inside, listen to its fascinating past and give your eyes a treat to the cracking view of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. The iconic outline of Arthur’s Seat with Salisbury Crag looks very photogenic. Also, you can spot the National Monument of Scotland and Nelson Monument on the top of Calton Hill .

📖 Read More: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

You would easily spend a few hours exploring the castle, learning its fascinating past and admiring the stunning view of the city skyline.

• St Margaret’s Chapel is the oldest building in Scotland dating back to the 12th century.
• It sits on an extinct volcano that had its last eruption 340 million years ago.
• Many believe it’s one of the most haunted places in the country.
• It is the most besieged castle in Europe.

Top Tips : While you are here, don’t miss the One O’clock gunfire – once a maritime timekeeper, now a spectacular show that happens every day at 1 pm except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Advance booking is definitely recommended to avoid the queue particularly in summer.

If you are planning a visit in August during the Fringe Festival, you are in luck. Book yourself a ticket in advance and enjoy the spectacular show of world-renowned Royal Military Tattoo on the adjacent esplanade.

How to Reach : This imposing castle lies in the middle of the Old Town of Edinburgh and can be seen from miles. Just a short walk from Waverley train station.

⏰ Opening Hours : Open daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day. 1 April – 30 September 9:30 am – 6 pm, 1 October – 31 March 9:30 am – 5 pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £17.50, Child £10.50.

2. Eilean Donan - One of the Prettiest Castles in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: This is one of the most photographed and most famous castles in Scotland near the gateway of the Isle of Skye .

Perched on a small island, where three sea lochs – Loch Long, Loch Duich and Loch Alsh meet each other, Eilean Donan Castle is connected to the mainland by an arched stone bridge.

With so many mountain ranges of Kintail coming into view, no wonder why it’s such a popular spot among Instagrammers and photographers.

📖 Read More: 25 Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland: Detailed Guide + Map

🤓For History Buffs: Eilean Donan (Island of Donan) gets its name from the Irish Bishop, St Donan – who came to Scotland in the late 6th century. When it was originally built in the 13th century, it encompassed the whole island with seven towers and a curtain wall.

Over the centuries, the castle reduced in size, and during the Jacobite Rising, it was blown up by the Government troops. The present-day structure was rebuilt in the early 1900s. Step inside and learn more about its riveting past.

📖 Read More: How to Spend a day in Plockton, Scotland- The Jewel of the Highlands

⭐Things to do:  History aside, Eilean Donan Castle has an incredibly beautiful and romantic setting. There are many viewpoints to admire the setting and take photos. One of the famous photo spots is near the Dornie Community Hall on the other side of the road bridge over Loch Long. You will have a fabulous view of the castle with the impressive mountains of Kintail in the backdrop. Another famous photo spot is the Eilean Donan Lookout – you will get to admire the stunning view from above.

🤔Did you Know: It has been featured in several movies, music videos, TV series including blockbusters such as the 1999 Bond film – ’The World is Not Enough ‘, 1986 cult classic – ‘Highlander’, 1998 famous Bollywood film – ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’.

📖 Read More: 20 of the Most Picturesque Villages in Scotland

🔥Insider Tip: Just a short walk from Eilean Donan Castle lies a small fishing village, Dornie. This lochside village is lined up with colourful houses that include a small village shop, a hotel and two pubs. We loved having a peaceful stroll around this beautiful village. We would definitely recommend a visit.

🚗 How to reach by c ar –

• From Inverness 1 hour 45 min / 71 miles
• From Fort William 1 hour 30 min / 65.4 miles
• From Inverness 4 hour / 167 miles

🚌 How to Reach by Bus – Catch Citylink bus service 915, 916, 917 from Glasgow, Inverness or Portree on the Isle of Skye. The bus stop is called Bridge Road end. It takes 38 minutes from Broadford and 1 hour 18 minutes from Portree on the Isle of Skye.

⏰ Opening Hours : Varies depending on the season. Generally 10.00 am – 6.00 pm during summer months.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £10, child £6 and family £29.

3. Dunrobin Castle, Sutherland

🏰 Why you should visit: Perched on a clifftop overlooking the Moray Firth, you would feel Dunrobin Castle is cut out straight from a storybook. With a magnificent walled garden, conical spires, cracking view over to the sea – every inch of this fairytale castle is just like a postcard.

The overall ambience is so unreal. It’s a must-visit place if you are on NC500 Road trip.

What to See : Home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland since the 1300s, this is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland. Also, this is the largest one in the North of Scotland with 189 rooms.  The interior is very elegant – you would see a great collection of artefacts from the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland.

The architecture of Dunrobin Castle is best enjoyed from the walled garden, which was built in the style of the Garden of Versailles. Another star attraction here is the Falconry Show. You would very much enjoy the flying and hunting prowess of the resident birds.

For History Buffs : This fairytale castle was originally built as a fortress and significantly remodelled to a Baronial house by Sir Charles Barry who also designed the House of Parliament in London. It was used as boys boarding school for seven years in the late 1960s.

• From Inverness 1 hr 10 min / 53.6 miles
• From Glasgow 4 hour / 219 miles

🚂 How to reach by Train – Dunrobin Castle station is a request stop in the Scotrail service between Inverness and Wick. The castle is just a short walk from the station.

While at the train, the staff would usually check with you about your destination, so no problem getting down there. For the return journey, you will have to make yourself visible and wave at the train.

🚌 How to reach by B us – Stagecoach bus X99 from Inverness. Takes 1 hr 24 min to reach Dunrobin.

⏰ Opening Hours : Open in specific months only. Daily 10.00 am – 5.00 pm in May-September, 10.30 am – 4.30 pm in October.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £12.50, Child £7.50.

4. Dunnottar Castle - The Most Dramatic Structure in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Nestled on the northeast coast of Scotland, Dunnottar Castle has the most dramatic setting than any others in the country. Sitting on a rocky promontory surrounded by the North Sea, this one is extremely photogenic. This ruined fortification ranks high on the list of top castles to visit in Scotland.

What to See: Like its setting, the gateway to this ruined medieval castle is quite dramatic; First, you will have a steep descend via a narrow winding path and then you will have to climb up through about 200 steps. Totally worth it when you get to see the rewarding view. Step inside and visit the Tower House, Whigs Vault and learn a great deal of history about its tumultuous past.

After visiting the castle, take the coastal path that goes along the cliff to the Stonehaven harbour. As you would walk along, some stunning views of the castle will gradually open up. Dunnottar is a very popular sunrise and sunset photography location.

Dive into history : The Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewel) was hidden here when Oliver Cromwell attacked this country in the 1600s. It once had a pet lion during the time of the 5 th Earl of Marischal.

🚗 How to Reach by car –

• From Dundee 1 hr / 50.8 miles
• From Aberdeen 30 min / 18.9 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour / 112 miles

🚌 How to reach by b us – Stagecoach bus X7 and 107 from Aberdeen stops at the A92, a short walk from the Castle.

🚂 How to reach by train – The nearest train station is Stonehaven.  

⏰ Opening Hours : Open daily 361 days of the year. Castle opening times seasonal. Summer 1st April – 30th September 09.00 – 18.00. Winter 1st October – 30th October 10.00 – 17.00, 31st October – 29th January 10.00 – 15.00, 30th January – 26th February 10.00 – 16.00, 27th February – 31st March 10.00 – 17.00.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £8, Child £4.

5. Urquhart Castle, Scottish Highlands

🏰 Why you should visit : An iconic landmark on the shore of Loch Ness – the largest freshwater lake by volume in Britain, this is one of the most visited castles in Scotland. It has more than 1000 years of stormy past over its ownership which passed back and forth between the English and the Scottish. Though mostly a ruin now, the magical setting makes it a must-visit castle destination in Scotland.

What to See: Climb up the Grant Tower and enjoy an open view of the vast stretch of Loch Ness against the backdrop of the mountains. The setting of the Highland castle is hard to top.

Visit the Prison Cell – you can get an idea of how the prisoners were held captive here in medieval times.

Take a boat cruise down Loch Ness and admire the stunning surroundings. Loch Ness is home to Nessie – the famous Loch Ness Monster. So, keep your eyes peeled out in case you can spot this ever-evading creature.

Dive into history : Irish monk, St Columba is believed to have visited the site in the 6th century when Urquhart Castle was a Pictish fort.

Urquhart was caught up in Clan battles. MacDolands attacked this castle, owned by Clan Grant, several times. During the Great Raid of 1545, they, along with their allies, took most of the valuable items including live stocks.

🚗   How to reach by car  –

• From Inverness 30 min / 17.5 miles
• From Fort William 1 hour 8 min / 48.6 miles
• From Edinburgh 3 hour 25 min / 174 miles
• From Glasgow 3 hour 27 min / 186 miles
• From Aberdeen 2 hour 50 min / 121 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Citylink buses 917, 919, 920 from Inverness bus station. Takes around 30 minutes.  

⏰ Opening Hours : Open daily. Opening times varies by month. Mostly 9.30 am – 6 pm in summer and 9.30 am – 4.30 pm in winter.  

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £9.60 and child £5.80.

6. Stirling Castle - One of the Best Historic Sites in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Located in the historic city of Stirling, this is one of the most historic and largest fortifications in Scotland.

It was the primary Scottish royal residence in Scotland before the Act of Union with England. Most of the present buildings of this medieval fortress were built in the 15th century. 

It was caught up significantly in the Scottish War of Independence and was besieged many times. With easy access from Edinburgh and Glasgow, it is one of the best castles in Scotland. Also, there are many incredible things to do in Stirling for all travellers.

⭐What to See: There are plenty of things to see and do here. Explore the Great Hall, the Royal Chapel, Marvel at the grand tapestries of the Royal Palace and learn about a great deal of history about Stirling Castle . The Palace Vaults host a range of interactive exhibits which both the adult and younger visitors would enjoy. There is a small garden on the south side – The Queen Anne Garden where you can sit back and relax.

The castle and the esplanade offer a stunning view of the surrounding Ochil Hills and other important landmarks in Stirling.

Learn the history : Mary Queen of Scots, one of the most important characters in the history of Scotland, was crowned in the chapel here at the age of nine months. World’s oldest football was discovered here.

Castle Esplanade has hosted many open-air concerts, including one of Bob Dylan’s and Runrig’s.

💡Expert tips: Don’t miss the stone statue of Robert the Bruce on the esplanade. Also, a must-visit attraction in Stirling is the National Wallace Monument which you can see from here.

If you are a keen walker, take a ramble around the Back Walk – a very popular walk circling the old town of Stirling. You would get to admire some beautiful panoramic views. There is a beautiful view of the castle from Old Town Cemetery just beneath the esplanade.

🚗   How to reach by car  – 

• From Edinburgh 1 hour / 36.3 miles
• From Glasgow 36 min / 26.3 miles
• From Dundee 1 hour 4 min / 55.4 miles
• From Perth 42 min / 33.8 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Stirling is very well connected with all the major cities. First Bus, Megabus , Scottish Citylink run frequent bus services from Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Perth. From the bus station, the castle is around 14 minutes walk.

🚂 How to reach by Train – Stirling train station is 15 minutes walk from the castle. There is frequent Scotrail services to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee.

⏰ Opening Hours : Open daily. Hours vary by month. Mostly 9.30 am – 6 pm during summer months, and 9.30 am – 5 pm during winter months.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £16 and child £9.60.

7. Balmoral Castle - The Royal Abode in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit : The royal residence in the Scottish countryside in Aberdeenshire, Balmoral Castle is one of the prettiest castles in Scotland. It is believed to be Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite residence. She spent her summer holidays here. Also, it is located near the incredibly beautiful village of Braemar,  one of the best villages in Scotland .

📖 Read More: 15 Incredibly Awesome Things to Do in and around Braemar, Cairngorms National Park

⭐What to See:  It is located inside a huge estate privately owned by the Royals since Prince Albert bought this estate in the mid-19th century.

Take a guided tour, learn about the Royal history here and visit the Ballroom, which is only open to the public. Roam around the ground and admire the beautiful view of Balmoral Castle against the backdrop of the Cairngorm Mountains.

After exploring the castle, do the Balmoral Cairns circuit. It would take about 2.5 hours to complete. There are eleven stone cairns to commemorate special occasions in Royal history.

If you are a fan of a wildlife safari tour, book yourself a luxury Land Rover safari tour on the Balmoral estate. You will get to see the red deer, grouse, osprey. If you fancy staying in the Balmoral estate, you can book one of their holiday cottages. Booking in advance is recommended.

🧐For history buffs: Since 1987, a picture of Balmoral Castle appears on the reverse side of £100 notes issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland.

It is one of the two privately owned Royal residences, the other being Sandringham House in Norfolk, England. Queen Victoria spent a significant time of her life here after the purchase of the Balmoral Estate.

🔥Top Tips: Visit Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which is not too far from here. This Deeside Distillery got the Royal warrant after Prince Albert and Queen Victoria visited this distillery in the mid-19th century. You can book a distillery tour and enjoy a wee dram.

Hike up to the nearby Balmoral cairns, erected by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The pyramid-like sculpture of Prince Albert Cairn is unusual, not something you’d expect to see in Scotland.

🚗 How to reach by c ar –  

• From Aberdeen 1 hr 10 min / 47.3 miles
• From Aviemore 1 hr 20 min / 50.5 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hr 23 min / 103 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus – Ride a Stagecoach bus 201 Aberdeen bus station to Braemar. Takes 2 hrs to reach Balmoral road end bus stop. From there its a few minutes walk to the castle.  

⏰ Opening Hours : Seasonal opening. Access by guided tour only. April – July 10 am-5 pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £15, child £6.

8. Blair Castle, Perthshire

🏰 Why you should visit: Located in Blair Atholl in Perthshire, this one is the ancestral home of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. It has over 750 years of rich Highland history.

Caught up in Jacobite Uprising and the Third Civil War, this Scottish castle is home to the Atholl Highlanders – the only private army in Europe.

Nestled in a huge estate at the southern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park, it is one of the prettiest castles in Scotland.

🤔For History Lovers:  The Baronial entrance hall of the castle is very impressive with swords, muskets, targes (shields) hanging from the wood-panelled walls. Some of them were used at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. You will have a total of 30 rooms to explore which includes the magnificent Drawing Room, the grand Tapestry Room, the Victorian Ballroom.

⭐Things to do: Not only the grandeurs inside, but the castle estate also has a nine-acre beautifully decorated Hercules Garden which includes landscaped ponds, Chinese bridge. If you are fond of walking in nature, explore Diana’s Grove – which houses some of the tallest trees in Scotland. Also, pay a visit to the ruins of St Bride’s Kirk – the final resting place of Bonnie Dundee, a prominent Jacobite leader. Also, don’t miss the Deer Park nearby.

Plus, you can take part in plenty of activities like Luxury Highland Pony Picnics, Fishing, Beaver Tours in this huge estate.

🔥Did you Know: Blair castle opened its door to the public in 1936. It was one of the first stately houses in the UK to do so.

Atholl Highlanders, the only private army in Europe, escorted and guarded Queen Victoria during her visit to the Highlands in mid-19 th century. She commissioned regiment Colours for them being impressed by their service.

Blair Atholl Patrol Jamborette, an international scouting event, is held every two years on the ground of Blair Castle.

🚗 How to reach by car –

• From Edinburgh 1 hr 35 min / 77.6 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hr 38 min / 90.1 miles
• From Perth 50 min / 33.9 miles
• From Dundee 1 hr 15 min / 58.3 miles

🚌 How to reach by Bus – local bus company Elizabeth Yule runs Bus 87 from Pitlochry stops near the castle.

🚂 How to reach by Train – The nearest train station is Blair Atholl. The castle is a few minutes walk from there.

⏰ Opening Hours : 10.00 am – 5:30 pm

💰 Entrance fees : House and Gardens – Adult £15, Child £9. Gardens only – Adult £7.70, Child £4.

9. Culzean Castle, Ayrshire

🏰 Why you should visit: Located in South Ayrshire, Culzean castle is one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde, it offers some of the best views of the west coast of Scotland.

This former country house of Clan Kennedy is considered one of the masterpieces of the famous 18th-century Scottish architect Robert Adam. It is a perfect place to visit on a  day trip from Glasgow .

⭐What to See: Culzean Castle is nestled inside a huge estate of more than 600 acres. Step inside and marvel at Robert Adam’s Oval Staircase. Explore the walled garden, orangery, lush woodland, swan pond, ice house. Above all, the view across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran, Ailsa Craig and Mull of Kintyre is magnificent.

There is a sandy rocky beach just beneath the castle. You would be able to appreciate the grand architecture of the building from there.

🤔For History Buffs: The top floor of Culzean Castle was presented to President Eisenhower for his contribution to World War II. He visited here four times including the one when he was president of the US.

A picture of this Scottish fortification appeared on the reverse side of £5 notes issued by Royal Bank of Scotland from 1972 till 2015.

🚗 How to reach by car – 

• From Glasgow 1 hour 10 min / 49.7 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour / 95 miles

🚌 How to reach by public transport – Catch a train from Glasgow to Ayr. From Ayr, Stagecoach bus 60 towards Girvan.  

⏰ Opening Hours : Castle opening seasonal. See their website for opening hours.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £18.50

10. Craigievar Castle - Best Fairytale Building in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Some say this historic tower house is one of the inspirations for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Built in the 16 th century, this fairy-tale building was the former seat of Clan Sempill.

It is considered one of the best-preserved tower houses in Scotland. The pink tower house against the rolling hills is truly a hidden gem in Aberdeenshire, the castle county of Scotland.

⭐What to See: Admire the Scottish Baronial architecture of this tower house set amidst the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire. The interior of the caste is very nice as well having a superb collection of artworks. It has one of the best plasterwork ceilings in Scotland. After visiting the castle, walk around the surrounding woodland which is very scenic. You will have some great photo opportunities.

🙋Interesting Facts: The upper floor doesn’t have any artificial light installed as the previous wanted to have it this way. You would see all artefacts in natural light. Craigievar Castle is believed to be haunted.

• From Aberdeen 45 min / 27.1 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour 45 min / 126 miles
• From Glasgow 3 hour / 144 miles

⏰ Opening Hours : The estate is open daily. Access to inside the castle is by guided tour only. Open Apr-Oct time various.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £14.50.  

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 More Fairytale Castles in Scotland

11. cawdor castle, nairnshire.

🏰 Why you should visit: Nestled in Nairnshire, north of Scotland, this is one of the prettiest Highland castles in Scotland. Built around a 15th-century tower house, it was originally inhabited by the Calder family. The ownership of Cawdor passed to Clan Campbell in the 16th century. It is popularly connected to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, where one of the characters was Thane of Cawdor.

🤔What to See: Step inside and marvel at the magnificently colourful interiors – The Tapestry Bedroom, Yellow Sitting Room, Pink Bedroom, Dining Room. 

Cawdor Castle has some of the glorious gardens in Scotland. Explore the Walled Garden (the oldest garden), Flower Garden (has a French influence) and the Wild Garden. If you are a keen walker, take a ramble around the surrounding woodland – The Big Wood.

If you are hungry, pop into their in-house Café, The Courtyard Café. They have a great selection of cakes, soup and sandwiches.

🌺Dive into history: The most intriguing part of this historic house is the legendary 500 years old holly tree at the base of the Old Tower. There is an interesting story about how the castle was built. Legend has it, after receiving the royal license, the then Thane of Cawdor (then known as Calder) had a dream that he should fasten a bag of gold on the back of a donkey, and a castle would be built, where the donkey would first stop to rest. Apparently, the donkey stopped near the holly tree. 

📖 Read More: 17 Awesome Things to Do in Cullen, Moray Firth

• From Inverness 22 min / 13.9 miles
• From Edinburgh 3 hour 10 min / 175 miles
• From Aberdeen 2 hour / 92.3 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus – Catch Stagecoach bus 13 from Inverness bus station to Cawdor village.

⏰ Opening Hours : Daily from 30th April – 3rd October. Castle 10am – 4pm, Gardens and Grounds 10am-5.30pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £13.50 and child £7.50.

12. Inveraray Castle, Argyll

🏰 Why you should visit: Tucked away on the shore of Loch Fyne in Inveraray, this one is the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Campbell and one of the must-visit castles in Scotland. They are one of the most well-known Scottish clans across the world. 

From local walks to cute shops – there are many wonderful things to do in Inveraray .

📖 Read More: 15 Most Awesome Things to do in Inveraray, Scotland

🌼What to See: Step inside and discover the colourful past of this 18th-century green castle. You would get to know a great deal of history about Clan Campbell, their role in Scottish independence and Jacobite Rising. On the walls of the Armoury Hall, you will see the weapons (muskets, pikes, swords) used in the wars Clan Campbell got involved in. That includes the Battle of Culloden. Armoury Hall has one of the tallest ceilings in Scotland.

It has a gorgeous garden that is famous for its rhododendrons. A must-do thing after exploring the castle would be hiking to Dun Na Cuaiche Viewpoint. It’s an 18th-century watchtower over a nearby hill. It’s one of the best short hikes in Scotland with gorgeous view.

🧐Did you know: It was featured in the ITV historic drama Series, Downton Abbey as Lady Rose’s parental house in one of the Christmas episodes.

Present Duke of Argyll (also the chief of Clan Campbell) and his family still live in Inveraray Castle .

🌻Best tips : Hike to the nearby Dun Na Cuaiche viewpoint for the cracking panoramic view over Loch Fyne, Arrochar Alps and the Inveraray town. For another smashing view of the castle, walk to the stone-arched Inveraray Bridge beside Loch Fyne.

🚗 How to reach by Car –

• From Glasgow 1 hr 27 min / 65.5 miles
• From Oban 1 hr / 37.5 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour 20 min / 110 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus – Scottish Citylink operates regular bus service to Inveraray from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. Travel time is approximately 1hr 47 minutes.  

⏰ Opening Hours : 28 Mar – 31 Oct, 10am- 5pm

💰 Entrance fees : Castle & Gardens – Adult £14 , Child £10. Gardens Only – Adult £7.

13. Caerlaverock Castle, Dumfries & Galloway

🏰 Why you should visit: Located near the southern coast of Scotland in Dumfries, Caerlaverock Castle is one of the best moated fortifications in Scotland. Triangular defensive walls with twin towers front make its shape very unique. Due to its proximity to the English border, it got caught up in wars over the centuries and was besieged many times. Once a stronghold of the Maxwell family is now a well-preserved ruin.

What to see : This medieval castle was built in the 1200s. The most intriguing feature of Caerlaverock is the moated triangular defensive walls which are made of red sandstone. Step inside and witness the historic ruins.

The castle lies at the northern edge of the Caerlaverock National Natural Reserve. Take a peaceful walk in the woodland adjacent to it. In winter, this natural reserve is home to waterfowls and wading birds. You may be able to spot Barnacle Geese – they migrate here in Scotland from Svalbard, the famous Norwegian island near the North Pole.

After exploring the Caerlaverock Castle and the woodland, pop into their café. They serve a superb selection of soups and sandwiches.

Did you know : Caerlaverock was significantly damaged several times in the war between its Catholic owners and Protestant rulers of England.

It was featured in the 2011 romantic comedy, The Decoy Bride, which starred David Tenant and Kelly Macdonald.

• From Dumfries 20 min / 8.2 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour 42 min / 84.5 miles
• From Carlisle 45 min / 31.4 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Ride DGC bus 6a from Dumfries. Takes 22-34 minutes to reach the Road end bus stop.  

🚂 How to reach by Train – The nearest train station is Dumfries. Re

⏰ Opening Hours : Open daily. 1 April – 31 March, 10am to 4pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £6 and child £3.60.

14. Glamis Castle - One of the Most Haunted Places in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Located in the Scottish village of Glamis in Angus – 12 miles north of Scottish city, Dundee, this is one of the prettiest castles in Scotland. This is the childhood home of The Queen Mother and the birthplace of Queen Elizabeth II’s only sibling – Princess Margaret. It is the ancestral home of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne having over 1000 years of fascinating history.

You can visit Glamis on a day trip from Edinburgh .

What to see : Book a guided tour and learn fascinating stories about the castle steep in 1000 years of history. Step inside and marvel at the grandeur of the interiors. 

It boasts of having some gorgeous gardens and well-marked walking trails. The Walled Garden features a variety of lovely flowers, fruits and vegetables. The Italian Garden displays some beautiful geometric hedges. The Nature Trail next to the Italian Garden is a perfect way to commune with nature. You may be able to spot red squirrels, deer. Though all of them are beautiful, our favourite one is the Macbeth Trail which has amazing wooden arty sculptures to evoke the mood of Macbeth. 

The surrounding landscape gets more beautiful in spring with the dazzling display of daffodils all over the ground.

👻 Did You know? Glamis Castle is believed to be the inspiration behind Shakespeare’s masterpiece, Macbeth. It also has a reputation of being one of the most haunted buildings in Scotland.

Princess Margaret, the sibling of the present Queen, is the first royal to be born in Scotland after the 17 th century.

• From Dundee 26 min / 13 miles
• From Perth 45 min / 26.6 miles
• From Aberdeen 1 hour 10 min / 58.8 miles
• From Edinburgh 1 hour 40 min / 74 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour 45 min / 92.3 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – From Dundee 20 or 20c Stagecoach bus will take you to Forfar. From Forfar, catch the local bus service 125, operated by JP Coaches, to Glamis Castle.  

⏰ Opening Hours : Opening days seasonal. 10 am – 5 pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £15.50, Child £7.50

15. Kilchurn Castle - Best Picturesque Ruined Site in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Tucked away on the shore of Loch Awe, this is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Constructed in the 15th century by the Campbells of Glenorchy as a five-storied tower house, it was a power base of the Campbells for about 150 years. After the Campbells of Glenorchy relocated in Perthshire, it was converted to a garrison fortress. Kilchurn is now an incredibly beautiful, ruined castle amidst an astounding setting.

🌼What to See: This is one of the most photographed castles in the UK due to its stunning setting. Admire the view of this lochside castle with Ben Cruachan in the backdrop. Climb up the battlement and enjoy a stunning view over Loch Awe.

Also, look out for the engravings on the front door. Those are the initials of the 1st Earl of Breadalbane (IEB) and his wife, Countess Mary Campbell (CMC), dated in 1693. Also, visit the St Conan’s Kirk, not too far from the train station.

🌷Did You Know: Famous English painter, J W Turner, painted this castle in the 19th century. Sometimes, when the water level is high in Loch Awe, the building is not accessible, and you would have to admire the view from the distance.

⛰️Best Viewpoint : For the best view of the castle, pull off along A819 right across the loch. There is a small parking spot on the road. Walk down the field to the shore. Click here for the exact location.

• From Oban 40 min / 22.5 miles
• From Fort William 1 hour   20 min / 59.2 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour 45 min / 74.8 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour 25 min / 99.7 miles

🚂 How to reach by train  – The nearest train station is Loch Awe. Train from Glasgow to Oban stops here. From the station, walk 35 minutes to reach Kilchurn.

🚌   How to reach by bus – Scottish Citylink bus 975 from Glasgow to Oban and West Coast Motors bus 403 from Oban to Dalmally stops near the train station.

⏰ Opening Hours : Daily. 1 April to 30 September, 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Free

16. Braemar Castle, Aberdeenshire

🏰 Why you should visit: Located in the foothill of rugged Cairngorms Mountains in Aberdeenshire, this is one of the best historic castles in Scotland. It was originally built as a hunting lodge by the Earl of Mar in the 17 th century. Braemar has a turbulent Highland history of more than 400 years and played a prominent role during Jacobite Uprising. After the Government Garrison left in 1830, it became the family home of the Clan Farquharson.

📖 Read More: 15 Incredibly Awesome Things to do in Braemar, Scotland

🌷What to See: Braemar Castle is an L-shaped tower house surrounded by Curtain walls resembling a star. Step inside and learn about the riveting Highland history. You will get to see the personal belongings and memorabilia of the chiefs of Clan Farquharson. On three floors, there are about 12 rooms you can visit inside this tower house. This is currently run by local volunteers.

👑Brief History: After the Battle of Culloden in 1746, Braemar Castle housed a garrison of Government troops until 1830. The building was burnt down significantly by the Black Colonel, John Farquharson of Inverey (a staunch Jacobite) during the Jacobite Uprising.

The present form of the Braemar Gathering first started in 1832 at the ground of Braemar Castle and it was attended by Queen Victoria. Since 1906, the Braemar Gathering is held at Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park in Braemar.

• From Aberdeen 1 hour 30 min / 55.7 miles
• From Perth 1 hour 25 min / 50.6 miles
• From Aviemore 1 hour 30 min / 58.4 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour 15 min / 94.3 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Stagecoach bus 201 from Aberdeen bus station. Takes 2 hours 15 minutes.

⏰ Opening Hours : The Castle is currently closed for restoration, but the ground is open daily.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £8, child £4.

17. Floors Castle - A Grand Structure in South of Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Floors Castle is located just outside the vibrant market town, Kelso in Scottish Borders . Built in the early 18 th century by prominent Architect, William Adam, it is the seat of the Duke of Roxburghe. This historic building has an incredibly beautiful setting overlooking the River Tweed. It is considered a gem of Scottish Borders.

🌸What to See: Floors castle houses some of the finest paintings by Raeburn, Picasso. Step inside and marvel at the paintings, Gobelins tapestry, grand furniture, collections of porcelains.

Floors is famous for its gorgeous gardens. Stroll through the Victorian Walled Garden, which has a kitchen garden and glasshouses. Admire the French-style parterre in the Millennium Garden. From the raised terrace in the garden, you can find the intertwined initials of the 10th Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe.

🍁Things to do : Floors Castle and the Roxburgh estate offer some great opportunities for nature trails. If you are fond of walking, take the long route and walk by the River Tweed. You will get a stunning panoramic view.

👑 Did You Know : Floors is the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. Sir Walter Scott, 18th-century Scottish literary genius, was so impressed that he called it ‘a kingdom fit for Oberon and Titania to dwell in’.

📖 Read More: 12 Best Things to do in St Abbs, Scottish Borders

• From Edinburgh 1 hour 10 min / 43.6 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour 45 min / 88 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Catch Borders Bus 67 from Galashiels towards Kelso. Galashiels have regular train and bus service from Edinburgh.  

⏰ Opening Hours : 1st May – 30th September 10:30am – 5:00pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £15

18. Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye

🏰 Why you should visit: Nestled on the northwest shoreline of the Isle of Skye , this is one of the best castles in Scotland. Originally built in the 13th century, Dunvegan is the ancestral home of the chief of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. It is most famous for the Fairy Flag, which is claimed to have possessed many magical powers.

🌼What to See: There are many things to do and explore in Dunvegan Castle. The main attraction is the Fairy Flag. There are many interesting stories about this magical flag. It’s believed to be a gift from the faeries – mythical creatures found in Scottish folklore. Legend has it Fairy Flag has many magical powers, including its ability to multiply the number of men on the battlefield, bringing herring into the Loch Dunvegan.

One story goes that if it’s waved three times in a row, it may lose its magical power forever, even it may disappear. Fairy Flag was unfurled in Clan battles, and it’s believed to have brought victory in past centuries. Other treasured possessions are the Dunvegan Cup and Sir Rory Mor’s Horn.

Dunvegan Castle has a magnificent garden. Take a stroll and explore the water lily pond, Glass House, Memorial Gazebo. It lies on the shore of Loch Dunvegan, which has amazing wildlife.

📖 Read More: How to Spend a day in Elgol, Isle of Skye

👑For History Lovers: Dunvegan is one of the longest inhabited castles in Scotland. The Chiefs of Clan MacLeod has been living here for over 30 generations.        

During the Bombing mission in Second World War, Fairy Flag is believed to have brought luck to some members of the Clan, who carried a photo of the Flag in their pocket.

⛵Pro Tip: Take a cruise on the traditional clinker boats and see the Seal Colony. You would enjoy a marvellous view of the Outer Hebrides as well. Tour runs daily between 10 am and 5 pm and costs adults £10 and children £7. No advance booking is required.

• From Portree 32 min / 22.4 miles
• From Inverness 3 hour / 128 miles
• From Fort William 2 hour 50 min / 123 miles
• From Glasgow 5 hour 15 min / 230 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Limited stagecoach bus service 56 from Portree, Isle of Skye .

⏰ Opening Hours : Seasonal Opening. Daily 14 May – 15 October, 10am – 5.30pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Castle and Gardens- Adult £14.00, Child £9.00. Gardens only- Adult £12.00, Child £7.00

19. Doune Castle - A Popular Tourist Attraction in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit : Situated in the village of Doune in Stirlingshire, this is one of the historic buildings in Scotland. The present castle was built in the 1300s by Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany and the regent of Scotland. It is most famous for its portrayal as Winterfell in the super-popular fantasy drama, Game of Thrones.

You can easily add Doune with a trip to the beautiful city of Stirling.

🌹What to See: The most impressive part of this ruined castle is the Great Hall which is shaped like a cathedral. Inside the Duke’s Hall, there are Musician’s Gallery, a carved oak screen and a double fireplace. From the battlement, you would get to admire a spectacular view of the River Teith and the nearby mountains.

After visiting this medieval fortification, take a stroll along the banks of River Teith. You would get a stunning view.

💡Did You Know: Though Doune is most popular for its feature as Winterfell in Game of Thrones, many other films and TV series were filmed here including Outlander, Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Studies indicate that Doune Castle was much bigger than what we see today.

• From Perth 38 min / 33.6 miles
• From Stirling 15 min / 8.6 miles
• From Glasgow 40 min / 33.9 miles
• From Edinburgh 1 hour / 44.1 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Catch First Bus 59 from Stirling. The bus takes 27 minutes to reach Doune village. The castle is within walking distance from the bus stop.

⏰ Opening Hours : Daily. 1 April to 31 March, 10am – 4pm.

💰 Entrance fees : Adult £9 and child £5.40.

20. Blackness Castle, West Lothian

🏰 Why you should visit: Tucked away on the shore of the Firth of Forth, this is one of the popular castles in Scotland. Built in the 15th century by the powerful Crichton families, Blackness has the appearance of a stone ship. Some Say Blackness is ‘the ship that never sailed’. It offers one of the best views of the Forth Rail Bridge – an engineering marvel and one of the World Heritage sites in Scotland.

🌸What to See: Climb the towers and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Firth of Forth with the iconic Forth Rail Bridge in the backdrop. You would be able to know a great deal of history about how the castle was transformed from a royal residence to a garrison fortress, and then to a state prison. After visiting the Blackness Castle , take a stroll along the adjacent beach.

🍁Did You Know: Blackness was a state prison for many centuries. It was featured in the popular TV series, Outlander. This historic house was portrayed as Fort William headquarters in that historic drama.

• From Edinburgh 35 min / 16.4 miles
• From Glasgow 45 min / 39.5 miles
• From Stirling 30 min / 24.4 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – The Bo’ness Community Bus runs a minibus from central Edinburgh to Blackness. Bus F49 and C19.

⏰ Opening Hours : From 1 April to 23 December Daily except Friday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm. From 5 January to 31 March Daily except Friday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 More Historic Castles in Scotland

21. drummond castle, perthshire.

🏰 Why you should visit : Set in picturesque Perthshire, this castle is best known for its magnificent terraced garden. It was built as a tower house in the 15th century by 1st Lord Drummond. The garden was added in the 17th century. Drummond Castle Garden is one of the finest gardens in Europe.

🌳What to See: Marvel at the parterre of this beautifully adorned garden from the upper courtyard near the entrance of the garden. Admire the yew hedges and topiaries of this renaissance garden. There is a nice pond as well, where you can spot some ducks. Although the garden looks beautiful at any time of the year, it gets more spectacular in autumn when the colours pop up in the trees.

🌸Did You Know: Drummond Castle Garden was used in the popular TV Series, Outlander to portray the garden at the Palace of Versailles. The Garden was featured in the 1995 film, Rob Roy.

• From Perth 40 min / 23.6 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour / 45.5 miles
• From Edinburgh 1 hour 20 min / 55.7 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Stagecoach East Scotland bus from Perth.

⏰ Opening Hours : Open Daily 1pm – 6pm on Easter Weekend and then from 1st May until 31st October 1pm to 6pm.

💰 Entrance  fees : Adult £10, child £4, family £22.

22. St Andrews Castle - A Famous Medieval Landmark in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit : Unlike most of the other castles in Scotland, this was not built by any royals or clan chiefs. Rather, the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews resided in this historic building in the Middle Ages. Located at St Andrews on the east coast of Scotland, it was built around the 12th century, and many infamous events happened here during Scottish Reformation.

Also, St Andrews makes a great day trip choice from Edinburgh .

🌹What to See: Explore the medieval mine and counter-mine – underground passages built during the religious reformation of Scotland.  Peep into the bottle dungeons – this is one of the infamous medieval castle prisons in the whole of Britain.

Also, admire the Hamilton Façade. This was built by Archbishop John Hamilton in the 16th century, to give the damaged castle a new look. Lastly, soak up the view of this historic ruin sitting over a headland on the shore of the North Sea.

⚔️Did You Know: Protestant preacher ,  George Wishart was burnt alive here in the 16th century, and as an act of revenge, the protestants murdered Catholic Cardinal, David Beaton.  

• From Edinburgh 1 hour 25 min / 52.6 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour 40 min / 73.4 miles
• From Dundee 25 min / 13.7 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Catch Stagecoach bus X59 from Edinburgh bus station. The journey takes approximately 1 hr 55 min.

🚂 How to reach by train – The nearest train station is Leuchars, around six miles from the town. From Edinburgh, it takes approx 1 hour to reach Leuchars. There are regular Stagecoach buses from the station, and it takes 10 minutes to reach the town centre.

⏰ Opening Hours : Daily, 1 April to 30 September, 9.30am to 5pm and 1 October to 31 March, 10am to 4pm.

💰 Entrance  fees : Adult £9 and child £5.40.

23. Drumlanrig Castle, Dumfries & Galloway

🏰 Why you should visit : Set inside a 90,000-acre estate in Dumfries and Galloway, this is home to the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. Constructed in the 17th century, Drumlanrig castle is one of the finest Renaissance buildings in Scotland.

In the acclaimed television drama series Outlander, Drumlanrig was shown as the Duke of Sandringham’s estate.

🌺What to See: There are plenty of things to see and do in Drumlanrig. Book a castle tour and marvel at their collection of paintings (which include Rembrandt’s An Old Woman Reading, family portraits by Alan Ramsay), furniture and silvers.

Drumlanrig Castle lies inside the massive Queensberry Estate. There are some great biking and walking trails in this estate that are properly waymarked, and colour coded.

🌳Don’t miss – Don’t miss the Drumlanrig Sycamore. It is over 300 years old and the largest in the UK. This estate is famous for its wildlife as well. Keep your eyes peeled out for Red Squirrels, Roe Deer, Barn Owls. Also, there is an adventure playground for the younger visitors.

• From Edinburgh 1 hour 45 min / 64.4 miles
• From Glasgow 1 hour 15 min / 61 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Catch a Stagecoach bus from Dumfries town centre. It takes 31 minutes to reach the Drumlanrig Castle Road End bus stop. From there, it’s a 25 minutes walk. Dumfries has direct trains from Glasgow.

⏰ Opening Hours : Estate Walks, trails are open all year round. The castle is only open on special dates.

24. Castle Stalker - One of the Best Photo Locations in Scotland

🏰 Why you should visit: Standing on a small islet on Loch Laich in Argyll, this   was originally built in the 14th century by the chief of Clan MacDougall – the then Lords of Lorn. The ownership of the castle changed hands a few times, and Clan Campbell acquired it in the 17th century. Due to its stunning setting, this is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland.

📖 Read More: Best Things to Do in Fort William, Scotland

🌹What to See: To visit this ruined fortification, you will have to book a tour operated by a member of the Stewart Allward family – the present owner. The tour typically lasts about two hours, including the boat trip to the castle. Booking must be made in advance.

⛵Best viewpoint : One of the popular viewpoints is the Castle Stalker View Café. You would get a stunning panoramic view of Loch Linnhe and the surrounding landscape.

⛰️Did You Know: Campbells gained ownership of this historic site as a result of a drunken bet in 1620. It was featured in the 1975 British comedy film Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

• From Oban 28 min / 18.4 miles
• From Fort William 40 min / 25.5 miles
• From Glasgow 2 hour 30 min / 101 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – West Coast Motor and Citylink bus from Oban. Takes 38 minutes.

⏰ Opening Hours : Access to the castle is by tour only on specific days in summer.

💰 Entrance  fees : Adult £20, child £10.

25. Castle Fraser, Aberdeenshire

🏰 Why you should visit: Located in Inverurie in Aberdeenshire, this is one of the finest Z-Plan castles in Scotland. Originally built in the 16 th century by Michael Fraser – the 6 th Laird of Fraser, it went through several renovations and reconstructions over centuries.

🌻What to See: Inside the Fraser Castle , you would find several family portraits made by famous Scottish artists, including Raeburn. Also, you would get to admire many family furniture, ornaments and other collections. Look out for the hidden trapdoors and secret staircases as well. Also, visit the walled garden adjacent to the castle. There are some great walking opportunities in the huge estate encompassing building.

💡Did You Know? Castle Fraser is one of the largest tower houses in Scotland.

• From Aberdeen 32 min / 16.3 miles
• From Inverness 2 hour 15 min / 92 miles
• From Edinburgh 2 hour 35 min / 136 miles

🚌 How to reach by bus  – Not easily reachable by public transport. The nearest bus stop is at Inverurie Road End, which is approx 2-mile away from the castle. Bus 220, 421 passes through there.

Alternatively, take a train to Inverurie from Aberdeen. Then a local taxi to come here.

⏰ Opening Hours : Garden open daily, 10.00–16.00. Castle 30 Mar–1 Nov Mon–Sat 10.15–15.15, Sun 10.00–16.00. Guided tour only, 2 Nov–13 Dec Sat & Sun, 11.00, 12.00 and 13.00. Click here for up-to-date times.

💰 Entrance  fees : Adult £14.50

📍Map of 25 Best Castles in Scotland

Here is a map of 25 must-visit castles in Scotland. Click here to open in Google Maps.  Save the map on your phone. You can also use it offline.

Hope you have enjoyed reading our travel guide to 25 Best Castles in Scotland. 

Love, Moumita & Sankha.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Castles in Scotland You Need to Visit + Map”

Wow really enjoyed that Thank You

Very interesting, need to work my way round them.

Great information! I have been to Scotland once with a group and we only had the chance to see a few castles. Now…. I know I must return for another visit soon to see more castles. Thank you!

KELLIE CASTLE is an extraordinary ommision

At last l now live in Scotland and intend to see a lot of the castles mentioned. The map that has been created giving the locations and distances away from major cities is great. Can’t wait to start exploring this summer.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Castles to Visit in Scotland

Towering spires, thick stone walls and dramatic settings - whatever pops into your mind when you imagine a castle, you'll find it in Scotland. From magnificent city landmarks to mysterious ruins, our country is bursting with fascinating castles to visit in Scotland.

A couple exploring Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Learn more about famous castles to visit in Scotland

Find awe-inspiring well-known, medieval and ruined castles.

Stirling Castle

Famous Scottish castles

You don't have to be an avid castle hunter to know some of these famous fortresses. These castles have provided the backdrops for bloody battles or famous films, and are still frequented by Royals or used as family homes.

Castle Stalker on Loch Linnhe

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Medieval Castles

Many of Scotland's castles were built in the Medieval period or late Middle Ages. A few castles remain unchanged, whilst others have been modernised and re-designed. All medieval castles in Scotland are unique and were built depending on wealth and status at the time.

Dunnottar Castle

Ruined castles

Some of the castle ruins in Scotland date as far back as the 13th century. Crumbling ruins tell us tales of intense clan rivalries and invasions from near and far, each providing a little insight into Scottish life way back when.

Duart Castle

Island Castles

Scotland’s islands are home to some of the country’s most captivating castles. Choose from a diverse array of castles spanning everything from romantic, windswept ruins to extravagant pleasure palaces from the Victorian era.

Glamis Castle

Accessible castles

Euan’s Guide is an award-winning disabled access charity who manage EuansGuide.com, a disabled access review website.

Find more castles

Check out these ideas for days out to Scottish castles.

Sorry, something's gone wrong. We can't display this content at the moment.

JavaScript needs to be enabled to watch this video. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

12 Fairytale Castles in Scotland

Whisk yourself away to one of these enchanting castles for a fairytale escape.

Highland castles itinerary

See some of Scotland's most amazing castles as you tour the Highlands over four great days.

Scotland's Castle Trail

Discover the most famous and dramatic castles in the north east with our incredible 6-day itinerary.

Castle tours

Join a castle tour for an in-depth look at some of our most interesting Scottish castles.

What's New & Events

Find and book an event at a Scottish castle.

Castle of Light

See Scottish Castles in a New Light

Our castles make unique concert venues and hold exciting events.

Other ways to explore Scotland's castles

Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Perthshire

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Castle accommodation and weddings

Find a castle for an amazing overnight stay, or book one for your wedding.

Your castle photos

Cookies are needed to see social media images from this place.

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

See all of Scotland's castles

Find experiences.

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this product search form. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Other things you might like

Dream Barbie Pink Attractions

Holiday Ideas for Scotland

Experience Scotland like your ancestors

Wedding Venues in Scotland

Historic Attractions in Scotland

Victorian Heritage Trail

Scottish Architecture

Facing Our Past

Top Tips for Travelling to Scotland

The Best Tours of Scotland - Luxury & Scenic Tours

Historic Scotland | Alba Aosmhor

JavaScript is currently turned off in your browser

Without it, this website will not work properly. Please re-enable JavaScript in your browser's security settings.

Plan your Great Days Out!

We look forward to welcoming you to our castles, cathedrals and abbeys. Booking in advance is essential to guarantee entry at some of our busiest attractions, or those with limited capacities. To find out which sites are open and where you need to prebook, visit historyawaits.scot . 

You do not need your membership number to book.   Select the site you wish to visit. There will be an option to book member tickets. Select the tickets appropriate to your membership category and for the date/timeslot you require. You should include any children under 7 visiting with you on your booking. You will receive an email confirmation with your order number - take this with you (printed or on your phone) for your visit, along with valid membership card(s), or membership confirmation email.

Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently restricted or no visitor access to some of our sites. Find out more about our conservation work . Check for closures and our latest updates on visiting before you travel. For enquiries about tickets or ticketing issues, please contact [email protected] . 

Useful Resources

Members' handbook.

Your Members' Handbook is a comprehensive guide to all of our properties. View the Handbook online or download an accessible PDF [8MB]

Visitor App

Our free app is the easiest way to explore Scotland's most iconic historic attractions when you're on the move.  Find out more about the app .

Take your membership further

Take your membership card on holiday and enjoy discounted entry to attractions across the UK. Renewal and life members can enjoy free entry while first year members get in for half price.

Tickets to English Heritage and Cadw are advised to be pre-booked online in advance to guarantee entry. Visit Partnership Organisations for further information.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Attractions

14 Beautiful Castles in Scotland — From Cliffside Ruins to Present-day Royal Homes

These Scottish castles offer fascinating history, stunning architecture, and sweeping grounds.

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

It's estimated Scotland has more than 1,500 castles scattered across its rugged landscapes, with the earliest structures dating to the 12th century. While many stand in ruins, others have been restored and transformed into living museums that attract lovers of history, architecture, and manicured gardens. To top it off, many Scottish castles are perched on cliffs, hills, and other scenic vantage points with spectacular views.

From fairytale-like fortresses to historic homes that have served as filming locations for beloved movies and television shows, these are 14 of the most beautiful castles in Scotland. Note that many of these sites close seasonally, so check opening times before planning your visit.

Edinburgh Castle

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

Standing strategically atop a hill called Castle Rock in Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh Castle was home to royalty for centuries. The iconic landmark, which features buildings dating back to the 12th century, has served as a fortress, military base, and prison. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle is open daily to visitors (except on Christmas Day and Boxing Day). Go on a guided tour of the Great Hall and St. Margaret's Chapel, check out the National War Museum , and attend special events, from light shows and afternoon tea to concerts and holiday performances. Tickets often sell out during the summer months, so it's best to purchase them in advance on the castle's website .

Stirling Castle

One of the largest and most historically significant castles in Scottish history, Stirling Castle was the early childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. The castle dates back to the 12th century, but most remaining buildings are from the 15th century or later. In recent years, it served as a filming location for Game of Thrones and Outlander , among other shows. The castle is open year-round, and guided tours are included in the ticket price. Explore Renaissance-era spaces like the Great Hall, Royal Palace, and Great Kitchens, walk through the Queen Anne Gardens, and marvel at hard-carved medallions that once decorated the palace ceilings in the Stirling Heads Gallery. On a clear day, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and mountains from the castle walls.

Eilean Donan Castle

It's easy to see why Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Scottish Highlands. The medieval-style castle sits on an island overlooking the Isle of Skye, with the surrounding mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. The history of the original fortress, built in the 13th century, is a bit mysterious; it was attacked by English troops in the early 1700s and left to decay for the next 300 years. But the current version, reconstructed in the 1930s, has incorporated the ruins into its design. The castle has been the backdrop for many movies and serves as a spectacular wedding venue. Visitors can explore its artifacts and furnishings while appreciating the surrounding wildlife, including dolphins, otters, and porpoises. It's open to the public most days, but check the website for any closures before you visit.

Dunnottar Castle

Mandy Haakenson/Travel+Leisure

This cliff-top fortress stands in ruins on Scotland's northeast coast, but the stunning view alone is a reason to visit. Rich in Scottish history dating back to the Middle Ages, Dunnottar Castle was once besieged by Sir William Wallace (a knight and the protagonist of the fictionalized tale "Braveheart"), and in the 1600s, it famously served as the safest place to guard the Scottish crown jewels against Oliver Cromwell's invading English army. The castle is open daily to visitors, except on certain holidays or during bad storms. Comfortable footwear is suggested, as you'll need to climb more than 200 steps to reach the castle. Ambitious adventurers may want to venture to the breathtaking shoreline below.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is the Scottish holiday home of the British royal family and was a favorite respite of Queen Elizabeth II. Located near Braemar, one of the most charming small towns in Scotland , the property was purchased by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852. The original Balmoral Castle was deemed too small for the royal family, and the present-day version was completed in 1856. Through the years, successive generations have added to the 50,000-acre estate. Admission to the grounds is free on select dates , and Land Rover expedition tours are available to those interested in seeing the surrounding parklands and wildlife.

Glamis Castle

Pronounced "glams," Glamis Castle dates back to 1372 and is the family home of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Queen Elizabeth spent her early childhood at the castle, and her sister Princess Margaret was born there. Some believe the property may have inspired Shakespeare's "Macbeth," since the title character is the Thane of Glamis. Rumored to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland, ghost stories abound. Guided seasonal tours are available, and the property often hosts special events, including a Christmas market and the Strathmore Highland Games .

Culzean Castle

Designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century, the cliff-top Culzean Castle boasts more than 640 acres consisting of gardens, beaches, woods, trails, and two adventure playgrounds for kids. Guests can reserve the six-bedroom Eisenhower apartment on the top floor, which honors President Dwight D. Eisenhower for his role during World War II. The over-the-top interiors and impressive gardens are matched only by the gorgeous sunset views. The castle is open from April through October, and the park is open year-round.

Dunrobin Castle

Located in the Northern Highlands and visually similar to a Disney castle, Dunrobin offers spectacular views of the Moray Firth and Dornoch Bay. The majestic estate dates back to the 1300s and was once home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. Open to visitors from April through October, the grounds offer lots of outdoor space (including an impeccably manicured Victorian garden), beach access, and a cafe serving tasty treats. Self-guided tours are available, and a twice-daily falcon show is a fun bonus activity.

Craigievar Castle

Originally designed in the 17th century, Craigievar Castle in the hills of Aberdeenshire has undergone many renovations throughout the years, including a return to its original shade of pink in the early 2000s. Home to the area's noble Forbes family for over 300 years until it was turned over to the National Trust for Scotland in 1963, it's more of a tower house than a castle, with small rooms and narrow stairways. The property is currently closed until 2024 due to a conservation project, so check the website for reopening details.

Blair Castle

Showcasing more than 750 years of Scottish history, Blair Castle is rich in period furnishings and historical artifacts. Guests are captivated by its exquisite staterooms, Georgian staircase, and tapestry room. The extensive gardens and surrounding woodlands encompass the nine-acre Hercules Garden, landscaped ponds, statues, and an orchard. Tickets for self-guided tours are available from April to the end of October, and seasonal events are announced online .

Urquhart Castle

The ruins of Urquhart Castle sit proudly on the scenic shore of Loch Ness. Though much of the medieval fortress was destroyed during the Jacobite Risings , its remnants offer a peek into more than 1,000 years of history, during which the control of the castle ping-ponged between the Scots and English. The site welcomes visitors year-round, and many guests also enjoy the stunning views and beautifully manicured grounds. Myths of "Nessie," the Loch Ness Monster, date back to the 6th century, and sightings have been recorded as recently as the 1930s. Hoax or fact? Urquhart is the perfect spot to take in Scotland's gorgeous scenery and decide for yourself.

Cawdor Castle

Owned and operated by the Cawdor family since 1370, this Highland castle is referenced in William Shakespeare's tragedy "Macbeth." Spared from attack, Cawdor Castle is in very good original condition. Points of interest include the Drawing Room with its original fireplace and the Tapestry Bedroom, rich in 17th-century furnishings and wares. The historical gardens are especially enchanting in the spring. Like many other castles in Scotland, Cawdor Castle is open seasonally between April and October.

Dunvegan Castle

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

Set on the rocky shores of its namesake loch, Dunvegan Castle has been the ancestral home of the MacLeod family since the 13th century. Inside, you'll find paintings and heirlooms dating back to the 15th century. Surrounding the castle are five acres of spectacular gardens with waterfalls, streams, and even a children's play area. The MacLeod Tables Cafe provides tasty meals and snacks using fresh produce grown onsite. The property is open between April and October, and various tours are available. For an added treat, join one of the 25-minute seal-watching trips around Loch Dunvegan, offered seasonally on a first-come, first-served basis.

Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is the family home of the Duke of Argyll, whose lineage can be traced back to Colin, the first Earl of Argyll. The West Highland castle was built on the shores of Loch Fyne in the 1700s, and renovations throughout the years included the addition of the third floor and conical roofs on the corner towers. Inveraray Castle played the role of the fictional Scottish home "Duneagle Castle" in the 2012 Christmas episode of Downton Abbey . Several rooms, as well as the grounds, are typically open to visitors from April through October.

Related Articles

Sign Up Today

Start your 14 day free trial today

The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

The Most Striking Castles in Scotland

Nestled amongst scotland's stunning landscapes and historic cities are a number of grand castles. here's our pick of the best, from the domineering edinburgh castle to the picturesque dunrobin..

Lucy Davidson

26 aug 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

From the grand Edinburgh Castle and the historic Balmoral Castle, to the striking Stirling Castle and fairytale Dunrobin Castle, Scotland’s fortifications are wonderful sites to explore. While first-time visitors may just want to hit the highlights, for those who wish to delve deeper, other unique sites to explore such as such as Rothesay Castle, Craigmillar Castle, and Dumbarton Castle shouldn’t be missed. With so many fascinating places to explore, it’s not necessarily easy to select the very best castles of Scotland; however, we’ve painstakingly contemplated, deliberated, and meditated over this list and come up with our top recommendations as well as a few others worth exploring if you have the time.

1. Dunrobin Castle

One of Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited houses, Dunrobin Castle is the largest in the Northern Highlands as well as one of the most picturesque. The oldest sections of the castle still standing were probably built in the late 1300s and Pictish stones can also still be found on the site. The castle was remodelled at the beginning of the 18th century giving it the structure that we see today.

Resembling a French chateau, Dunrobin is the closest Scotland comes to ‘fairytale architecture’. The castle is open to the public between April and October and many of the 189 rooms are accessible, as are the exquisite 1,379-acre gardens, designed in the French formal style and modelled on the Palace of Versailles.

2. Caerlaverock Castle

Set in the heart of the picturesque Scottish countryside, Caerlaverock is an impressive a medieval fortress which stands out for its unique triangular design and picturesque location, ensuring it ranks among Scotland’s most remarkable castles. With its triangular shape and imposing moat, it conjures up images of battles yonder. And there were many; due to its strategic position near the English border, Caerlaverock was the site of on-going warfare between the two crowns.

Visitors can gain a lesson in siege warfare as well as viewing fascinating reconstructions of medieval siege engines. For the kids there even a castle-themed adventure park to provide extra entertainment!

3. Edinburgh Castle

A royal residence, a vital stronghold and an iconic structure, Edinburgh Castle is probably the most famous castle in Scotland. It initially became a royal castle in the Middle Ages and has since been the site of many significant events in royal and military history.

Today, visitors can explore the history of this iconic fortress through a series of guided tours and exhibitions. Amongst its many attractions are the Scottish National War Memorial and National War Museum, the Mons Meg and the Great Hall. Royal exhibitions include The Honours of Scotland jewels which, along with Scotland’s coronation stone, the Stone of Destiny, can be found in the castle’s Crown Room. Edinburgh Castle is also home to the oldest building in the city, the 12th-century St Margaret’s Chapel.

4. Glamis Castle

A stunning medieval fortification set in the beautiful Scottish countryside, Glamis has a fascinating history as well as a strong connection to the British royal family. The castle traces its roots back to the 14th century and was extensively renovated in the 17th and 18th centuries taking on the trappings of a French chateau and leaving much of what can be seen by visitors today.

Glamis  is steeped in history, with a number of fascinating stories, myths and legends associated with it mostly notably that it’s said to have provided inspiration for the setting in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The connection with the current royal family is more recent, with Glamis being the childhood home of Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Indeed it was here that Princess Margaret was born in 1930. As well as the castle itself, visitors can wander the scenic ornamental gardens and there’s a nature trail within the grounds, providing an opportunity to see the true beauty of the Scottish countryside.

5. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is an iconic royal palace and stronghold, seen to represent Scottish independence and a focal point for many of the most important events in Scotland’s history. It was the site of royal deaths, the subject of a tug of war during the Wars of Scottish Independence, and even the scene of an assassination.

During the Wars of Scottish Independence, the castle was fought over by some of the most famous figures in Scottish and English history, including William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. The current incarnation mostly dates from the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. Some of the highlights include the King’s Old Building, the Great Hall, and the Royal Palace. Visitors can tour with an audio guide or with a tour guide and there are a range of exhibitions to see.

6. Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle has been the official Highlands home of the British royal family since the reign of Queen Victoria. Having fallen in love with the Highlands after their first visit in 1842, it was in fact Queen Victoria and Prince Albert who built Balmoral Castle between 1853 and 1856.

Today, parts of Balmoral Castle and its grounds are open to the public, with audio guides available detailing the workings of the estate and its history. There are also a series of exhibitions at Balmoral Castle related to the royal family.

7. Tantallon Castle

The dramatic cliff-top ruins of Tantallon Castle are quite a sight and this once-powerful fortress is a popular draw with those who delight in picturesque history.

Originally the castle was an imposing medieval stronghold of the influential Douglas Earls for around three centuries. Indeed, Tantallon would survive numerous sieges and bore the scars of battle well, but ultimately met its fate when it was utterly devastated by the army of Oliver Cromwell in 1651.

8. Craigmillar Castle

Craigmillar Castle was built from the fourteenth century and is now a pretty and well-preserved medieval ruin. Visitors to Craigmillar can explore several aspects of the fourteenth century structure, including an impressive tower. There is also a maze of medieval tunnels which are fascinating to discover.

One of the most famed historical aspects of the castle is that it played host to Mary Queen of Scots when she was recovering from an illness. It is also the namesake of a pact between several noblemen to murder her husband, Lord Darnley.

9. Bothwell Castle

Bothwell Castle is a stunning ruined medieval stronghold near Glasgow and one of the most celebrated of its kind. It was subjected to several sieges through the centuries and was captured on several occasions. The most famous of these attacks occurred in 1301 when Edward I laid siege to Bothwell with a force of almost seven thousand men.

In 1362, Bothwell passed to the aristocratic Black Douglas family by marriage and they rebuilt it. Whilst not adhering to the structure of the Morays, the new castle was still formidable and parts of it – notably its chapel – can still be seen.

10. Hailes Castle

The pretty ruins of Hailes Castle date back to the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, making it one of the oldest of its kind in Scotland.

Free to enter at all reasonable times, it can be fun to explore the castle ruins and in particular view its two vaulted pit-prisons. It is also said that Mary Queen of Scots stayed here on several occasions.

11. Crichton Castle

Crichton Castle is a distinctive medieval castle built as the residence of the aristocratic Crichton family in the fourteenth century. It would later pass to the Earls of Bothwell.

For visitors to Crichton Castle, there is its impressive tower house, unusual facade and fifteenth century great hall.

12. Lochleven Castle

Lochleven Castle was a medieval island stronghold, the dramatic ruins of which can be reached by boat. Whilst being most well known for being the prison of Mary Queen of Scots, Lochleven Castle’s role within Scottish royal history extends far further. Many royals were guests – as opposed to prisoners – at Lochleven Castle, including King Robert Bruce and even Mary herself. What’s more, other royals were imprisoned at Lochleven Castle other than Mary Queen of Scots, particularly the (then future) Robert II. Mary was imprisoned at Lochleven Castle by Sir William Douglas from 1567 and forced to abdicate her throne in favour of James VI, her own infant son. She would escape within a year.

Today, visitors go to see the fourteenth to fifteenth century tower where Mary was held. Inside, you can still see where the kitchen and other spaces would have been.

13. Dirleton Castle

Dirleton Castle was an imposing medieval fortress and noble residence, which is now a picturesque ruin not far from Edinburgh. First built in the thirteenth century by royal steward John de Vaux, Dirleton Castle became the home of the de Vauxes, under whose ownership it was severely damaged and captured on several occasions in the Wars of Independence. Dirleton Castle would go on to become home to two further noble families, the Haliburtons (circa 1365) and the Ruthvens (circa 1510), each of whom made changes and additions. The Haliburtons left behind some fascinating ruins, including a chapel and an ominous dungeon.

The life of Dirleton Castle as a defensive structure ended in 1650, when it was devastated by the siege of Oliver Cromwell and it was abandoned altogether not long thereafter upon the demise of the Ruthven family. Now on land owned by the Nisbet family, Dirleton Castle offers a great deal to see. Amongst its highlights are its several towers, some of which were built in the 1240s, making them amongst Scotland’s oldest castle remains. Dirleton Castle is also home to one of the country’s best preserved pigeon houses.

14. Doune Castle

Close the Scotland’s geographical centre in the village of Doune in Perthshire, Doune Castle is a medieval castle with one of the best-preserved great halls in Scotland. It was originally built in the 13th century, most likely damaged during the Scottish Wars of Independence (1296 – 1357) and rebuilt in its present form in the late 14th century.

Ruined by 1800, restoration works were undertaken in the late 19th century and the castle was passed into state care a century later. The striking 29-m high gatehouse includes the Lord’s Hall with domestic quarters, an intricately carved oak screen, musician’s gallery and double fireplace. It’s labyrinthine in nature with rooms connected by spiral staircases and low, narrow doorways. The castle was used extensively in Monty Python and the Holy Grail as well as in Game of Thrones as Winterfell.

15. Rothesay Castle

Rothesay Castle was originally built by Walter, 3rd High Steward and ancestor of the royal Stewart line, in the thirteenth century. It was intended as a stronghold against the ongoing threat of Norwegian invasion and was taken by attackers from Norway in both 1230 and 1263.

In 1371, Rothesay Castle attained royal status as Robert II became the first king from the House of Stewart. It was renovated in the fifteenth century but then fell into disuse, eventually being restored in the nineteenth century.

16. Dunstaffnage Castle

Built from the 1220s, Dunstaffnage Castle is a medieval stronghold built by the MacDougall clan at a time when Scotland was under constant threat from Norwegian attack. During the Scottish Wars of Independence, Robert the Bruce laid siege to Dunstaffnage Castle, eventually taking it in 1309. As a result, it would remain in royal hands until the mid-fifteenth century, when it fell under the ownership of the aristocratic Campbell family.

One of the most famous aspects of Dunstaffnage Castle is the fact that it acted as a prison for Flora MacDonald in the eighteenth century. MacDonald was incarcerated there having tried to help the Bonnie Prince Charlie escape from the Red Coats by dressing him as a woman, although she would later be released. Visitors can see the place thought to have been where she was held.

17. Dumbarton Castle

Dumbarton Castle was a medieval stronghold which served as a wartime prison, a royal shelter and a defence against both foreign and national threats. Even the site upon which Dumbarton Castle sits -Dumbarton Rock – has an illustrious past. Little survives of the medieval castle – most of it is from the eighteenth century – but this is still a fascinating site to visit.

The building of the medieval Dumbarton Castle began in the 1220, amidst the danger of attacks from Norway. It was constructed under Alexander II of Scotland and was intended to protect the border. Once the Norwegian threat subsided, Dumbarton would go on to become a royal castle and to play a role in the Wars of Independence. In particular, it is believed that William Wallace was imprisoned here for a short time in 1305 before being taken to his execution in England.

The 8 best castles in Scotland

Aug 6, 2022 • 5 min read

These are the best castles in Scotland for fascinating history, beautiful architecture, rugged settings, royal heritage and gory stories © iStock / Getty Images

Scotland’s turbulent history of battles in the glens has bequeathed the country a magnificent selection of castles, with the added bonus of its rugged landscape.

Whether you roam the fortresses overlooking Edinburgh and Stirling  or seek out a romantic ruin amid the vast lochs and brooding mountains of the Scottish Highlands , inspiring historical adventures await. 

Explore royal history at Edinburgh Castle 

Perched atop the volcanic plug of Castle Rock, the Scottish capital’s crowning glory is a strong start to a tour of the best castles in Scotland. The history of Britain’s most besieged place goes back a thousand years, and the castle’s Georgian barracks proudly overlook the Princes Street Gardens that separate Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns.

Highlights include the firing of the One o’Clock Gun, a tradition dating to 1861, as well as James IV’s wooden-beamed Great Hall and the 16th-century Royal Palace. In the latter, don’t miss the chamber where Mary, Queen of Scots, gave birth to James VI, the first monarch of both Scotland and England.

Admire the lyrical setting of Eilean Donan Castle 

Eilean Donan often serves as a pin-up for the storybook romance of the Highlands, with its splendid location on a rocky islet at the meeting of three mountain-rimmed lochs. You’ll see its reconstructed medieval towers and turrets from the main road west to Skye, but it’s worth crossing the stone bridge to one of the finest castles in Scotland. 

Featured in films such as the James Bond flick The World Is Not Enough , it stood strong from the 13th century until 1719, when English men-of-war bombarded its 5m-thick (16ft) walls while besieging Spanish troops during the Jacobite uprisings. Inside, you can imagine yourself a Jacobite plotter on the battlements, peek through spy holes, hold a cannonball and wield a claymore – the hefty sword brandished by William Wallace in Braveheart .

Embark on a family-friendly historical adventure at Stirling Castle 

The Jacobite uprisings sought to restore the House of Stuart to the British throne, and you can follow those monarchs to their imposing fortress atop riverside Castle Hill. “He who holds Stirling, holds Scotland,” goes the old saying – and the castle has witnessed some 20 sieges and battles. 

The 18th-century pockmarks left by Bonnie Prince Charlie’s cannons are a small part of the building’s rich history, which you can discover on guided tours of James V’s Renaissance-style Royal Palace, the walled Queen Anne Gardens, the stone-floored Great Kitchens and more. Galleries display artifacts including the Stirling Heads, 16th-century oak medallions carved with royal portraits, and children love hearing historical yarns from staff in frilly period costumes.

Dunnottar Castle is one for drama queens (and kings)

This windblown relic atop the 49m-high (160ft) cliffs of a headland on the North Sea coast is unbeatable for sheer drama. A visitor center is planned, but for now, the medieval fortification is a place to absorb the romance of its scenic setting and long history, perhaps while approaching along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Path from nearby Stonehaven. 

William Wallace, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Charles II all passed through, but Dunnotar’s proudest moment was helping a small garrison safeguard the Scottish crown jewels (now on display at Edinburgh Castle) from Oliver Cromwell’s forces.

Explore the fairy-tale chateau of Dunrobin Castle

Like a wing of the Palace of Versailles transported to the Northern Highlands, the conical spires of this 189-room chateau overlook its formal gardens and the Moray Firth. The traditional seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, its stately rooms and corridors bring Downton Abbey to mind, with their stag heads, gilt-framed portraits and family-crest-emblazoned fireplace. 

There’s a tearoom, a museum, falconry displays and gardens laid out by Sir Charles Barry, architect of London’s Houses of Parliament. Open between April and October, the former naval hospital and boys’ boarding school has seven centuries of history, making it one of the UK’s longest continuously inhabited houses.

Channel the Bard at Cawdor Castle

One for actors who superstitiously refer to Macbeth as “the Scottish play,” this looming pile features in Shakespeare’s tragedy, when the protagonist fulfills the witches’ prophecy that he will become Thane of Cawdor.

The play’s 11th-century events predate the castle by a few centuries, but the fairy-tale rooms and gardens nonetheless offer many Scottish legends. Explore the walled garden and visit the medieval tower built around a lucky holly tree, which protected Cawdor through the Jacobite uprisings. 

Shakespearean completists should check out another glorious Highlands edifice, Glamis Castle , the setting for much of Macbeth  (and the late Queen Mother’s childhood home).

Tour Blair Castle, the last word in Scots Baronial architecture

You can tour 30 rooms of this whitewashed Scots Baronial masterpiece in the southern foothills of the Cairngorms, where the Atholl family left medieval, Georgian and Victorian imprints. Step into the wood-paneled entrance hall, adorned with muskets used at the Battle of Culloden, and wander the hushed rooms of furniture, china and lace, collected by 19 generations of adventurers, Jacobites and royalists. 

Stay in a cottage or shepherd’s hut to appreciate the landscaped grounds, where peacocks and red squirrels inhabit the 3.6 hectare (9 acre) walled garden, woodland grove, deer park and sculpture trail. The estate is home to both sustainability schemes and Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders, which guarded Queen Victoria during her stay at the castle . 

For a Cairngorms castle crawl, gallop northeast to 17th-century Braemar Castle (reopening after renovations in July 2023) and the royal-owned Balmoral Castle , where the ballroom and gardens open to the public between April and August.

See the towers and turrets of Inveraray Castle

Loch Fyne in the Western Highlands is famous for both oysters and this pearl of a Scottish ancestral seat , its tubular towers crowned with witch’s-hat spires.

Behind the arched windows in its granite-gray facade, the ornate interiors include the 18th-century drawing room’s painted ceiling and French Beauvais tapestries, the opulent State Dining Room and the Armoury Hall with some 1300 weapons. Head "below stairs" to the tearoom and old kitchen, explore the grounds on a 1.5-mile woodland walk and overnight in one of the estate’s cottages.

Explore related stories

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Wondering where to go in Scotland? Here are 14 of the best places to visit, from cities and grand castles to wild glens and Britain’s best driving route.

Aug 12, 2022 • 8 min read

Dec 28, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Jun 3, 2023 • 4 min read

May 26, 2023 • 5 min read

May 17, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 7, 2022 • 5 min read

Aug 3, 2022 • 7 min read

Jul 25, 2022 • 8 min read

• Jump to main content
• Jump to main navigation

We use necessary cookies to make our site work. We'd also like to set optional analytics cookies to help us improve it. We won't set optional cookies unless you enable them or accept our recommended settings. Using this tool will set a cookie on your device to remember your preferences.

Your preferences have been set. If you wish to change your preferences, you may do so on our cookies page .

Looking for places? Use our place search to find them by name, town or postcode.

• things to do

Castles in Scotland

Some of the most recognisable castles in Scotland are in our care. Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of Jacobites, feasting your eyes on priceless collections, learning about Scotland’s architectural heritage, or admiring the spectacular gardens, visiting one of our castles is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Scottish culture and history.

Aberdeenshire castles

Castle fraser.

The core of Castle Fraser, one of the grandest tower houses in Scotland, may date back to the 1450s. In the 16th century, successive generations of the Fraser family made additions to the castle and built it up into a huge fortified structure. For over 400 years, the lairds filled it with an extensive collection of portraits and mementos that show how tastes and fashions have changed over the centuries.

Did you know?

There are lots of secret spaces in Castle Fraser, including the laird’s lug – a tiny hideaway that spies and the laird himself used to eavesdrop on visitors in the Great Hall.

Craigievar Castle

This iconic tower house is famous for its pink walls and fairytale feel – rumour has it that it was an inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella castle. Construction began around 1576, and it’s a fine example of the Scottish Baronial style. Much of the exterior remains almost unchanged since around 1626.

Early in 2019 a volunteer at Craigievar discovered a heavy studded oak door in one of the castle’s barmkin buildings – we think it’s the original front door to the castle and possibly the oldest door in our care.

Drum Castle

Given to the Irvine family by Robert the Bruce, and with links to the Jacobites (the castle’s 17th laird fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie at Culloden ), Drum Castle is steeped in Scottish history. There are tales to discover outside, too, where the Garden of Historic Roses shows which roses were available for cultivation from the 17th to the 20th century.

The castle’s famous Victorian library, which is home to over 4,000 rare books, also has a secret network of chambers concealed behind its bookcases.

Fyvie Castle

With almost 800 years of history, Fyvie Castle gives you a great sense of what life in auld Scotland was like. This magnificent fortress is now a fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture, with carved sandstone exteriors that hint at the castle’s lavish interiors. Here you’ll find world-famous oil paintings and impressive suits of armour.

High up on the exterior walls at Fyvie Castle, you might spot a number of stone ‘guardians’, ranging from musicians and sportsmen to fantastic beasts.

Iconic Castles

Culzean castle.

The former home of the 10th Earl of Cassillis (a man who really liked to show off his wealth), Culzean Castle is a place of outlandish opulence. Perched on the Ayrshire cliffs, it was designed for one of Scotland’s oldest families – the Culzean Kennedys – by Robert Adam, the top Scottish architect of his day. From the famous Oval Staircase, to the vast collection of pistols and swords on display, to the expansive surrounding parkland and manicured gardens, there are lots of reasons why it’s one of the best castles in Scotland.

General Dwight D Eisenhower used the top floor of Culzean Castle as his family’s holiday home for more than 20 years.

Brodick Castle

As revered for its setting as much as its history, Brodick Castle stands proud on the Isle of Arran, surrounded by many of the things that Scotland is known for – mountains, water, woodland and wildlife. The current castle, filled with Victorian artefacts and trophies (as well as a traditional arcade), was built in 1844, but the seat dates back centuries as a strategic fortress.

In the gardens at Brodick you’ll find a reconstructed Bronze Age roundhouse that helps us show visitors how communities once lived in ancient Scotland.

Brodie Castle

The different sections of Brodie Castle – the 16th-century guard chamber, the cosy 17th-century wing, and the sprawling Victorian extension – show how the castle’s purpose changed over time. More recently, it’s become one of the best places in Scotland to see daffodils, which were the favourite flower of the castle’s 24th laird, Ian Brodie. There are more than 400 varieties in the grounds, many of which he bred himself.

Brodie Castle is now home to Scotland’s biggest bunny sculpture. It’s part of our Playful Garden , where children can play and learn as they explore the castle’s rich history in a different way.

Kellie Castle

Part-medieval castle, part-Victorian home, the oldest sections of Kellie Castle date back to the 14th century, but the elaborate interiors were installed by the Lorimer family in the late 1800s. The Lorimers were an artistic family, and the castle is home to stunning ornamental ceilings, exquisite furniture, intricate murals and traditional Scottish walled garden.

A mural above the fireplace in the Drawing Room was painted in 1897 by Phoebe Anna Traquair, one of the most famous Arts & Crafts artists.

Alloa Tower

The largest surviving keep in Scotland seems bold and forbidding from the outside, but inside Alloa Tower is a treasure house of art and riches. It’s also home to a fascinating history, including tales of the Erskine family and their involvement in the Jacobite cause. Both Mary, Queen of Scots and her son James VI spent time at the castle as children.

There’s a medieval pit dungeon at Alloa Tower that is probably the oldest part of the building – dare you take a peek?!

Scottish Palaces

Falkland palace.

One of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland, Falkland Palace was inspired by the grand châteaux in France. It was brought to life by James IV and James V in the early 16th century and was a favourite retreat for the Stuart kings and queens, with its splendid gardens and royal chapel. In the 19th century it was on the verge of ruin, but was saved by the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

Mary, Queen of Scots adored Falkland. She spent her time there hunting, enjoying falconry and playing a spot of tennis on what is now the oldest real (or royal) tennis court in the world.

Culross Palace

Although not a royal palace, this impressive house definitely aspires to it! Built for merchant and engineer Sir George Bruce around the start of the 17th century, Culross Palace is painted in an eye-catching ochre colour, making it really stand out among the white-harled buildings of the historic Culross burgh. The small living spaces and fascinating painted ceilings inside offer a fascinating glimpse into 17th- and 18th-century life.

Culross Palace and other parts of the burgh have been used for filming on the hit TV series Outlander . Can you spot Jamie and Claire in the Withdrawing Room?

Search for Castles in Scotland near you

This property is currently closed.

Edinburgh Castle Defender of the Nation

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city, it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away.

Plan your visit

Tickets often sell out in advance. Book your tickets online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry.

Open from 9.30am daily.

The castle is in Edinburgh City Centre, reachable by bus, tram and train.

We are open

Tickets often sell out in advance. Book your tickets online in advance for best price and to guarantee entry.

Afternoon Tea Experience

Indulge yourself or treat a loved one to an afternoon tea experience, which also includes admission to the castle

Spring Sale Now On!

Shop our online (and instore) sale for great savings on a selection of items (only while stocks last).

Things to see and do at the castle

There are many ways to experience Edinburgh Castle. Go straight to an exciting part, follow an itinerary, or allow an audio guide to show you around.

Tours, guides and itineraries

The background of the castle.

Discover some highlights of a visit to Edinburgh Castle, from the Royal Palace and Honours of Scotland to Mons Meg and the Scottish National War Memorial.

The Characters

Hire a venue at the castle

Edinburgh Castle is a fitting backdrop to unforgettable corporate events and private dining experiences, the setting of exquisite weddings and civil ceremonies or the finest hospitality before the world-famous Military Tattoo.

• Advertise with us

• History Magazine
• Destinations UK

Castles in Scotland

Browse our interactive map of castles in Scotland, unique to Historic UK.

Ben Johnson

Scotland is world famous for its castles, not just because so many are immaculately preserved but also because many are set against some of the most breathtaking scenery in Britain. From Muness, the most northerly castle in the United Kingdom on the Shetland Islands, to Edinburgh Castle with its fabulous Scottish Crown Jewels , we’ve scoured the country to bring you one of the most complete lists of castles in Scotland on the internet.

To get the most out of our interactive map, please select the ‘Satellite’ option below; which in our opinion, allows you to more fully appreciate the castle and its defences from above.

Oh, and if you are planning a trip to Scotland but are short on time, you may be interested to know that Aberdeenshire has more castles per hectare than anywhere else in the UK!

Looking to stay in one of these fabulous castles? We list some of the country's finest accommodation on our castle hotels in Scotland page .

Highland Tours Featuring Castles

Have we missed something.

Although we've tried our hardest to list every castle in Scotland, we're almost positive that a few have slipped through our net... that's where you come in!

If you've noticed a site that we've missed, please help us out by filling in the form below. If you include your name we'll be sure to credit you on the website.

• Name of Destination *
• Description Please tell us a little bit about the attraction, site or destination that we have missed. (Not required)

History in your inbox

Sign up for monthly updates

Advertisement

Next article.

Castles in England

Browse our huge database of castles in England, from the world famous Warwick Castle to the lesser known motte and bailey castles scattered across the country.

Popular searches

• Castle Hotels
• Coastal Cottages
• Cottages with Pools
• Kings and Queens

40+ ancient ruins, palaces, standing stones and castles in Scotland to visit

By: Author [email protected]

Love history? Then you will love Scotland – there are hundreds of castles in Scotland to visit, alongside palaces, abbeys, and ancient ruins. Whether you love mediaeval battles and ancient fortresses or wishing you could travel through 1000-year old standing stones, want to hunt down the Bonnie Prince or stroll through Edinburgh’s Georgian grandeur, here are 40+ of my favourite historical landmarks and castles in Scotland to visit.

Why not stay in a Castle in Scotland?

Scotland castles – the West Coast, the Hebridean Islands and Scottish highlands castles

Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie – located on a small island where three lochs, Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh, converge, Eilean Donan is probably the most fairy-tale of all the castles in Scotland to visit with its iconic bridge – this is one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks. 

Iona Abbey, Isle of Iona – located on the Isle of Iona, the Abbey holds immense religious significance as a centre of Christianity in Scotland.

Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye – As the oldest continuously inhabited of the castles to visit in Scotland, Dunvegan Castle has been home to generations of the Clan MacLeod. The castle has lovely gardens on the lochside, and lots of stories to hear – including the legend of the Fairy Flag. Visit the Isle of Skye.

Callanish Stones, Isle of Lewis – a mysterious and awe-inspiring stone circle, The Callanish Stones have captivated visitors to Lewis’s imagination for centuries. Their precise purpose remains unknown, making them all the more fascinating! Visit the Outer Hebrides .

Ardvreck Castle, Loch Assynt – Sitting on the banks of Loch Assynt sits the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, once the 15th-century stronghold of Clan MacLeod, longtime owners of the Isle of Skye and the Isle of Lewis and Harris. Ardvreck Castle is a popular stop on the North Coast 500 .

Inveraray Castle, Inveraray –  Sitting on Loch Fyne, Inveraray Castle has been home to generations of Clan Campbell and the Dukes of Argyll. Replacing a 15th tower house, Inveraray Castle took 43 years to complete, the castle was designed by celebrated Scottish architect William Adam and finished by his sons James and Robert Adam. Visit Inveraray Castle for booking information. Visit Inveraray .

Edinburgh castles to visit (& a palace)

Edinburgh Castle – Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle reigns supreme over the city’s skyline. Probably the most famous of the castles to visit in Scotland (and maybe in the world) this iconic fortress guards the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Inside the castle is a town in itself and the view is incredible. Why not book a skip the lines tour, try this walking tour of Edinburgh Castle or this guided tour of Edinburgh Castle . 

Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh – just a short distance from Edinburgh, is Craigmillar Castle, a well-preserved mediaeval fortress and Edinburgh’s second most famous castle! Built in the late 14th century, Craigmillar Castle was originally intended as a residence for the Preston family. Today, Craigmillar Castle is maintained by Historic Environment Scotland and is open to the public. Visit Craigmillar Castle .

Palace of Holyroodhouse – Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, offers visitors a glimpse into royal life and the splendid State Apartments. Outside in the grounds, visit the ruins of Holyrood Abbey. Visit Holyrood Palace .

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh – Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town are a World Heritage Site. The Old Town is full of historical landmarks, including the Royal Mile, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and Mary Kings’s Close. Cross Princes Street to explore the New Town’s beautiful Georgian streets and crescents. Why not explore on a Royal Mile walking tour ?

More things to do in Edinburgh .

Castles in Scotland – Stirling and Central Scotland and castles near Glasgow

Stirling Castle – standing proudly on a volcanic crag overlooking the town, Stirling Castle dates back to the 12th century and was once the residence of Scottish kings and queens, with a Royal Palace and a historic Great Hall. The castle witnessed numerous battles and sieges, becoming a key battleground during the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 13th and 14th centuries. 

Take a tour of Stirling Castle on a day tour of Scotland to Loch Lomond and the Kelpies! Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore, Stirling is one of the most intact castles in Scotland to visit.

Stirling Palace – located within the grounds of Stirling Castle , Stirling Palace once served as the royal residence. You can visit the King’s and Queen’s Chambers, decorated with elaborate carvings and ornate furnishings. Guided tours, led by costumed interpreters, provide an immersive experience, bringing the past to life with stories of royalty, battles, and everyday life within the castle walls. 

Doune Castle – Nestled at the confluence of the River Teith and Ardoch Burn, Doune Castle is a magnificent mediaeval fortress. You might recognise Doune Castle as a famous filming location for movies and TV series, including “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” and “Outlander.” You can take a tour of the castle with an audio guide narrated by the actor Terry Jones, one of the members of Monty Python.

If you love Outlander you can explore Doune Castle on a 1 day Outlander tour from Edinburgh .

Linlithgow Palace – The birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and later the birthplace of her son, James VI of Scotland and James I of England, the palace was originally built in the 15th century by James I of Scotland. Visit Linlithgow Palace on a day trip from Edinburgh .

Blackness Castle – known as “the ship that never sailed” due to its ship-like appearance, served as a fortress and prison. Standing on the shore of the Firth of Forth, Blackness Castle was built in the 15th century by the powerful Crichton family, and has been featured in several television shows and movies, including Outlander, where it doubled as Fort William.

Castles in Scotland – Inverness, Loch Ness and the Moray Firth 

Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness. On the banks of the Loch Ness , Urquhart Castle is one of the largest castles in Scotland to visit. The Grant Tower, the largest surviving structure, is the centrepiece of Urquhart Castle and has a fantastic view of the loch – why not try and spot Nessie. Entry to the castle is £9 for adults or free with an Explorer Pass . 

Cawdor Castle, Nairn – immortalised in Shakespeare’s Macbeth – in the play, the character Macbeth becomes the Thane of Cawdor after encountering three witches who prophesy his rise to power. Cawdor Castle is privately owned and still serves as the family home of the Cawdor family. Cross Cawdor’s drawbridge to explore the elegant interiors and then visit the castle’s lovely gardens.

Fort George, Ardersier – an impressive military fortress, still in use by the British Army. Its walls enclose a vast space that showcases Scotland’s military heritage and offers great views of the Moray Firth.

Fort Augustus, Loch Ness – a picturesque village on the shores of Loch Ness, is known for its historic fort and impressive Caledonian Canal locks – sit on the canal banks with a drink from one of the many cafes and pubs and watch the boats go down the locks out on loch.

Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre ,  Inverness  – the site of the most famous and final battle of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Explore the interactive exhibits and walk the battlefield to experience its historical significance. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, a visit to Culloden is sobering and stark. More places in Scotland to visit if you love the Jacobites (or Outlander)

What are the best castles in Scotland to visit?

These are my favourite castles in Scotland to visit:

• Edinburgh Castle – the grand dame of them all in the heart of the capital of Scotland
• Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye – a fabulously intact castle in a beautiful location on Skye.
• Ardvreck Castle, Loch Assynt – a favourite stop on the North Coast 500
• Stirling Castle – with excellent guided tours, a great place to learn about Scottish history
• Doune Castle – a must if you are an Outlander fan
• Blackness Castle – the ship that never sailed on the River Forth
• Urquhart Castle – spot Nessie from this huge castle on Loch Ness.
• Eilean Donan Castle – don’t miss Scotland’s iconic castle
• Balmoral Castle – the home of the Royal Family in Scotland, explore the estate to find the Balmoral Castle
• Dunnottar Castle – our most ‘Game of Thrones’ style castle
• Culzean Castle – an icon of Aryshire
• Tantallon Castle – East Lothian’s seaside fortress

Castle tours in Scotland

Looking for a Scottish castle tour? Here are the best castle tours in Scotland:

• Edinburgh Castle – book this skip the line walking tour of Edinburgh Castle
• Eliean Donan Castle – Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip
• Stirling Castle – From Glasgow: Loch Lomond, Trossachs & Stirling Castle Tour
• Kilchurn Castle – From Glasgow: Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles Tour
• Outlander castle tour – 1 Day Experience from Edinburgh

Scottish castles to visit in Aberdeenshire and Angus

Balmoral Castle, Ballater – the Scottish residence of the British royal family in the Cairngorms National Park. Balmoral Castle ‘s history dates back to the early 19th century when it was purchased by Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, as a retreat for the royal family. The original castle on the estate was replaced with a new castle in the Scottish Baronial style, completed in 1856. 

Balmoral Castle’s interior is not open to the public while it is occupied by the royal family, however, the castle estate is open all year round, including the famous Balmoral cairns. One of the most royal of all the castles in Scotland to visit!

Glamis Castle, Angus – has been the ancestral seat of the Lyon family for over six centuries and was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. Glamis is famous as one of the most haunted Scottish castles for its numerous ghostly legends and is believed to be haunted by several spirits, including that of the “Grey Lady,” said to be the ghost of Lady Janet Douglas, who was accused of witchcraft and burned at the stake.

Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven – perched precariously on a rocky headland, is a sight to behold. Its romantic ruins, combined with its rich history of sieges and bravery, make it one of the most iconic Scotland castles.

One of the most notable events in Dunnottar Castle’s history occurred in 1651 during the English Civil War. The castle was besieged by Cromwell’s army, and it famously held out against the forces for eight months. The defenders’ resilience and determination earned them the nickname “The Whigs’ Vault” and became a symbol of Scottish resistance. Visit Dunnottar Castle.

Scottish castles to visit in Fife and Perthshire 

St. Andrews Castle , St. Andrews – perched on the cliffs overlooking the North Sea, St. Andrews Castle has one of the dramatic locations of the castles in Scotland to visit. Once a grand and formidable fortress, its ruins now offer visitors insights into its troubled history, including the Siege of St. Andrew s.

Culross , West Fife – The charming village of Culross is a well-preserved time capsule, with cobbled streets and traditional architecture. Culross’s history dates back to when it was an important trading and industrial centre, thriving on coal mining, salt production, and trade with the Low Countries. Explore the quaint lanes and visit Culross Palace. Culross also appeared in the TV series Outlander, appearing as the fictional village of Cranesmuir. Vist Culross . 

Falkland Palace , Falkland – in the charming village of Falkland, this palace has lovely gardens and a real tennis court, built in 1539, which is one of the oldest in the world.

Scone Palace , Perth – on the banks of the River Tay, Scone Palace is a magnificent stately home, and the coronation site of Scottish kings who were crowned and inaugurated on the Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny. The current Scone Palace was built in the early 19th century and has state rooms, filled with fine art with The Long Gallery featuring a collection of impressive portraits.

The palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, including the vast David Douglas Pinetum, which showcases a diverse range of conifer species from around the world. The grounds also include the Murray Star Maze, where you can get lost in a labyrinth of hedges.

Scottish castles to visit in Ayrshire

Culzean Castle, Maybole – Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde, Culzean Castle was designed by Robert Adam. The name “Culzean” is derived from the Gaelic “Cùilfhionn,” meaning “nook of the white dog,” which is believed to refer to the castle’s location on a rocky headland. Culzean Castle’s Swan Pond, designed to resemble a ship’s hull, is a tribute to the Ailsa Craig granite, which was used to make curling stones for the sport of curling.

Castles to visit in Midlothian and East Lothian

Tantallon Castle, North Berwick – Tantallon Castle is a formidable stronghold overlooking the North Sea. Sitting on a dramatic cliff face just south of North Berwick in East Lothian, Tantallon Castle dates from the 1300s and having weathered three sieges, the castle is Scotland’s last great surviving of the mediaeval castles in Scotland to visit.

Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin – made famous by Dan Brown’s novel “The Da Vinci Code,” Rosslyn Chapel is an architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate carvings and enigmatic symbols.

Orkney 

Skara Brae – a prehistoric village dating back to 3180 BC, Skara Brae is older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of Neolithic inhabitants.

St. Magnus Cathedral – a masterpiece of mediaeval architecture, dominating the skyline of Kirkwall. Its intricate carvings and serene interior make it a serene sanctuary steeped in history.

Visit Orkney to walk around the Ring of Brodgar – and wonder at how they built it, ind out the story behind the beautiful Italian Chapel and Climb up to the Kitchener Memorial above 100m cliffs filled with seabirds.

Scottish castles in Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders 

Caerlaverock Castle – a unique triangular fortress, Caerlaverock Castle is surrounded by a moat, set amidst the pretty Dumfries countryside. The surrounding wetlands of the Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve attract a wide variety of bird species, including geese, swans, and other waterfowl. Visit Dumfries and Galloway .

Melrose Abbey – a beautiful Cistercian monastery ruin, with intricate stonework and the burial place of the embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce!

Jedburgh Abbey – dating back to the 12th century when it was founded by King David I of Scotland as a house of Augustinian canons, the abbey quickly became a prominent religious centre and played a significant role in the region’s spiritual and cultural life. The ruins of Jedburgh Abbey are a great example of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture.

Visit the Scottish Borders.

Castles in scotland map

Find your favourite Scottish castle on my map of Castles in Scotland to visit:

How many castles are there in Scotland?

There are around 2000 castles in Scotland to visit.

What is the oldest castle in Scotland?

The oldest castle in Scotland is thought to be Castle Sween on Loch Sween, in Knapdale, Argyll. The castle was built in the late 11th century by Clan Suibhne (pronounced Sween)

What are the most famous castles in Scotland?

The most famous castles in Scotland are:

• Edinburgh Castle – no reason necessary!
• Doune Castle, Stirling – appears in hit TV series Outlander, alongside Midhope Castle near South Queensferry. Doune Castle also makes an appearance in Game of Thrones and Outlaw King.
• Eilean Donan, Dornie – the classic picture perfect castle in Scotland. Eilean Donan appears in the movie Highlander.
• Dunottar Castle, Stonehaven – the closest you will get to a Game of Thrones castle in Scotland.
• Blackness Castle, Falkirk – appears in Braveheart and stands in for Fort William in Outlander
• Culzean Castle, Ayrshire – home of Lord Summerisle in the Wickerman

Love, from Scotland x

The travel blogger and photographer behind Love from Scotland

10 spectacular Scottish castles that everyone should visit

Scotland’s castles deliver drama, history – and even the chance to stay the night. Now is the perfect time to visit

As integral to the landscape as its lochs and glens, Scotland ’s castles rank among the most striking and visited in the world – icons of the land’s historic fighting spirit, retelling centuries of clan warfare and bloody sieges by invading English armies.

It is estimated there were once up to 3,000 of them dotted throughout the highlands and ­lowlands, and about half of them survive today – many in ruins, though their massive craggy walls and battlements are all the more dramatic etched against spectacular settings of hills and lochs .

And now, as autumn arrives, is the time to ­experience them. In late September and early ­October, the dreaded midges – and most of the crowds – have gone, the days are still long, the weather is still mild, and autumn colours begin to suffuse their ramparts in a glorious farewell to ­summer. The bellowing of red deer stag and the clashing of antlers fills the air as rutting season (early September until late November) gets into full swing. 

Wander among the gaunt remnants and it is easy to imagine echoes of merriment from banquets in great halls, and the clash of arms of kilted warriors on the parapets. Among the most atmospheric symbols of Scotland’s turbulent past, each one is a time machine transporting us to the eras of heroes Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, to a place of legends of ghosts, monsters, dragons and wizards.

Many of Scotland’s castles have been preserved and restored as private dwellings and public attractions; a few have been converted into luxury hotels allowing guests to live like clan chiefs of old; and some even allow camping in extensive grounds and stage open-air plays and musical and arts festivals.

To make the most of them in a single trip, the best approach is to select a few and plan a route around them, taking time to enjoy wonderful ­vistas along the way (as well as local highland games, if you’re lucky).

For a taste of the most ­dramatic options on offer, we suggest including as many of the following 10 as possible – a rundown that includes clan strongholds and baronial redoubts from Edinburgh to Braemar, each one suffused with dramas all its own. 

So pack your bags, choose your route, and start exploring – just beware of ghostly pipers.

Edinburgh Castle

Let’s start with the undisputed laird and master of all. Perched on a craggy extinct volcano high above Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Castle (tickets from £15.50) dominates the skyline like a Disney fantasy.

A mighty symbol of Scottish freedom, it has been virtually impregnable in centuries of warfare. Besieged 23 times – making it the most besieged place in Europe – it fell only twice: to Covenanters and to Cromwell’s army.

Dating from the 15th century, its treasures include the Honours (Crown Jewels) of Scotland, consisting of the crown, sceptre and sword of state. Don’t miss the Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of Scotland’s ­monarchy used for centuries for the inauguration of kings.

It was here that Mary Queen of Scots gave birth in 1566 to her son and future king, James VI, who became King James I of England, and visitors can see both her bedchamber and the birth room, called simply Queen Mary’s room.

A spectacular highlight is the three-week-long annual military tattoo in August, when marching bands from all over the world fill night skies with the stirring skirl of pipes and drums and an array of traditional instruments (edintattoo.co.uk).

Beyond the castle walls, meander through the atmospheric old town, which has preserved much of its medieval street plan, and stroll along the Royal Mile that runs down from the castle to Holyrood Palace.

Where to stay : The Scotsman Hotel (0131 556 5565) has doubles from £305 per night

Stirling Castle

One of the country’s most historically important sites, Stirling Castle (tickets from £10) was the favoured residence of Stewart kings and queens, who came in times of peace to hold court and enjoy hunting and grand celebrations. It was here the infant Mary, just nine months old, was crowned Queen of Scots in 1543.

Like its big brother in Edinburgh, the castle sits atop a vast volcanic rock above a charming old town. During the Wars of Independence, it changed hands eight times in half a century, and the battles of Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn were fought within sight of its walls.

Dastardly deeds took place here, notably the murder of the Earl of Douglas by James IV.

Today you can meet costumed ­characters in the roles of bodyguard, court official, maid of honour and ­servant, and performers who bring ­history to life in beautiful gardens. Highlights include the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal where Mary was crowned, and a Regimental Museum.

While in the area visit the monument to William Wallace, a huge tower ­overlooking the site of the Battle of ­Stirling Bridge, and take a Bannockburn Battle tour. 

Where to stay: The Stirling Highland Hotel (01786 272 727) has rooms from £110 per night

Glamis Castle

The Thane of Glamis, better known as Shakespeare’s Macbeth, stalked the majestic halls of Glamis Castle (tickets from £16) in the heart of Angus – and in real life, Scottish king Malcolm II was murdered here in 1034.

The family home of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, its red sandstone walls crowned with battlements and pointed turrets dating from the 17th century, Glamis is the epitome of baronial grandeur. It has royal associations as the childhood home of the late Queen Mother, as well as the birthplace of Princess Margaret in 1930.

It’s well worth taking a tour to discover the castle’s many tales and secrets – including chilling mysteries of a hidden room, a secret passage, solemn initiations and shadowy figures glimpsed by night on the battlements. One nameless terror was so dreadful that the 13th Earl of Strathmore warned: “If you could even guess the nature of this castle’s secret, you would get down on your knees and thank God it was not yours.” His heir, perhaps understandably, flatly refused to have it revealed to him. 

Extensive gardens include a Pinetum with a trail of sculptures depicting scenes from Macbeth capturing the madness and mental turmoil of the play. Local attractions include St Fergus’s Well, a natural spring near where ­Fergus the Pict, patron saint of Glamis, lived in a cave, and tours and tastings of the award-winning Gin Bothy.

Where to stay: The Royal Hotel & Spa in Forfar (01307 462 979) has rooms from £111 per night

Braemar Castle

A 17th-century castle with a colourful past, Braemar Castle (tickets from £12) is an iconic landmark in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, with castellated turrets, a star-shaped curtain wall and a bottle-­necked dungeon.

Built by the Earl of Mar and home to the chiefs of Clan Farquharson, it has been a hunting lodge, fortress, garrison and family residence. Those who have called it home include the second Earl of Mar, who spent his childhood as a playmate of James IV; Finlay Mhor, the standard bearer for Mary Queen of Scots at the Battle of Pinkie; and the sixth Earl, who raised the Standard for the Jacobites’ 1715 rebellion and lost everything – his title, lands and the castle.

Unusually, it is now in the hands of the small local community under a 50-year lease, an arrangement intended to allow locals to raise funds to restore and conserve the castle. The forbidding exterior conceals a dozen rooms ­furnished as though the Clan Chief had just stepped out. Highlights include a grand dining room, gracious drawing room, Victorian bathrooms and delightful morning room. 

Where to stay: Dalmunzie Castle Hotel in Glenshee (01250 885 224) has doubles from £175 per night 

Kelburn Castle

Visitors to this ancient baronial pile in hills overlooking the Firth of Clyde could be forgiven for thinking they’d wandered onto a film set.

In 2007, the 10th Earl of Glasgow – whose family have owned the castle since it was built in the 13th century – decided to brighten up the old place, inviting four Brazilian graffiti artists to paint its walls and a tower, producing a multi-coloured vision straight out of a fairy tale. 

Historic Scotland approved the artwork on the condition it was removed within three years, but it proved so popular with the public that it has since been allowed to remain.

The estate (entry to the grounds is free, castle tours cost £10) is also open to the public as a country park, including a well-used family adventure playground with trail through a “Secret Forest” that leads to giants’ houses and crocodile swamps. There’s also a woodland adventure course that tests balance and agility on a circuit of wooden walkways, steppingstones, tunnels and swings.

In July the estate hosts a 6,000-capacity music and arts festival. Although the castle remains a private home, it opens for tours in the summer months. 

Where to stay: The estate has its own glamping site (01475 568 685) with standard yurts (sleeping four) from £85 per night

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan (tickets from £11) is the cinematic doyenne of Scottish castles. At the head of three great sea lochs on the approach to the Isle of Skye, its dramatic profile has drawn countless photographers and film­makers – most notably for scenes in Highlander, and the James Bond ­escapade The World is Not Enough, in which it doubled as the Scottish headquarters of MI6.

With 13th-century origins, the ­present castle dates from the early 20th century. Its previous incarnation as a medieval stronghold of Clan Mackenzie and their allies Clan MacRae paid the price for supporting the Jacobite cause when three government frigates bombarded and seized it in 1719, before blowing it up and leaving it in ruins. Two centuries later, Lt Col John ­MacRae-Gilstrap, an officer in the Black Watch, restored the ruins as a family home, which is now open to the public. 

Grand rooms are filled with period furniture, fine art and Jacobean artefacts, including dirks, duelling pistols and a claymore said to have been wielded at Culloden. Hugely popular, Eilean Donan has become an icon of the Highlands that likely features on more calendars and shortbread tins than any other.

While you’re there, make time for the nearby highland hideaway of Plockton, a charming straggle of stone cottages on the shores of Loch Carron that could lay fair claim to the most romantic scenery in Britain.

Where to stay: The Plockton Hotel (01599 544 274) has doubles from £160

Inveraray Castle

Devotees of Downton Abbey may recognise Inveraray Castle (tickets from £16 or £8 gardens only) as the fictional home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Flintshire. In fact, the baroque ­palladian and gothic-style castle – framed by rugged highland scenery on the shores of Loch Fyne – is the ancestral home of the Dukes of Argyll and the seat of the Clan Campbell.

The current clan chief, the 13th Duke of Argyll Sir Torquhil Ian Campbell, and his wife Eleanor are resolved to make the most of their 18th-century ancestral pile by sharing it with the public.

A highlight of the opulent interior is a dramatic Armoury Hall, soaring 69ft in height to the highest ceiling in Scotland. It contains 1,300 pieces of weaponry, including Brown Bess muskets, Lochaber axes and 18th-century Scottish broadswords. 

The State Dining Room and Tapestry Drawing Room contain French tapestries, fine examples of Scottish, English and French ­furniture and countless artworks. A priceless collection of china, silver and family heirlooms spanning ­generations is illustrated by a geneal­ogical display in the Clan Room.

The 16 acres of gardens are a seasonal riot of colour with rhododendrons, azaleas, roses and heathers, and the nearby nine-mile Crinan Canal provides a picturesque, navigable route between the Clyde and the Sound of Jura, which makes for a pleasant day excursion.

Where to stay: Brambles of Inveraray  (01499 302 252) has doubles from £150 per night

Culzean Castle

The sprawling clifftop stronghold that is Culzean Castle (tickets from £20) rises above a huge estate of woods, beaches, secret follies and play parks, and was once the home of the Marquess of Ailsa, Chief of Clan Kennedy. 

The 18th-century Robert Adams’ ­masterpiece is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland, which allows the public to enjoy its opulent interiors and sweeping grounds with a Swan Lake and marvellous views of the Firth of Clyde.

When the Kennedy family gifted the castle in 1945, it requested that the top floor be converted into an apartment for Dwight D Eisenhower in recognition of his role as Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe. He stayed there four times – once during his tenure as US President, when it became his “Scottish White House”. The apartment has since been converted into a luxury six-bedroom hotel.

The castle treasures include one of the world’s largest collections of swords and flintlock pistols, and Adam’s dramatic sweeping oval staircase with soaring colonnades. In the grounds are restaurants, a second-hand bookshop, and miles of walking trails leading to idyllic picnic spots. 

Where to stay: The aforementioned Eisenhower Hotel (01655 884 455) sits within the castle, and has rooms from £250 per night

Cawdor Castle

The fictional home of Shakespeare’s Thane of Cawdor, Cawdor Castle (tickets from £8) was actually built 300 years after the real 11th-century events portrayed in Macbeth. The medieval tower house was erected near Nairn by the Thanes of Cawdor as a private fortress with a moat and drawbridge, turrets and turnpike stairs – the quintessential vision of a story­book castle. It has been home to 23 generations of the Cawdors, and presently to the Dowager Countess of Cawdor, stepmother of the 7th Earl.

To say she lives in some splendour is an understatement. The sumptuous rooms open to the public contain collections of rare Flemish tapestries, fine art and furniture, ceramics and sculpture spanning 3,500 years.

The drawing room is adorned with portraits of generations of Campbells, while the dining room is warmed by a magnificent stone fireplace, and the kitchen retains its 19th-century range and antique cooking implements.

The manicured grounds encompass three gardens, as well as the Cawdor Big Wood and a nine-hole golf course. Shakespeare comes alive every ­summer with open-air performances of his classic plays. 

Culloden Battlefield, where the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion came to a bloody end, is a short drive from Cawdor and it is brought to life in emotive experiences in a visitor centre.

Where to stay: Carnach House in Nairn (01667 453 996) has rooms £135 per night

Balmoral Castle

Among the UK’s impressive array of royal residences, Balmoral Castle (tickets £15) holds a unique position. 

Purchased for Queen Victoria in 1852 by Prince Albert (who decided to demolish the site’s original 14th-century building, because it was “too small” for the royals), the new edifice was erected from local granite with an 80ft turreted clocktower. 

Victoria famously described the Scottish ­baronial castle as her “dear paradise in the Highlands”, and it remains a favourite holiday home of the royal family: the relationship between Prince Charles and Diana is said to have flourished during a weekend at the castle, and Queen Elizabeth II spent her last days here.

From April to July, when royals are not in residence, the ballroom is open to visitors and holds an exhibition of photographs of the other rooms. The 50,000-acre estate is beautifully maintained, with woodland walks, shrubberies and gardens, and there is a collection of royal carriages and cars in the stables, as well as two-hour tours by Land Rover.

Where to stay: No 45 in Ballater (01339 755 420) has rooms from £145 per night

Have you visited any of Scotland’s grand castles? Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below

• United Kingdom,
• Facebook Icon
• WhatsApp Icon

15 Best Castles in Scotland to Visit in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 8, 2024

The exact amount of castles in Scotland is unknown – the general consensus being around 3,000. There are more Scottish castles than anywhere else in the British Isles. Which, considering how many  historic UK cities  there are with castles, is an impressive title. Visiting castles is the best way to immerse yourself in historic Scotland , whether you pick a medieval fortress, tower house, or royal residence.

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland

This guide is jam-packed with the best castles in Scotland. These are the most exciting castles, and all have unique claims to fame or stories to their name. Buckle up because you are in for some serious castle inspiration.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle needs a little introduction. As probably the most famous castle in Scotland, the medieval castle sits on Castle Rock in proud display in the center of Edinburgh Old Town. Edinburgh Castle is the second most visited attraction in the UK, so you best believe that tickets book out quickly and crowds flock in peak seasons. We suggest booking your tickets here for skip-the-line access before you go.

Because of this, Edinburgh Castle is best-visited off-season. With fewer people around, you can really take in Scotland’s history. Edinburgh Castle has hundreds of exhibits, including The Honours of Scotland, aka the Scottish crown jewels.

Admittedly, it would be criminal for Edinburgh Castle not to make our list. Not only is it the medieval castle that has survived for centuries in Scotland’s capital city. Edinburgh Castle is also one of the best-preserved castles in Scotland. For a full day out with plenty of educational and informative details, you can’t go wrong with Edinburgh Castle. And bonus points for anyone who finds  somewhere to stay in Edinburgh  with views of the castle on Castle Rock.

• Hours: 9:30 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: $22

2. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is another central building in Scottish history. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was once a Renaissance royal palace – full of luxuries like a great hall for balls and feasting and a royal hunting lodge. Situated in Stirling, Stirling Castle was also tactically used as a stronghold during the Scottish Wars of Independence. Stirling Castle sits on a volcanic rock on an elevated vantage point. Because of this advantageous position, many battles were fought around Stirling Castle, including Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn. Stirling Castle was a hub of conflict.

Today, Stirling Castle is fascinating for visitors intrigued by Scottish history – especially related to the Wars of Independence. It is surrounded by battlefields. While in Stirling Castle , visitors can tour the different rooms and get involved with the more entertaining aspects like trying on period costumes and chatting with the costumed character actors.

Stirling Castle is fun and family-friendly, despite its somber history. It earned a spot on our list for its links to the Wars of Independence. Only a few castles in Scotland offer such vital insight into this period of Scottish history. So don’t overlook Stirling Castle.

• Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm
• Entry Fees: $18

3. Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is one of the most dramatic castles in Scotland. The castle remains sit on a 160-foot rock overlooking the North Sea, which is believed to have been the first fortified castle. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the Early Middle Ages, while the surviving parts that visitors see today are dated to the 16th century. Despite its ruined state, Dunnottar Castle is one of the most famous castles in Scotland. It speaks to a lost era of Scotland and is an utterly romantic addition to our top Scottish Castles.

Dunnottar Castle has seen the likes of Mary Queen of Scots and William Wallace cross its threshold. And with over 1000 years of history, it is one of the best places to experience historic Scotland. The castle is located in the coastal town of Stonehaven, along Scotland’s east coast. It is a two-hour drive from Edinburgh, but we suggest spending a few nights there. Especially since it is near the Cairngorms National Park.

• Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fees: $11

4. Glamis Castle

Glamis Castle is one of the most beautiful medieval castles in Scotland. The castle has over 650 years of history and is said to have inspired Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. The ancestral owners of Glamis Castle are the Strathmore family, who have resided there since 1372. It is even said to have hosted Mary Queen of Scots and was the childhood home of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. At Glamis Castle, the Queen Mother also gave birth to Princess Margaret.

The long links to royals bagged Glamis Castle a spot in our guide. It is engaging to visit, with a great insight into historic Scotland. It is one of the only castles in Scotland to embrace its literary links, too, featuring a Macbeth Trail, which brings the play to life. The castle is situated outside the village of Glamis, a 20-minute drive north of Dundee.

• Hours: March-October: 10 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: $9

5. Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is a royal residence – aka part of the collection of royal castles belonging to the British royal family. Prince Albert bought the castle for Queen Victoria in 1852, and Balmoral Castle was famously a favorite spot for Queen Elizabeth II. What most people don’t know, though, is that the original Balmoral Castle was deemed ‘too small’ for the royal family. Prince Albert actually commissioned a new castle to be built in 1856. Balmoral Castle is a beautiful place to learn more about the British royals. Its close links to the British monarchy earned it a spot on our list.

Balmoral Castle is located in the Cairngorms National Park near the village of Balmoral. It is a beautiful place to visit along the River Dee, and it is easy to see why a royal hunting lodge was added. Balmoral Castle is surrounded by nature.

• Hours: April-July: 10 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: $20

6. Eilean Donan Castle

Chances are you’ve seen a picture of Eilean Donan Castle already. The castle sits on a tidal island amidst a confluence of three lochs. The loch setting is magical (who knows, maybe the Loch Ness monster has a cousin?), and Eilean Donan Castle is easily one of the best castles in Scotland for a scenic location. The 13th-century castle was once the stronghold of the MacRae family. Still, it was sadly destroyed in the war during the Jacobite Uprising. Only in 1932 was the Scottish castle restored to its former glory and opened to the public.

Eilean Donan Castle is beautiful to visit. If you do, you must stop at the multiple scenic viewpoints around the loch shoreline. Inside, you can take tours of the rooms and exhibits. But the main draw is the aesthetic and the fact that such an important castle was resurrected from despair with renovations.

• Hours: February-December: 9 am to 6 pm (varies by month)
• Entry Fees: $13

7. Braemar Castle

The 17th-century Braemar Castle is an iconic fortified castle in the middle of the Cairngorms National Park. It has had some famous visitors, including the current British royal family. Clan Farquharson is also one of the most famed clans in Scotland, so visiting their ancestral family home is a must.

The castle has seen many ‘background’ figures of Scotland, from the standard bearer for Mary Queen of Scots to warriors of the Battle of Culloden. Braemar Castle is exciting to visit and hear about the other side of history. The side of history that involved everyday people, not just influential figures and the wealthy.

Braemar Castle is just a stone’s throw from the Scottish Highland Games. If you visit at the right time of year, consider combining the two. It is worth noting that for a period of 2024, Braemar Castle will be closed inside for renovation. Check the website for updates.

• Entry Fees: TBC

8. Cawdor Castle

Cawdor Castle is another ancestral home central to Scottish history. Shakespeare fans may recognize the castle from Macbeth’s ‘Thane of Cawdor’. And honestly, Cawdor Castle is never far from legends or stories. That is why we added it to our list. The medieval castle actually features a tower built around a legendary holly tree. According to legend, the original Thane of Cawdor dreamed about a donkey carrying a coffer of gold. In his dream, the donkey laid down at the best place for a new castle, where it would forever prosper. The thane did the only logical thing – reenacting his dream and building the new castle at the holly tree where the donkey stopped.

Cawdor Castle is fascinating to visit and has a really engaging history. You can visit on a self-guided or guided tour, exploring the grounds and interior. In the tiny village of Cawdor, Cawdor Castle is around a 20-minute drive from Inverness.

• Hours: April-October: 10 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: $17

9. Culzean Castle

Culzean Castle is lavish and opulent – what more do you need to know? The castle dates back to the 16th century, and its grounds feature a deer park. Families will love getting up close to the friendly deer. Culzean Castle is the perfect place to visit with children for that ‘classic castle’ experience. Inside, the main features of Culzean Castle are the beautiful drawing room and oval staircase. Once owned by Clan Kennedy, Culzean Castle is now the property of the National Trust of Scotland. This means that while the castle remains decorated as a private residence, it remains open year-round for public access.

Aside from the castle having deer you can meet, our favorite thing about Culzean Castle is its clifftop location. The castle sits overlooking the Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran. Just south of Ayr, Culzean Castle is an easy day trip from Glasgow , just an hour’s drive away.

• Hours: 10 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fees: $12

10. Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is the largest in the Northern Highlands. It is a private residence of many titles – from one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland to the most northern of Scotland’s great houses. Dunrobin Castle has housed the same family for over 700 years. We love how many ties it has to Scotland’s history and the history of the UK. Dunrobin Castle was a naval hospital in WWI. It has links to the Houses of Parliament through its shared architect, Sir Charles Barry.

Its history goes back even further, though, since the oldest parts of the castle date back to around 1275. A visit to the castle’s on-site museum is a must. It is one of the most informative and historically complex castles to visit in Scotland. Regarding visiting, Dunrobin Castle is easy to squeeze into a  North Coast 500 road trip . Dunrobin Castle sits on the coast overlooking the Moray Firth. It is just outside the east Scottish village of Golspie. Check out our  Dunrobin Castle guide here for more inspiration and essential details.

• Hours: April-September:
• Entry Fees: $16

11. Craigievar Castle

Craigievar Castle is pretty eye-catching. No, seriously, the Scots baronial-style castle is bright pink. The pink Scottish castle is rumored to be the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle – every child’s dream addition to our top Scottish castles. Craigievar Castle is beautiful to visit.

The castle’s beauty is what bagged it a spot on our list; it is one of the best castles in Scotland if you want a unique aesthetic. And located in Alford, a village between Cairngorms National Park and Aberdeen, it has a scenic location in the Scottish Highlands.

Craigievar Castle dates back to 1626 and has Jacobean touches throughout. Having lived through the fight for Scottish independence, Craigievar Castle is full of exciting exhibits about Scotland’s history. Visitors can tour the many rooms and exhibits. And once you’ve explored inside, you can head out to spot wildlife like pine martens and deer outside on its grounds.

• Hours: Dawn to dusk

12. Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle is a stunning Scottish castle on the Isle of Skye. The castle is the property of Clan MacLeod and, like many castles in Scotland, is shrouded in tradition and tales of magic. The most valued possession in Dunvegan Castle is the Fairy Flag of Dunvegan, which is said to hold magical powers of guaranteed victory in battle.

The silk flag is believed to date back to the 4th century and comes from Syria or Rhodes. Dunvegan Castle is one of the most fascinating castles in Scotland. Occupied by the same family for over 800 years, it is full of stories and legends passed through generations. It is also believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

You can take a self-guided or guided tour through Dunvegan Castle. It is a wonderful spot to get a more intimate taste of Scottish history. We love the element of magic and superstition.

• Hours: April-October: 10 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry Fees: $19

13. Floors Castle

Floors Castle is one of the best castles in Scotland on the Scottish borders – just an hour from Edinburgh. Set on a beautiful estate, the 52 acres feature a Victorian Walled Garden and Millennium Garden. Plenty of woodland and riverside trails zigzag the estate’s grounds. Floors Castle is as much a day outdoors as an indoor attraction. This says a lot considering Floors Castle is the largest inhabited house in Scotland. We love how much there is to do at Floors Castle, and its myriad of pop-up events and activities is another reason we added it to our guide.

Floor Castle dates back to the 18th-century. It was initially treated by the first Duke as a ‘country house’ or bolt hole when escaping the demands of Parliament in London. Nine Dukes later, the castle was finally opened to the public in 1977. It is an exciting castle, always hosting a new activity or event.

• Hours: May-October: 10:30 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fees: $21

14. Blair Castle and Gardens

Blair Castle is one of the most historic of Scotland’s castles. Home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries, it has lived through some of Scotland’s darkest hours. The castle’s 30 rooms have seen some of the most influential politicians and soldiers. Dating back to 1269, Blair Castle has an impressive display of armory throughout – a fitting nod to Scotland’s turbulent past. Its historical importance is precisely why it made our list.

Blair Castle and Gardens is located near the tiny village of Old Blair, just underneath the Cairngorms National Park. It is hugely scenic to visit. The national park backdrop is something else. If you have a few days to spend in the area, Cairngorms National Park is well-combined with Blair Castle. Inside, the castle’s design spans multiple eras. Some features whisk you back to medieval Scotland, while others speak to more recent Victorian styles.

Touring Blair Castle is fascinating because it has such a long history. You can clearly see the different influences of each era. It is a fantastic Scottish castle with exhibitions throughout for a museum-like experience .

• Hours: April-October: Monday-Sunday 10 am to 5 pm

15. Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is one of the best castles in Scotland. Why? It has been home to the Clan Campbells for generations. The current Clan Campbells hold the title of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll. It is also so beautiful that it was chosen as the set for the 2012 Downtown Abbey Christmas special. We had to add it to our list.

Rather than being always available, like Edinburgh Castle, visiting Inveraray Castle is much more intimate. You’ll tour all the private rooms and floors, learning more about its past owners and architects. The castle itself has beautiful Scottish baronial architecture.

The castle is near the village of Inveraray, on the outskirts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. It is possible to visit as a day trip from Glasgow , Oban, or even to incorporate it into a Scottish road trip.

• Hours: March-September: Thursday-Monday 10 am to 5 pm, October: Thursday-Monday 10 am to 4 pm

Extra Bonuses: More Scottish Castles

• Mauchline Castle: A rectangular tower house in East Ayrshire.
• Caerkaverock Castle: A moated triangular castle near Dumfries.
• Duart Castle: A castle by the Sound of Mull owned by Clan Maclean.

To Conclude

From the Scottish Highlands to the center of  action-packed Edinburgh , the castles in Scotland are something else. Visiting a Scottish castle is a rite of passage. Castles are so intertwined in Scottish history that it is near impossible – or should be considered as such – to leave them out of a Scotland itinerary.

Looking for more inspiration ahead of your visit to Scotland? Check out our  North Coast 500 guide  and our ultimate guide to the  best cities in Scotland . Otherwise, enjoy visiting as many of these best castles in Scotland as possible. You won’t regret it.

Plan Your Next Trip to Scotland With These Resources

The Essential Guide to the North Coast 500 Scotland

• 15 Best Cities in Scotland
• 22 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland
• 8 Things to do in Inverness – The Capital of the Scottish Highlands
• 3 Days in Edinburgh – The Complete Edinburgh Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

25 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland In 2024

26 Best Things to do in Scotland in 2024

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “15 Best Castles in Scotland to Visit in 2024”

Every Place of Scotland is worthy, i have seen so much greenery, peace and calm. It was my nicest holiday ever.

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

• Travel Update
• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Privately Guided i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Northern Lights i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• Ice & Snow Hotels i
• Multi-Country Tours i
• All Travel Styles
• Show all tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

12 Best Castles in Scotland That You Should Visit

Scotland has been, throughout its history, home to thousands of castles. If you’re fascinated by them, just like we are, you’re in the right place! We can ensure that touring them is a fantastic way to uncover the country’s many stories and discover its natural and historical landscape.

It may seem challenging to narrow down your list into a manageable itinerary. To help you, we’ve compiled the best castles in Scotland that you won’t want to miss, from seaside fortress to medieval palaces. 

• Explore these sights the easy way by taking a tour featuring Scottish castles

1. Edinburgh Castle

Best for: sightseeing in Scotland’s capital city

Easily one of Scotland’s well-known attractions, Edinburgh Castle sits proudly above the city from its craggy, hilltop location on Castle Rock.

People have lived on this hill for thousands of years and archaeologists have unearthed remains from as early as the Iron Ages. Yet, Edinburgh Castle wasn’t built until the 12th century.

Today, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most visited tourist attractions and for a good reason too. Here you can learn about the castle’s role in Scottish history and how it became one of the most attacked fortresses in the UK.

Edinburgh Castle has seen some of the best and worst periods in Scottish history, including the 14th-century Wars of Scottish Independence and the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

Inside the castle itself, you’ll find some gems that you’ll want to see for yourself. You could discover the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and hear the 15th-century gun fired every day at 1 PM. Don't miss St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in all of Edinburgh .

Walk atop Castle Rock and you’ll also be rewarded with fantastic views of the city below.

• Spend Christmas or New Year's Eve in Scotland and you could see Edinburgh Castle at its festive finest
• Related: Cool facts about Scotland

2. Stirling Castle

Best for: Discovering the heart of Scottish history and keeping the kids entertained

Dating back to the 12th century, Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill, at the heart of Stirling , and is an unmissable landmark in the area.

Stirling itself is known as the "brooch of Scotland", and, because of its location, it was said that "He who holds Stirling holds Scotland". For this reason, it was the location of many legendary battles, including the sieges of Stirling Castle.

Although a fortress, it is also an enchanting palace and was once the favoured home of the Stewart kings and queens. It has even played host to several coronations and christenings.

You’ll love roaming around its lush gardens with views over the valley below. Or, on rainy days, wander through the superb sculptures and medieval architecture inside.

Kids will especially enjoy dressing up as court officials or maids of honour, and trying their hand at medieval instruments.

• Discover the history of Scotland with a heritage tour

3. Doune Castle

Best for: Stepping into a filming location

Located a short drive from Stirling, the 14th-century Doune Castle is known for its beauty and as the backdrop for many popular movies and TV series.

Historically, this Scottish castle has been the stomping ground of many interesting and powerful characters like Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

More recently, however, it has featured in hit TV shows like Outlander (as Castle Leoch) and Game of Thrones (as Castle Black) and movies like Outlaw King .

You may also recognise it from the classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail . To pay homage to this classic movie, bring some coconuts along, or listen to Terry Jones as he narrates the castle’s audioguide.

• To follow in the steps of Jamie and Claire, browse our Outlander tours of Scotland

4. Dunrobin Castle

Best for: exploring your own fairy-tale romance

With its towering spires and grand baronial architecture, Dunrobin Castle looks straight out of a fairy tale.

If you’re passing through the northern Highlands, you may want to spend some time wandering around, hand-in-hand with your special someone.

Dunrobin is the largest Scottish castle in the northern Highlands. Here you'll learn about Scotland’s history, and the castle’s fascinating past and historical residents. This includes the Duke of Sutherland, made famous for his (and his wife’s) role in the Highland Clearances.

During the 20th century, Dunrobin was also used as a naval hospital during WWI and as a boarding school during the 1960s and 1970s.

• Visit more of this fantastic rugged region with a Scottish Highlands tour

5. Dunvegan Castle

Best for: reclaiming your Scottish roots at Clan MacLeod’s ancestral home

Dunvegan Castle has been home to Clan MacLeod for over 800 years, making it the oldest continuously inhabited Scottish castle. Visiting Dunvegan will give you an authentic glimpse into one of Scotland’s oldest clans, and you’ll leave with a renewed sense of Scottish pride.

From its hilltop perch, Dunvegan provides sweeping views over Loch Dunvegan on the iconic Isle of Skye. You could easily spend a relaxing day walking the 5 acres of its 18th-century gardens.

Don’t forget to step inside, where you’ll find the intricate and mythical Fairy Flag, which according to local legend provided many victories for the MacLeod clan.

• Explore the most romantic spots of Scotland with these travel packages

6. Dunnottar Castle

Best for: an atmospheric day of sightseeing by the sea

Make sure to discover one of Scotland’s most dramatic and picture-perfect medieval castles by stopping at Dunnottar.

From its perch at the top of a rocky headland, Dunnottar Castle looks almost impenetrable. Therefore, it’s no surprise that it was used as the location to safeguard the crown jewels from falling into the hands of the English during the 17th century.

Thanks to its strategic defence location, Dunnottar also had an important role in Scottish military history and was used for more than protecting precious jewels.

Some of the buildings date back to the 14th and 16th centuries. Meanwhile the surrounding area is believed to have been inhabited by the Picts, the ancient people that once populated Scotland.

It has also been home to the Earls Marischal (once one of the most powerful families in Scotland), William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots and the Marquis of Montrose.

• Travel at your own pace by booking one of our Scotland driving tour packages
• Did you know you could combine a road trip of Scotland with one of Ireland?

7. Ardvreck Castle

Best for: hunting for ghosts and other spooky encounters

Beware, ghosts are said to haunt these halls! Ardvreck, a 15th-century castle ruin, is rumoured to have two ghosts: one a tall man dressed in grey and the other a spooky little girl. Both are said to have died while visiting the MacLeod Clan.

On Ardvreck Castle grounds more myths and rumours await. According to local legend, a mermaid lives in the castle’s loch and her tears cause the water level to rise.

Even if you don’t believe in the supernatural or mythical creatures, Ardvreck Castle, with its stunning location by the atmospheric Loch Assynt, is still worth a visit.

8. Blair Castle

Best for: learning about Scottish Highland feuds

Travel back in time at the 13th-century Blair Castle , home to more than 19 generations of Clan Murray.

With its strategic location in Glen Garry, Blair Castle was the ideal base for one of the Scottish Highlands feuding dynasties as its epic views gave them sight and control over the surrounding area.

Today, Blair Castle has a blend of different architectural styles including Medieval, Georgian and Victorian. You can learn about the castle on a guided tour (open to the public April to October) or explore its beautifully maintained grounds, listed as one of Scotland’s most significant gardens.

9. Eilean Donan Castle

Best for: taking Instagram-worthy photos

On the road to the Isle of Skye lies Eilean Donan, one of the Scottish Highlands' most iconic castles. Set on a small tidal island between Loch Duich and Alsh, Eilean Donan provides plenty of excellent photo opportunities.

Eilean Donan Castle  stood strong for over 5 centuries before being destroyed in 1719 for its involvement in the Jacobite rebellions. Today, you can take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and imagine life during this tumultuous period. 

• Visit Scotland in summer
• Many castles are still open in winter, so look at our  Scotland winter packages and don't hesitate to visit during this quieter season

10. Urquhart Castle

Best for: Keeping an eye out for the elusive Loch Ness monster

From its vantage point on a headland overlooking Loch Ness , Urquhart Castle offers visitors a chance to spot the elusive sea monster, fondly known as Nessie.

If you’re not much of a monster hunter, you can explore its atmospheric ruins. Or venture into its spooky (and possibly haunted) prisons. You can also admire Urquhart's collection of medieval artefacts or simply enjoy the stunning Highland view.

• Take your castle-exploring vacation to the next level and get us to organise your own  private Scottish tour

11. Cawdor Castle

Best for: re-creating scenes from a Shakespearean play

While the actual, historical King Macbeth died long before Cawdor Castle was built, this doesn’t stop people from linking the two.

In Shakespeare’s Macbeth , the three witches predict that Macbeth would become the "Thane of Cawdor" before being crowned King. So, in a way, Cawdor Castle became Macbeth’s fictional home.

Shakespeare-aside, Cawdor Castle has a rich history as one of the homes of Clan Campbell since the 16th century. Today, it remains the official residence of the Dowager Countess Cawdor.

12. Inveraray Castle

Best for: pretending to be lords and ladies like in Downton Abbey

As you relax in the Inveraray Castle gardens on the shores of Loch Fyne, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived on the set of Downton Abbey. After a romantic picnic, spend the day exploring one of Scotland’s finest stately homes and admiring the rugged Highland scenery.

Inside, you can explore highlights such as the Armoury Hall with 1,300 pieces of weaponry, or admire the French tapestries in the State Dining Room and Tapestry Drawing Room.

You can also learn more about the Campbells as Inveraray Castle has been the residence of the Duke of Argyll, chief of Clan Campbell, since the 16th century.

• Check out off-the-beaten-path tours of Scotland
• Related: Scotland or Ireland – Where should you go?

FAQs about castles in Scotland

How many castles are there in scotland.

It’s estimated that throughout history Scotland has been home to over 3,000 castles. Today, only hundreds are left standing.

That’s still plenty for you to choose from for your visit! The 12 mentioned above are only a guide, but there are so many more. Visit Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull or Craigievar Castle in Aberdeenshire, nicknamed the pink castle because of its unusual colouring.

Why are there so many castles in Scotland?

Castles were mainly used as the homes of clan leaders and used for defence purposes. This is why there are so many scattered around the country. They were valuable to hold on to power and protect the local communities.

Although it is a region far less travelled, the south of Scotland has so many interesting castles and ruins. This is from the historic battles for territory with England.

What is the oldest castle in Scotland?

Apparently, the oldest castle still standing in Scotland that can be dated is Castle Sween. It was built in the 1100s along the eastern shore of Loch Sween, in Knapdale, Argyll.

The oldest continuously inhabited castle in the country though is Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. It sits in a beautiful loch-side setting on the Isle of Skye.

• Explore Scotland with a history and culture tour
• Related: Where was The Crown filmed?

What is the biggest castle in Scotland?

Technically, the largest castle in Scotland is Edinburgh Castle. And when you spot it in person, standing proudly atop Castle Rock, you’ll see why.

But just like the oldest castle, there is also a biggest "inhabited" Scottish castle. It is Floors Castle, owned by the Duke of Roxburghe, and located near Kelso in the Scottish Borders. 

Can you sleep in a castle in Scotland?

Not only can you tour so many of Scotland’s castles and stately homes, but many offer overnight accommodation. If you’re keen to sleep in a grand Scottish castle, ask your Nordic Visitor travel consultant . They’ll look at possibilities for you so you can make that dream a reality!

Are the royal castles in Scotland open to the public?

Yes! The most famous one is of course the Royal Family’s Scottish home, Balmoral Castle . It is open to the public from April to July, so plan to pop by in late spring, early summer if it’s on your bucket list. You could also visit its stand-in from The Crown , Ardverikie Castle in Kinloch Laggan.

Or explore the 14th-century Glamis Castle, the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. You may also know that she purchased the Castle of Mey in the 1950s. You can tour the castle and its romantic walled garden, or you could also see its Crown stand-in, New Slains Castle in Aberdeenshire.

In Edinburgh, don’t miss seeing the Crown Jewels of Scotland at Edinburgh Castle. You could also visit the King's official residence in the Scottish capital, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, down the Royal Mile.  

How old is Edinburgh Castle in Scotland?

Edinburgh Castle has been an important part of Scotland’s history for almost a thousand years! Indeed, it was built upon a former volcano in 1103 and has been part of Edinburgh’s epic backdrop ever since.

Explore Scottish castles with Nordic Visitor

Still haven’t had your fill of castles? Why not discover the charming 18th-century Culzean Castle in Ayrshire? Or visit the 18th-century Castle Fraser during your time in Deeside.

Wherever your Scottish adventure takes you, you’re sure to find some amazing castles to visit. Choose a self-drive package to reach off-the-beaten-track castles in the Scottish Highlands, where you’ll have the dramatic scenery to yourself. 

Alternatively you could opt for a  small group tour  or privately guided trip . Sit back, relax and learn about the complex history behind most Scottish castles with a local guide.

Nordic Visitor can help arrange your tour, making it easy to book accommodation at any time of year and find the best transport links so you can discover as many castles as you want.

Contact us to  create your dream Scotland trip and   tour Scottish castles .

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS & ISLE OF SKYE

• USD ($)
• CAD ($)
• AUD ($)

HIGHLIGHTS OF SCOTLAND

Related posts, 10 cool scottish facts.

Blogs , Scotland , Guides , Things to Do

7 of the Best Places to Visit in Beautiful Scotland

Best time to visit scotland: your complete guide, 7 outlander filming locations to visit in scotland.

The best castles in Scotland

All of Scotland’s most impressive castles in one place

Scotland has the most romantic landscapes, a feature heightened by some of Europe’s finest castles. Here are the best castles in Scotland…

Scotland magazine’s pick of the 21 best castles in scotland, edinburgh castle , midlothian.

Perched high above the capital, there has been a castle on a rock here for over 1,000 years and it is without a doubt one of the best castles in Scotland. It was King Malcolm Canmore’s widow, Saint Margaret, who built the stone chapel here in the 11th century. Every occupant has made changes and additions culminating in today’s mix of military barracks, palace, fortress and war memorial. Visitors can inspect the Scottish Crown Jewels, known as The Honours of Scotland , Mons Meg, the great cannon employed at the siege of Norham in the 15th century, and the Stone of Destiny. The Scottish United Services Museum is housed in this great Scottish castle. One of the castle’s best-known features is the one o’clock gun fired from the ramparts every weekday. Details: April to September 9.30am to 6pm. October to March 0930 to 1700. For further information and admission charges call +44 (0) 131 225 9846.

Stirling Castle , Stirlingshire

Overlooking two of Scotland’s most historic battlefields, Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn, the Royal Castle of Stirling is one of the most famous and best castles in Scotland and has been at the centre of the nation’s history since it was built. The Great Hall has been recently refurbished to reflect its appearance at the end of the Middle Ages, the early Renaissance splendours, carved wooden roundels and Chapel Royal built for the baptism of Prince Henry in 1594. A major exhibition is taking place to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Treaty of Perpetual Peace. The treaty was the seal of peace between England and Scotland that culminated with the marriage of James IV of Scotland and Margaret Tudor, sister of England’s Henry VIII. Details: Open Mon to Sun; November to March: 9.30am to 4.30pm. April to October: 9.30am to 6pm. For information and admission charges phone: +44 (0)1786 450 000.

Eilean Donan , Wester Ross

When illuminated at night this is one of the most stunning images in the world. Ancestral seat of the Clan Macrae, it contains a Pipers’ Gallery and items of military regalia. Situated on the banks of Loch Duich on the A87, 13km before Kyle of Lochalsh and the Skye Bridge. Details: Open April to October, 10am to 5.30pm.

Cawdor Castle, near Nairn

Steeped in romantic imagery with its Macbeth association, it was nevertheless built post-Macbeth. That does not mean, however, that it is any the less impressive. There are paintings from the Old Masters and a thorn tree growing in the basement. Details: Open May until early October, seven days, 10am to 5.30pm. There is an admission charge.

Armadale Castle , Isle of Skye

This is the ancestral home of Clan Donald, once the most powerful family on the western seaboard of Scotland. For Scotland’s largest clan there is a visitor centre. Details: For further information call +44 (0) 1471 844 389.

Inveraray Castle , Argyll

Ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, chiefs of Clan Campbell. Situated on Loch Fyne, the town of Inveraray sprang up around it. There is a spectacular entrance hall with clan armoury used as decoration, fine furniture and collections of family memorabilia including quaichs From the exterior, this spectacular castle resembles a French chateau – surely one of the best castles in Scotland. Details: Open April to October. For admission charges and opening times call +44 (0) 1499 302 203.

Dunvegan Castle , Isle of Skye

This is the island home of the Macleods of Macleod , a dramatic, castellated building with a formidable appearance. Treasures include the Fairy Flag, which wards off evil for the family. In July every year the chief of the Macleod clan holds a series of chamber music concerts, whereas his ancestors are rather more famous for bagpipe music. Details: For information and opening times call +44 (0) 1470 521 206.

Duart Castle , Isle of Mull

The 13th century seat of Clan Maclean remains a formidable fortress overlooking the approach to the island of Mull. The walls are impressively thick and make you realise just how terrifying such places could be when you are obliged to attack them. Details: Open May until October, 10.30am to 6pm. Call +44 (0) 1680 812 309.

Blair Castle , Perthshire

Great Scottish castles don’t get much better than this. Probably the most visited and certainly one of the best castles in Scotland since it sits so close to the main road leading north to the Highlands from Edinburgh. The rooms are full of treasures, and this was the last Scottish castle to be besieged. Following her visit in the 19th century, Queen Victoria granted the Duke of Atholl owners the right to raise their own private army which parades annually to this day. Details: Open April until October, 10am to 6pm. For further information call +44 (0) 1796 481 207.

Glamis Castle , Angus

The childhood home of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, this picturesque castle north of Dundee is the ancestral seat of the Earls of Strathmore and no doubt one of the best castles in Scotland. Fascinating with lots of turrets and hidden rooms and without doubt worthy of inclusion in a round-up of great Scottish castles. Details: Open mid-April until mid-October. For information on charges and admission call + 44 (0) 1307 840 242.

Floors Castle , Roxburghshire

The ancestral home of the Dukes of Roxburghe is where the Tarzan film Greystoke was filmed. Situated beside the River Tweed, it is imposingly grand and the interiors are packed with family treasures. Details: For information and opening times call +44 (0) 1573 223 333.

Tantallon Castle, East Lothian

This is an extraordinary fortress located on cliffs overlooking the North Sea and Bass Rock and situated on the coast of East Lothian. It dates from 1350 and was built by the Red Douglases to fend off all their foes, which it did until it was dismembered by order of the King. Details: For information and visiting times call +44 (0) 1620 892 727.

Dunrobin Castle Golspie , Sutherland

The ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland, at one stage the largest landowners in the United Kingdom. The statue of the first Duke, whose name is inextricably linked with the Highland Clearances, stands on Ben Bhraggie above the nearby town. The first Duke, however, was an English political reformer who just happened to marry the heiress to the Sutherland estates. The castle and separate museum are open mid-May until mid-October.

Details: For information and charges call +44 (0) 1408 633 177.

Thirlestane Castle , Lauder

The ancestral home of the Earls and Duke (there was only one) of Lauderdale, and home of the Maitland family Thirlestane Castle is no doubt one of the best castles in Scotland. The interior plasterwork is impressive and to make a visit more inviting for those not necessarily interested in fine furnishings and paintings, the current owners have introduced an extensive toy collection. Details: For information on charges and opening times call +44 (0) 1578 722 430.

Culzean Castle , near Maybole, Ayrshire

This is the jewel in the crown of the National Trust for Scotland. A grand cliff-top country house where you can actually book to stay the night, it was rebuilt by the architect Robert Adam for the Kennedy family who became Marquesses of Ailsa. Surrounded by 560 acres of grounds, there is a visitor centre, café and shop. Following the Second World War, US President Eisenhower was gifted an apartment here for his personal use. Details: Open April to October, 11am to 5.30pm. For further information call + 44 (0) 1655 760 615

Dunottar Castle , Kincardineshire

Impressive ruins on a cliff top overlooking the North Sea. Mary Queen of Scots and William Wallace passed this way, and the Hollywood actor Mel Gibson filmed Hamlet on the battlements. The crown jewels of Scotland were hidden here for safekeeping when Oliver Cromwell invaded in 1650. Details: Open March to October, 9am to 6pm (Sunday 2pm to 5pm). November to March, weekdays only, 9am until dusk.

Kisimull Castle , Isle of Barra

The fortress home of the MacNeils of Barra dating from the 11th century. It sits dramatically on an outcrop of rock which you see as soon as you sail into the bay. Repeatedly destroyed over the centuries it was rebuilt in the last century. Details: Run by Historic Scotland, it is open to the public, but visitors from the mainland should telephone +44 (0) 1871 810 313 for details.

Caerlavrock Castle , Dumfriesshire

Situated within a double moat, this has stood since 1270 when it was built by the Maxwells, Wardens of the West Marches. It was attacked by Robert the Bruce and besieged again in 1640. Close by is the wonderful Wetlands Reserve featuring remarkable colonies of bird life. Details: Open April to September, Monday to Sunday, 9.30am to 6.30pm. October to March: Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 4.30pm; Sunday, 2pm to 4.30pm. Web: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Brodie Castle , near Nairn

Essentially a Z-plan tower house dating from 1567 and although owned by the National Trust for Scotland, it is still lived in by the chief of the clan, Ninian Brodie of Brodie. Lavishly altered and extended in the Victorian era, the rooms are sumptuous with fine paintings and there is a glorious library. Details: Open April to September, 11am to 5.30pm; Sunday, 1.30pm to 5.30pm. Weekends in October. For information call: +44 (0)1309 641 371.

Drum Castle , near Banchory

Originally gifted to the Irvine family by Robert the Bruce, the original keep has been supplemented by a Jacobean mansion and a Victorian extension. It is currently owned and operated by the National Trust for Scotland and contains many treasures. Details: House open Easter until September, 1.30pm to 5.30pm. October, weekends only.

Craigievar Castle , near Banchory

A stylish tower house with classic appeal, this was the home of the Forbes and Sempill families until it was donated to the National Trust for Scotland. Surely one of the best castles in Scotland.  Details: For visiting times and details it is advisable to contact the NTS on +44 (0) 131 243 9300

To the manor born: Thirlestane Castle

Mount Stuart: Written in the stars

The Queen in Scotland

MORE FROM SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

The Kelpies: Go Forth in falkirk

The reintroduction of Beavers in Scotland

Mary, Queen of Scots: Queen of hearts

New issue: Issue 134 is here!

Win a culinary escape to the Isle of Skye

Gleneagles: The glorious playground

Eric Liddell: A man of principles

King Robert the Bruce: Good King Robert

Stirling: City of heroes

The best Highland games in Scotland this summer

Annfield House, Callander: The Gateway to the highlands

Alexander mccall smith interview: The story behind his new book

SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Published six times a year, every issue of Scotland  showcases its stunning landscapes and natural  beauty, and delves deep into Scottish history. From mysterious clans and famous Scots (both past and present), to the hidden histories of the country’s greatest castles and houses, Scotland ‘s pages brim with the soul and secrets of the country. Scotland magazine captures the spirit of this wild and wonderful nation, explores its history and heritage and recommends great places to visit, so you feel at home here, wherever you are in the world.

18 Best Castles in Scotland to Visit

September 22, 2023

Scottish castles are a cool part of the country’s history. They’ve been around for hundreds of years, with each one having its own tale. From middle age hilltop fortresses to grand and royal homes, these stone giants bloom across the land, telling us about Scotland’s past.

So, where to start on your castle tour? Don’t worry! I’ve picked out some of the finest castles in Scotland for you to uncover their stories. You’ll meet old kings and queens, imagine brave knights and scary battles, all while walking around these silent stone giants.

Remember , traveling from one castle to another also means seeing the stunning views of Scotland – green hills, rugged cliffs, and sparkling lakes along the way!

So in this guide, we’ve brought you the 17 best castles in Scotland to visit . No matter what part of the nation you’re visiting, there’ll be a couple you can visit.

Get your crown on, fortify your walls, set up a banquet, and join us. Today, Travelness is visiting the most beautiful castles that Scotland has to offer.

1. Edinburgh Castle

2. stirling castle, 3. eilean donan castle, 4. dunvegan castle, 5. dunrobin castle, 6. st. andrews castle, 7. urquhart castle, 8. inverness castle, 9. blair castle: a scottish wonder, 10. dunnottar castle, 11. glamis castle, 12. blackness castle, 13. balmoral castle, 14. castle fraser, 15. duart castle, 16. castle stalker, 17. kelburn castle, 18. kilchurn castle, frequently asked questions about castles in scotland, before you go.

Easily the most famous castle in Scotland, you’ve all heard of this big boy. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, one of the oldest fortified buildings in Europe, and the most-besieged building in the UK, there’s absolutely loads of history here.

Edinburgh Castle has been used as a prison, a royal residence, a fortification, and more. Because it’s such a popular place to visit, there are loads of things to do inside the castle, including exhibitions on fighting, history and loyalty, and loads of stuff for kids. If you can, try to visit at 1 o’clock, when a daily cannon is fired (except on Sundays).

Built right on the top of a dormant volcano, and looming over the city, it’s an absolutely beautiful place—the views from the castle are great, and the views of the castle from below are even better.

How to get to Edinburgh Castle: From the centre of Edinburgh, it’s really easy to walk to the castle. So no problems there!

• Year built: 11th century onwards
• Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG
• Opening hours: 9:30am until 5pm, 7 days a week
• Entrance fees: £15.50 for adults, £9.30 for kids
• Parking fees: Prices start at £5 per hour, at the nearby NCP Edinburgh Castle Terrace
• Recommend accommodation nearby : The Rutland Hotel & Apartments

Less famous than Edinburgh Castle, but the second city-center castle on our list.

In lots of ways, Stirling Castle is pretty simple to Edinburgh Castle. It’s old, it’s big, and it’s perched on a hill that rises over the city surrounding it.

And on top of that, it was also once a royal residence. Loads of royals lived here, but the most famous was Mary Queen of Scots, who was crowned at the castle (when she was less than a year old—weird).

History here dates back to the 12th century, so there’s plenty of stuff to unpack in a visit. Highlights of a trip included guided tours, costumed characters, dress-up stuff, medieval instruments, and plenty more for both adults and kids. And as an extra little bonus, the castle and gardens are both really beautiful.

Because there’s plenty to do at Stirling Castle, it’s one of the best castles in Scotland for a fun-packed family day out.

How to get to Stirling Castle: It’s right in the center of the city, so it’s easy to reach on foot. Simple!

• Year built: 12th century onwards
• Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling, FK8 1EJ
• Entrance fees: £16 for adults, £9.60 for kids
• Parking fees: £4 for 4 hours, but book in advance
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Wallace View Luxury Apartment

Probably the most famous rural castle in Scotland, people come from all over the UK to take pictures here. Perched right over the shores of Loch Duich (where Loch Duich meets Loch Alsh and Loch Long), I absolutely love the place.

It’s only a tiny ruin on a little island, so it’s not the sort of place you come for endless activities or a full family day out, but it’s ridiculously beautiful.

Originally built as a small chapel, the castle on the island has been built and rebuilt a few different times. Most recently, it was rebuilt with a 20-year project starting in 1912.

If you’re searching for pretty and beautiful (and you probably are, since you’re looking at this list), Eilean Donan Castle is probably the best pick in Scotland.

How to get to Eilean Donan Castle: Car is the best way—the castle is right on the major A87 road. The nearest train station is at Kyle of Lochalsh, around 8 miles (13km) west of the castle.

• Year built: First built in the 12th or 13th century
• Address: Dornie, IV40 8DX, Scotland
• Opening hours: Opens between 9am and 10am, and closes between 4pm and 6pm, depending on the time of year. Closed from Mid-December until early March.
• Entrance fees: £10 for adults, £6 for kids
• Parking fees: Free
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Conchra House

The first island castle on our list, Dunvegan Castle sits on the Isle of Skye, not too far from Eilean Donan Castle.

Dunvegan and its castle are on the western part of Skye, where not enough tourists go, but way more should.

The oldest continuously-inhabited castle in Scotland, this place has had people living in it for over 800 years. And, yep, people still live in it now. Massive, majestic, and beautiful, it’s a lovely place to admire from the outside.

But there’s also lots to enjoy apart from the famous facades.

You get great gardens (with on-site waterfalls!), a ridiculously-attractive waterside location, and popular boat trips to a nearby seal colony.

Dunvegan Castle was built over a period of 600 years, and because it was never really a setting for many fights or battles, it’s one of the best-preserved castles in Scotland.

How to get to Dunvegan Castle: Drive to Dunvegan, then head slightly north to the castle. There’s no train, and buses are irregular. So if you’re relying on public transport, just hitchhike instead.

• Year built: From the 1200s to the 1850s
• Address: MacLeod Estate, Dunvegan House, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye, IV55 8WF
• Opening hours: 10am until 5:30pm, 7 days a week (but only from mid-May until mid-October)
• Entrance fees: £14 for adults, £9 for kids
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Dunvegan Castle Laundry Cottage

Dunrobin Castle is on the eastern coast of northern Scotland, so you’ll drive right past it if you’re tackling the North Coast 500 (one of the world’s best road trips).

Like Dunvegan Castle, Dunrobin Castle is also a family home, and people have been living here (continuously!) since the early 1300s. Partially planned by one of the people who helped to design the Houses of Parliament, this place is one of the biggest and best architectural wonders in Scotland . It’s like someone took the words ‘grand’ and ‘majestic,’ mixed them with concrete, and somehow transformed them into a building.

Compared to most other castles on this list, Dunrobin Castle is pretty unique. It’s been assembled in the style of a French chateau, and it’s a residential place rather than a conflict site.

The inside of the castle is really elegant and ornate, the gardens are massive, and the place hosts regular falconry displays.

How to get to Dunrobin Castle: If you’re driving, it’s right on the main A9 road. If you want to take the train, the castle has its own train station (yeah, seriously).

• Year built: From around 1275 onwards
• Address: Dunrobin Castle, Golspie, KW10 6SF
• Opening hours: 10am until 5pm, May to September, and 10:30am until 4:30pm in October. Closed the rest of the year.
• Entrance fees: £12.50 for adults, £7.50 for kids
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Golspie Inn

The most ruinous castle we’ve featured so far, St. Andrews Castle is (unsurprisingly) situated in the town of St. Andrews, Scotland’s so-called ‘Home of Golf’.

Around 50 miles (80km) north of Edinburgh, it’s a popular day trip from the city, a top location for photographers, history buffs, architecture fans and everyone in between.

Kings James I and James III are both associated with the place. The former was educated here, while the latter was born in the castle.

The castle’s most famous feature is its notorious ‘bottle dungeon,’ a claustrophobic dankfest that’s only 4.6 meters deep. Loads of people were killed and tortured here, in one of the most horrible dungeons in Scotland (that said, most dungeons are probably pretty horrible).

How to get to St Andrews Castle: If you’re in the town already, the castle is really central. But if you’re driving from elsewhere, follow the main A91 or A915 roads. There’s no train station in St. Andrews, but you can get relatively regular buses from many places, including Edinburgh.

• Year built: Around 1200
• Address: The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR
• Opening hours: 10am until 4pm from October to March, and 9:30am until 5pm from April to September
• Entrance fees: £9 for adults, £5.40 for kids
• Parking fees: Various on-street parking in the town, starting at free
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Kinnettles Hotel & Spa

Perched over the lengthy shores of iconic Loch Ness, this is one of the most famous castles in the UK.

Definitely one of the most-visited castles in Scotland (since Loch Ness is one of the most-visited attractions in Scotland), it’s beautiful, and loads of people love the place. It’s pretty central in relation to the rest of the loch, close to Drumnadrochit—so it’s really easy to visit no matter where you’re staying along Loch Ness.

Another ruin, there’s not a whole load to do here, but it’s a great place to grab some snaps. And the guided tours are pretty good too. Years ago, this was one of the biggest and most significant castles in Scotland, the site of countless conflicts and bloody battles. During Scotland’s historic fights for independence, control of the castle frequently changed hands.

The place was then partially blown up in the late 17th century, and has continued to crumble ever since.

How to get to Urquhart Castle: If you’re driving, it’s right on the A82 road. There’s no train station nearby, but it’s possible to take a bus from Inverness.

• Year built: 13th century onwards
• Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6XJ
• Opening hours: 9:30am until 6pm from April to September, 9:30am until 5pm in October, and 9:30am until 4:30pm from November to March
• Entrance fees: £9.60 for adults, £5.80 for kids
• Parking fees: Free with tickets, but must be booked in advance
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Drovers Lodge

Another city-center castle, Inverness Castle sits high above the Ness, the river that runs through the city. From up here, in the north tower, you get the best possible panoramic view of the city.

Aside from that, there’s not a huge amount to do here. You can go up the tower and wander around the grounds, but the inside of the rest of the castle isn’t open to the public (at least for now).

Like lots of the castles we’ve featured on this list, Inverness Castle has been besieged on plenty of occasions, and it’s even been set on fire a couple of times.

Fun fact: the place features on the Scottish £50 note.

How to get to Inverness Castle: If you’re already in Inverness, the place is really central, so you can just walk right up. Easy!

• Year built: Originally in 1057
• Address: Inverness Castle, Inverness, IV2 3EG
• Opening hours: 9am until 8pm, 7 days a week
• Entrance fees: £6 for adults, £4 for kids
• Parking fees: On-street, nearby, from £2 for 2 hours
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Easdale House Apartments

Located in the heartland of Scotland, Blair Castle is one of the top castles you must visit. It stands out with its white exterior, making it a captivating sight to behold.

Blair Castle is a special place with a rich history. It dates back to 1269 (that is over 700 years ago) , and it has seen a lot of events unfold.

The castle was home to Clan Murray, a large Scottish family. The leader of this family was known as the ‘Duke of Atholl’ and he had his own private army: the Atholl Highlanders . This makes Blair Castle the only place in Europe where a private individual has an official army.

Inside, the castle is packed with interesting things to see. There are over 30 rooms filled with ancient weapons, paintings, and furniture from different centuries. Some of the treasures you can find include old muskets (that’s a kind of gun) , swords, and even a stag’s horn that is over a thousand years old!

Another unique thing about Blair Castle is its beautiful gardens. The Hercules Garden is a walled garden filled with colorful, blooming flowers and fruit trees. There’s even a huge pond in the middle where you can see ducks and swans swimming around.

Close to the castle, there’s a lovely wood called Diana’s Grove. This forest has some of the tallest trees in Britain. You can take a stroll and enjoy the peace and quiet in this forest.

To visit Blair Castle, you’ll need to take a short drive from the town of Pitlochry. It’s easy to reach if you’re driving, but you can also take a bus or a taxi.

Just remember, it’s a good idea to check the Blair Castle website before you visit. Sometimes, parts of the castle might be closed for special events.

Here is the important information you might need:

• Year built : 13th century
• Address : Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, PH18 5TL
• Opening hours : From 10 am until 5 pm – April to October
• Entrance costs : £17 for adults, £11 for kids (children under 5 enter for free)
• Parking fees : Free of charge
• Where to stay nearby : Atholl Arms Hotel

As you can see, a trip to Blair Castle can be quite an adventure. It certainly deserves a spot in the list of the best castles in Scotland. So if you’re in the area, give it a visit. It’s definitely worth it!

Halfway between Inverness and Edinburgh (and just south of Aberdeen), you have Dunnottar Castle.

Without doubt one of my favorite castles in Scotland (and definitely one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland, if you’re more interested in setting over architecture), it’s dramatic, atmospheric and alluring.

Set right on the edge of a rocky ocean headland, Dunnottar Castle sits on rugged cliffs that measure in at 160 feet (49 meters). Fortifications have existed here for more than 2000 years, but the current buildings have been around for about 700.

The walk to the castle takes you up a lengthy flight of stairs—and both at the top and at the bottom, you get brilliant views.

How to get to Dunnottar Castle: If you’re driving, the castle is just south of Stonehaven, down a small road. The nearest train station is in Stonehaven.

• Year built: The surviving buildings are from around the 15th century
• Address: Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, AB39 2TL
• Opening hours: 9am until 6pm from April to September, and 10am until 5pm from October to March
• Entrance fees: £8 for adults, £4 for kids
• Recommend accommodation nearby : The Ship Inn

Another inhabited castle, this sprawling complex was mentioned in Macbeth (even though Macbeth never actually had any connection to the place—Shakespeare is a big stinking liar).

Just north of Dundee, Glamis Castle is a popular day trip from both Dundee and Perth. The exteriors are beautiful, but the real magic here is inside the castle, which is one of the most ornate places in Scotland.

On guided tours, you’ll see some of the most grand paintings, furniture and fixtures you’ve probably ever seen.

The massive gardens are also great. They’re so big that they have waymarked trails inside of them; the longest clocking in at around a 30-minute walk.

During various parts of the year, these grounds also host events, including exhibitions, performances, car shows, Christmas markets and Santa’s grottos.

Fun fact : the mother of the incumbent Queen was brought up in Glamis Castle.

Related article : Top Best Castles in and nearby Dundee

How to get to Glamis Castle: If you’re driving, the castle is relatively close to the main A90 road. There’s no nearby train station.

• Year built: Originally around the 10th and 11th centuries
• Address: Glamis Castle, Forfar, DD8 1RJ
• Opening hours: 10am until 5pm, 7 days a week
• Entrance fees: £15.50 for adults, £10 for kids
• Parking fees: Included in the ticket price
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Farmtoun Cottage Apartment

Another great day trip from Edinburgh , Blackness Castle is pretty unique. Built in the shape of a boat, it’s poetically known as ‘the ship that never sailed.’

Assembled on a hefty headland in a wide part of the Forth River, Blackness Castle and its surroundings are super beautiful, and it’s a great place to get some good photographs. Because it’s so pretty, it’s been used as a filming site for lots of movies and TV shows.

Most famously, the place was used as a state prison, and once held an Archbishop.

Really close to Blackness Castle is Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.

How to get to Blackness Castle: If you’re driving from Edinburgh, follow the M9. There’s no nearby train station, and the bus connections aren’t great.

• Year built: 15th century
• Address: Blackness, Linlithgow, EH49 7NH
• Opening hours: 10am until 4pm, year-round, but closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Entrance fees: £6 for adults, £3.60 for kids
• Parking fees: Free with an entry ticket
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Parkhead House

When the British royal family go to Scotland on vacation, they go to Balmoral Castle (which they own). Sitting inside Cairngorms National Park (the biggest national park in the UK), it’s absolutely huge.

Technically, the place is actually a stately home rather than a castle, but it’s called a castle anyway (no, I don’t know the difference either). The current home was built in 1856 after the original home on the site was deemed “too small” by the royals who’d bought it (how ridiculous).

It sits on grounds measuring in at around 50,000 acres (that’s around 25,000 soccer pitches). Because it’s so massive, it has grouse, deer, ponies, Highland cattle, and loads of forestry and farmland. You can explore its expanses on 4WD expeditions, or just good old hikes.

If you want to explore the inside of Balmoral Castle, you can only do so on a guided tour—to make sure you don’t walk in on the Queen having a shower or whatever.

Entry is expensive (£15 for adults), even though the royal family have loads of money already. But if you’re interested in them, you’ll probably think it’s worth the cost.

If you want to visit another close-by castle, Braemar Castle is just 8 miles (13km) away.

How to get to Balmoral Castle: It’s possible to get buses from some bigger settlements around the castle, but there are no nearby train stations. If you’re driving (which is the easiest option), the castle is situated on the main A93 road.

• Year built: 1856
• Address: Balmoral Estates, Ballater, AB35 5TB
• Opening hours: Typically 10am until 5pm, 7 days a week, from late April until early August. Closed during other months.
• Entrance fees: £15 for adults, £6 for kids
• Parking fees: £5 per car per day at the Crathie Post Office
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Howe of Torbeg

Just west of Aberdeen, Castle Fraser is a popular day trip from the city.

This one looks like something from a fairytale. It’s a pretty fun place for a family day out, with secret staircases, hidden trap doors, a walled garden, and a woodland play area.

And from the top of the round tower, you get excellent views of the castle, its grounds, and the surrounding area.

In the grounds, you get woodland, animals, farmland, a pond, and two waymarked trails. Inside, you get beautiful decor, and a massive collection of family portraits. All in all, it’s an excellent place to visit, and it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland.

How to get to Fraser Castle: From Aberdeen, it’s only a short drive to the castle. Without a car, you’ll struggle to access the place, which is down some pretty small country lanes.

• Year built: 16th and 17th centuries
• Address: Sauchen, Inverurie, AB51 7LD
• Opening hours: 10:30am until 5pm, Friday to Monday, from the end of April to the end of October. Otherwise closed.
• Entrance fees: £14.50 for adults, £11 for kids
• Parking fees: Free for members; paid otherwise
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Woodland Lodge Mither Tap

The second (and last!) island castle we’ve featured so far, Duart Castle sits on the Isle of Mull, west of Oban. Right on the edge of a little coastal crag, it’s alluring and atmospheric, and I reckon this is definitely one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland .

It’s most famous for its dungeons, which are pretty spooky and scary. Other than that, you also get an ornate Banqueting Hall, great insights into Clan history, and some lovely nearby walks.

The place belongs to the Maclean Clan (that just means ‘family’), making it one of the last surviving privately-owned Clan castles in the nation.

How to get to Duart Castle: You can only reach the Isle of Mull by ferry. Once you’re there, the nearest significant settlement to the castle is Salen. It’s easiest to drive or hitchhike from there.

• Year built: Originally in the 18th century
• Address: Duart Castle, Isle of Mull, PA64 6AP
• Opening hours: Typically Saturdays to Wednesdays from around 10:30am until 4:30pm
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Isle Of Mull Hotel and Spa

Just east of the Isle of Mull, and back towards the mainland, is Castle Stalker.

This place is massively unique. It sits on a tiny island, just off Scotland’s west coast. It’s a privately-owned place, but they organize a small number of organized tours per year. You can only access the castle by boat, which takes you to the island over a short trip on the water. You can’t visit without a tour.

Since the 14th century, when this place was built, there’ve been loads of battles here. Weirdly, it once traded hands as part of a drunken bet.

If you like unique and unusual (or visiting places without countless crowds), you’ll absolutely love the place.

How to get to Castle Stalker: Park up at the Old Inn, a close-by pub on the main A828 road. There’s no nearby train station, and hitchhiking is your best bet if you’re traveling by public transport.

• Year built: Originally around 1320
• Address: Castle Stalker, Appin, PA38 4BL
• Opening hours: Tour times change every year
• Entrance fees: £20 for adults, £10 for kids
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Appin Bay View

Definitely the most unusual castle on our list, Kelburn is more like some sort of urban experiment than a historic castle (from the outside, anyway). Surprisingly, it’s existed (in various forms) since around 1143.

Covered in brilliant street art, it’s routinely nominated as one of the best urban art centers in the world. But once you get inside, the interiors completely contrast with the spray painted facades—you get classy furniture, beautiful decor, and lots of family portraits.

You can only access some parts of the castle’s insides, and only during certain times of the year—the castle is still the private home of the Earl of Glasgow and his family.

Around 33 miles (53km) west of Glasgow, it’s a popular place for a day trip, and it’s great for families. Aside from the castle itself, there’s also loads more on offer, including yurts, a campsite, play areas, a so-called ‘secret forest’, waterfalls , alpacas, sheep, goats, trails, walks, and plenty more family fun.

For an action-packed day out, it’s absolutely one of the best castles in Scotland.

How to get to Kelburn Castle: If you’re driving, follow the A737 road west from Glasgow before turning off the A760. If you prefer to use public transport, get the train to Fairlie.

• Year built: 1143 onwards
• Address: Kelburn Estate, Fairlie, Largs, KA29 0BE
• Opening hours: 10am until 4pm, 7 days a week
• Entrance fees: Free
• Parking fees: £5 per car per day
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Haylie Hotel

Last up on our list of the most beautiful castles in Scotland, it’s Kilchurn Castle.

Relatively close to both Duart Castle and Castle Stalker, this one is just west of the northern part of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. And like loads of the castles we’ve already featured, it’s perched over the shores of a loch. It sits on the eastern edge of Loch Awe (the longest loch in the nation), and it’s surrounded by lofty peaks.

Because of its scenic location and imposing size, it’s another of the most-photographed castles in the nation. You can get great shots from close to the castle, but also by clambering and climbing around its surroundings. You could probably spend days photographing this one and still want to get more shots.

Kilchurn Castle was built and owned by the hugely-powerful Campbell family, but it was abandoned by the end of the 18th century. There’s not much to do on a visit (no tour, no cafe, and no extra activities), but just looking at it is enough.

How to get to Kilchurn Castle: If you’re driving, it’s on the A85 road between Tyndrum and Oban. If you want to travel by train, get off at Loch Awe railway station, probably the most beautifully-situated train station in Scotland.

• Year built: Mid-1400s
• Address: Lochawe, Dalmally, PA33 1AF
• Opening hours: 9:30am to 5:30pm from April until September. Closed from October until March.
• Recommend accommodation nearby : Ben Cruachan Inn

How many castles are there in Scotland?

There are more than 1,500 castles in Scotland. Some people even reckon there are up to 3,000—but because loads of the older and battle-worn ones are now in ruins, it’s probably closer to the smaller number.

I haven’t counted them in person, so I’m not sure of the objective truth. But whatever it is, Scotland is one of the most castled nations in the world—so if you like fortresses and fortifications, make sure you visit.

Why does Scotland have so many castles?

Mainly because the nation has been an historic site of war and conflict, and a popular home and escape for endless royals.

Some castles were built to defend against invaders. Others were built by invaders, as a show of strength.

Other Scottish castles were built as forts or homes, especially by royals, famous families, and other rich people.

How many abandoned castles are there in Scotland?

There are hundreds of abandoned castles in Scotland. 

How many there really are depends on who’s doing the counting, what they consider a castle, and what exactly you mean by ‘abandoned.’ But most of Scotland’s castles are now ruins, rather than in any liveable (or complete) state.

So if to you, ‘abandoned’ means ‘ruinous’ (even partially), here’s the answer to your question: most of Scotland’s castles are abandoned.

How many castles does the royal family own in Scotland?

The royal family owns just 1 of the castles in Scotland. That’s Balmoral Castle, in the Cairngorms National Park, which they use as their Scottish vacation spot.

The British royal family also own three more properties in Scotland: Birkhall, Craigowan Lodge, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Some of them look like castles, but Balmoral is the only one that’s officially a castle.

There are lots more Scottish castles with links to the royal family, but they’re now owned by other people and institutions (or they don’t even exist anymore).

Who owns the castles in Scotland?

Different people (and companies) own different castles in Scotland.  Some are owned privately (one by the royal family, and others by many more rich families), while some are owned by National Trust for Scotland or Historic Scotland .

What is the biggest castle in Scotland?

Edinburgh Castle is the biggest castle in Scotland.  And when you see it, that won’t surprise you—it’s absolutely massive, made up of various different buildings. It looms over the city of Edinburgh and sits on top of an ancient volcano.

What is the oldest castle in Scotland?

Castle Sween is the oldest still-standing castle in Scotland. Or at least, the oldest still-standing castle in Scotland that’s still in its original state (relatively speaking).

Lots of experts have lots of different opinions on this one, but Castle Sween is the closest consensus they can come up with. It’s worth noting that there are older castles in Scotland, but some of them are now tiny ruins, or have been massively altered from their original state, or just don’t even exist anymore.

Anway, Castle Sween is in the western part of southern Scotland, north of Arran. It overlooks Loch Sween.

Do people still live in castles in Scotland?

In some of them, yeah. Most of Scotland’s castles are now uninhabited, but a small few aren’t. Some of the best and most famous inhabited castles in Scotland are Dunrobin Castle, Dunvegan Castle, Balmoral Castle and Glamis Castle.

Some are inhabited full time, as actual houses (fancy!), while others are used as temporary residences (as holiday homes and city escapes and all that).

How much does a castle cost in Scotland?

If you want to buy a castle in Scotland, it’ll cost you anything between £1 million (around $1.37 million), and way, way more. Here are some castles that are (or were) recently on the property market. Also, can I borrow ten pounds, please?

How much is it to rent a castle in Scotland?

Anything from £1000 ($1,370) a week to upwards of £15,000 ($20,600) a night, depending on how big, reputable, popular and ornate the castle is.

If you’re interested in renting a castle cos you think you’re dead posh or whatever, this website is one of many companies who offer that type of service. You can stay at this castle for example, or this one near Glasgow.

That’s everything you need to know about the 17 most beautiful castles in Scotland. Thanks for reading!

If you want to know anything else about Scotland, we have plenty more articles on our site. Check out our guides to the best road trips in Scotland , the best lochs in Scotland , and the top 23 reasons you should visit the place .

And if you just can’t get enough of castle-spotting action, have a wander over to our guide on the best castles in and near Dundee and the best castles in Northumberland .

See you next time kids!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

Latest Posts

How to Choose a Tartan (as an American)

Read more →

Horror in Scotland: Woman Attacked by a Furious Highland Cow, Suffers Collapsed Lung and Broken Ribs

VisitScotland to Shutter All 25 Tourist Information Centers Amid Shift to Digital Strategy

Travel Guides You Can Trust

About Travelness

Brand Assets

Recent Posts

Tours & Activities

Tours in Europe

Digital Security

© 2024 Travelness. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use - Privacy policy

• Top Destinations
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Tokyo, Japan
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• London, United Kingdom
• All Destinations
• Upcoming Experiences
• Walking Tours
• Small-Group Tours
• Tours for Kids
• Museum Tours
• Food, Wine and Market Tours
• Newly Added Tours
• Audio Guides
• Pre-Trip Lectures
• Admin Dashboard
• My Favorites
• Cookies Preferences
• Client Orders
• Monthly Commissions
• My Advisor Profile
• Advisor Toolkit
• Guide Dashboard

Credit Balance

Transactions are based on current exchange rates and performed in USD. There maybe slight variations in the price estimates.

14 Stunning Castles in Scotland for History Lovers - Bonus Map Included

Explore Dunnottar Castle! Image Credit: Connor Mollison

Scotland is famed for its rugged landscape, ever-changing climate, and rich history. Scattered among its rolling hills and winding roads the average explorer can find an array of castles that tell individual stories and tantalizing tales. Touring some of the oldest castles in Scotland is a fascinating way to understand Scottish history and the country on the path less traveled. These living museums are certainly worth the hours they might take to drive to. We’ve come up with a list of our essential castles in Scotland for any visitor wanting to admire medieval ramparts, romantic ruins, and spooky staircases.

Eager to explore the charms of Scotland from the comfort of home?

Check out our latest Context Lecture:   The Scottish Highlands and Skye: An Introduction .  Led by the same world-class experts as our walking tours, Context Lectures are great to inspire your future travels, or the perfect accompaniment to learn about the destination of your upcoming trip.

Edinburgh Castle

It wouldn’t be a Scottish castle list without the King/Queen of the castles at the heart of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. Name a cooler setting than an extinct volcano for a castle? Perched atop this craggy mass, Edinburgh castle is the castle in Scotland. Legend has it that if students visit in the first year of University, they’ll fail their degree. Get there at 1 pm so you can hear the atmospheric One O’Clock Gun performance. (See our collection of expert-led  Edinburgh tours  or check out our selection of online seminars all about Scotland  to see if we're running any Edinburgh seminars).

Inveraray Castle

This neoclassical/Gothic revival beast of a structure boasts epic views of Loch Fyne and even more impressive Beauvais tapestries in its drawing-room. Since the 18th century, Inveraray has been the seat of the Dukes of Argyll and the 13th Duke of Argyll and family still live in a part of the building. The remaining sections are open to the public (and you may recognize some of its architecture from the Downton Abbey set.)

Glamis Castle

For the Shakespeare fans, this castle dates back to the tenth or eleventh century and was a key feature in Macbeth. It’s been in the Lyon family since the 14th century and was once a hunting lodge before it was repurposed as a castle. Visitors can admire the red sandstone walls, pointed turrets, and grandeur style of the late Queen Mother’s residence. 

Drummond Castle Gardens

These gardens are perhaps more recently known for their star role in the TV series Outlander or the film Rob Roy (1995). Although the 15th-century castle is not open to the public, the Perthshire gardens are worth a trip. The expansive space is one of Europe’s (yes, not just Scotland) most impressive and important gardens. The lush landscape has been described by Historic Environment Scotland as "the best example of formal terraced gardens in Scotland”. Note the 17th-century sundial at the center of the unusual St Andrews Cross design. Best to visit in full summer or autumnal bloom. 

Dunrobin Castle

This mighty structure has donned many architectural hats, with the first fortifications dating back to 1401. It’s also been the site of conflict and conquest, most notably a siege during the Jacobite Uprising of 1745. Today, the seat of the Clan Sutherland is renowned for its fairytale-like appearance after adopting a French design in 1845. It wins the prize for its uniqueness and the largest number of rooms in the Northern Highlands (189 in total). This alone makes it an important contender for castles in Scotland the eager tourist should visit.

For the Scottish history buffs, the  The Secret Language of Fans: Jacobite Women in Scotland with Irene Mariani   seminar might be for you.

Craigievar Castle

Admire the pink hues of this 17th century Scottish Baronial castle, nestled in the foothills of Grampian Mountains, Aberdeenshire. This elegant castle adorned with turrets, corbelling, gargoyles, and a demure seven stories, is a perfect example for architectural lovers to admire the Scottish Baronial style. 

Eilean Donan Castle

This medieval castle lay in ruins until the mid-1900s when it (fortunately) was restored to its spectacular medieval state. The castle stands majestically on an island overlooking three picturesque sea lochs: Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long. Eilean Donan has played a significant role in Scottish history with the castle acting as a stronghold for the Macrae and Mackenzie clans. It was partially destroyed in the Jacobite Uprising of 1719. Not all visitors flock to Eilean Donan Castle for its iconic history, however; many recognize the castle landscapes from films such as James Bond or Highlander .

Duart Castle

Located on a hill overlooking the Sound of Mull (on the Isle of Mull), this castle has its historic roots in the 13th century. Its strategic position perched upon a high crag allowed it control of the surrounding waterways. In the 14th century, the castle was gifted to a Scottish chief, Lachlan Maclean as part of his bride-to-be (Mary MacDonald)’s dowry. It lay in ruins from the 18th century onwards until it was saved by Sir Fitzroy Maclean in 1910 and thankfully reconstructed thereafter. Be sure to absorb the stunning surroundings of one of the best castles in Scotland and head indoors to marvel at the Clan exhibition, the impressive Great Hall, and some bedrooms.

Balmoral Castle

The official Scottish residence of the British Royal Family since 1852 when the estate was purchased by Prince Albert. The existing castle was considered too small for Queen Victoria and Albert, so a new royal residence was constructed and the old castle was destroyed. Today, visitors can admire pepper-pot turrets and a large tower. It’s easy to see why the Royals head up north to Aberdeenshire when they want a change of scene from London’s Buckingham Palace and a good dose of Scottish fresh air. The grounds and a number of rooms are open to the public during the summer.

Floors Castle

A Southerly Scottish castle and another significant house with royalty associations, Floors is the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and home to the Duke and Duchess of Roxburgh and family. The castle was first built in the 1720s and serves as a fine example of Georgian architecture thanks to its symmetrical style. The 19th century saw later additions of battlements and turrets which give the castle an added effect. Floors is filled with fine art collections, intricate tapestries, and impressive porcelain. It’s even said that a holly tree marks the exact spot where King James II was killed in a siege in 1460. 

Castle Fraser

Construction on this fine Scottish Baronial castle began in 1575 by the 6th Laird of Fraser and was completed in 1636. After a bout of modernization in the late 1700s to be in a more classical style, the castle is one of the grandest Castles of Mar. This five-story tower house is known for its romantic look and a star appearance in The Queen (2006) starring Helen Mirren. Rumour has it the ghost of a murdered princess roams the castle and the tinkling of an unaccompanied piano can be heard. Spooky Scotland - we dare you to visit.

Dunnottar Castle

The setting of this Scottish masterpiece is nothing short of spellbinding. Perched atop a cragged headland, the ruins of this medieval fortress offer a glimpse into how strategically placed and impenetrable this castle was. Dunnottar has played a crucial role in Scottish history, perhaps most known for hiding the Scottish crown jewels from Oliver Cromwell and his invading army during the Civil War in the 17th century. Its been the home of the Earls of Marischal, William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, and the Marquis of Montrose. 

Stirling Castle

This beast is not only one of the most important castles in Scotland, but one of the largest too. There’s a Scottish saying “He who holds Stirling holds Scotland” and there’s no wonder why this castle perched atop Stirling Sill garners such acclaim. Stirling Castle has survived eight sieges and multiple coronations, including Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors are welcome to climb up to reach its lush gardens and admire the medieval architecture dating back mainly to the 15th and 16th centuries. It’s particularly easy to visit given its location to Stirling itself and a hop and a skip from the train station.

Fyvie Castle

Edwardian interiors containing spectacular paintings and arms and an intact Scottish baronial castle on the exterior make for an impressive duo as we welcome this castle to our favorite castles of Scotland list. One of the most intriguing architectural facts is that each powerful family owner of this castle - Preston, Meldrum, Seton, Gordon, and Leith - added a new tower. The tower’s dates span from 1400 to 1890 and this sturdy Aberdeenshire castle is famously known to be haunted. Visit at your own risk (and be sure to admire the stunning sweeping staircase when you’re inside). 

Castles in Scotland Map

We hope this map is helpful in order to find out more about the locations of whichever castles in Scotland remain on your list. So with that in mind, pack your bags, your wellies, and your waterproofs and get ready to explore the Scottish countryside and some of the most famous Scottish castles. 

Traveling to Scotland and looking to brush up your knowledge pre-trip? Whether you’re looking for an introduction to the Scottish Highlands  or want more on the history of Edinburgh , Context online seminars and courses has you covered. If you’re after the real deal and are seeking Scotland tours , we have a team of experts and scholars who would be delighted to show you around their wonderful country. 

Want to learn with a true expert? Get a comprehensive view with one of Context's  tours , or learn more about your favorite destination or topic with our virtual, live-taught  courses  and  seminars . 

Other stories you may be interested in: 

• Things to do in Scotland: A Comprehensive List to Inspire Your Next Itinerary 
• 5 Unforgettable Day Trips from Edinburgh
• 36 Hours of Things to Do in London
• Things to do in London with Kids

Read More Stories

Even More from Context

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Keep Exploring

Explore Tours

Join walking tours with top experts all over the globe.

Browse Our Cities

• Our Experts
• Working with Context
• View All Cities
• Sustainable Tourism
• Refer a Friend for $50
• Travel Updates
• Advisor Login
• Expert Portal
• Privacy Statement & Security
• Cancellation Policy

Best Castles in Scotland

With such a rich and fascinating history, Scotland has always had a romantic aura of legend surrounding it. This is the place where medieval fortresses, clifftop ruins, ancient abbeys, and other architectural and natural wonders form a unique and dramatic landscape.

There is nothing, however, that contributes more to this aura of the country than the numerous Scottish castles that dot the rolling hills and mountains.

This is a list of the most stunning castles to visit in Scotland if you want to enjoy the architectural and historical splendour of this small but packed country.

Map of Castles in Scotland

30 Famous Scottish Castles to Visit

1.edinburgh castle.

For the capital of a country famous for its castles, Edinburgh does not disappoint. Sitting in the centre of the city on a rocky hilltop, Edinburgh Castle is, in fact, the most visited castle in all of Scotland.

The history of the castle goes back many centuries, and it is heavily intertwined with the history of Scotland itself, being the setting of many historical episodes and events.

This is where the Crown Jewels of Scotland are now stored, after being hidden away for centuries. On the grounds of the castle, visitors can now find the 12th-century St Margaret chapel and several museums.

Where:  Castlehill, Edinburgh When:  11th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

2. Braemar Castle

Built as a family residence by the Earl of Mar at the beginning of the 17th-century, Braemar Castle is an iconic architectural sight with a lovely history. Besides being a private residence, it served other goals as well over the years, being at times hunting lodge and even fortress and garrison.

Situated in the Cairngorms National Park, this fairy tale structure with imposing turrets is now home to the Farquharson family.

The interiors include collections of personal items of historic value, along with period furniture and memorabilia.

Where:  Braemar in Aberdeenshire When:  1628 Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information.

3. Balmoral Castle

Located 50 miles away from Aberdeen, in the north-eastern part of Scotland, Balmoral Castle has been a private holiday home of the royal family since the mid-19th–century.

Prince Albert purchased the original historic castle in 1852 but decided to replace it with new construction of a larger size, and he made personal contributions to the final design.

Today, the large estate, surrounded by thousands of acres of protected woodland, welcomes visitors with guided tours, a gift shop, a café, and various exhibitions.

Where: Ballater When:  1856 Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

4. Blair Castle

Home of the Atholl family since the 13th-century, Blair Castle has been the scene of many turbulent historical events, but also of many uneventful and happy family moments.

During its 700-year history, the castle has suffered many style modifications, according to the needs and preferences of its residents.

Built in the Scottish baronial architecture, the castle presents many 18th-century features. The grounds of the castle include the gorgeous walled Hercules Garden and the ruins of St Bride’s Kirk.

Where:  6 miles from Pitlochry When:  13th Century Open for visit:  Yes, for more information, click here .

5. Inveraray Castle

Built-in the 18th-century to replace an older castle and to serve as the seat of the Dukes of Argyll, Inveraray Castle is an example of the Gothic Revival architectural style.

Set in a picturesque location on the shore of Loch Fyne, in western Scotland, the castle can be easily reached from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Besides the gorgeous façade and interiors, the castle is surrounded by acres of lovely gardens.

Although open to visitors, a section of the castle still functions as the private residence of the current Duke of Argyll and his family.

Where:  Inveraray, western Scotland When:  18th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

Click here to book a day trip from Edinburgh to the West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles that includes a visit to Inveraray Castle and Doune Castle . Please note Inveraray Castle is open to the public from April – October.

6. Cawdor Castle

Set in the romantic Highlands , a few miles west of Nairn, Cawdor Castle was built in the 15th-century to serve as a residence for the Thanes of Cawdor family, which still owns the castle today.

One of the major attractions of the castle is the unique art collection of 20th-century paintings, drawings, and sculptural works, but also the beautiful gardens.

The castle is also famous for its connection to Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”, where it appears as the residence of King Macbeth. However, the events in the play take place in the 11th-century, when the castle hadn’t been built yet.

Visitors will find a gift shop, a book shop, a restaurant, and a snack bar on the grounds.

Where: Cawdor, Nairn When:  Late 14th century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

7. Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is, undoubtedly, one of the most stunning castles to see in Scotland and in Europe .

Besides being set in the scenic landscape of the Highlands, the castle was built on a little island in the middle of a sea loch, and it’s only reachable via an old stone footbridge.

Although severely damaged in the 17th-century, the castle was restored in the early 20th-century and has maintained its magnetism. The views over the Isle of Skye are a great bonus for visitors. The interiors are equally fascinating, with displays of various artefacts and weaponry.

Where:  Dornie When:  13th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

Click here to book a day trip from Inverness to the Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle.

8. Dunnottar Castle

Located in Aberdeenshire, on the northeastern coast of Scotland, Dunnottar Castle is one of the best castles to visit in Scotland. Sitting on a high clifftop overlooking the North Sea, the castle benefits from this dramatic setting, which adds an otherworldly charm to it.  

Built around the 15th- or 16th-century, the castle’s ruins have been restored, and public access is allowed. With the sea as a backdrop, the Dunnottar is a captivating place, only a few miles away from Stonehaven, a small town in Aberdeenshire.

Where:  South of Stonehaven When:  15th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

Click here to book your day trip from Aberdeen to Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside

Check out my other posts about Scottish Castles:

• The best castles near Glasgow
• The best castles near Oban
• The best castles near Loch Lomond
• The best castles near Aberdeen
• The best castles near Inverness

9. Glamis Castle

From a historical standpoint, Glamis Castle is one of the most famous castles in Scotland, and it’s located an hour northeast of Edinburgh. The most known resident of the castle is Janet Douglas, or Lady Glamis, who was accused of witchcraft in the Middle Ages.

Today, the castle is most popular for being the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth and the birthplace of Princess Margaret. The castle is now the residence of the Earls of Kinghorne and Strathmore, but both the interiors and the lovely gardens are accessible to the public.

Where:  besides the village of Glamis When: 14th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

10. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is among the largest and best castles in Scotland, and it should be a must-see on your list. Easy to reach from either Edinburgh or Glasgow, the luxurious property is famous for taking part in many important episodes in Scottish history, including the Independence Wars, which is why it is seen as a symbol of Scotland.

This is also where the Scottish Royals were crowned. Today, the fortress’s former days of glory are revived through parades and historic plays where costumed characters walk the grounds accompanied by medieval music.

The construction seen today is from the 15th-century, although the oldest parts are from the 12th-century.

Where:  Stirling When: 12th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

Click here to book a day trip from Edinburgh to Loch Lomond, Trossachs & Stirling Castle

11. Dunrobin Castle

Located in the northern Highlands near Dornoch, Dunrobin Castle is the largest castle in the area. Dating back to the early 13th-century, the castle was the residence of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland.

Besides the interesting history of the place, visitors are mostly intrigued by the stunning architecture, with the exterior featuring elements of the French and Gothic Revival style and the interior preserving 13th-century elements.

Visitors can explore both the castle and the surrounding gardens and woodland.

Where:  Golspie When:  1845 Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information .

Click here to book a day trip from Inverness to John O’Groats and the Far North that includes a visit to Dunrobin Castle.

12. Floors Castle

The largest inhabited castle in Scotland, Floors Castle can be found in the south-east of the country, in a picturesque setting with views over the River Tweed. Built at the beginning of the 18th-century, Floors was meant from the beginning to become the extravagant residence of the Dukes of Roxburgh.

The splendid interiors filled with art collections, tapestries, and valuable antiques are a testament to the castle’s rich history.

The Duke and Duchess of Roxburgh live at the castle together with their family, but the castle and the surrounding areas are open to visitors.

Where:  Kelso When: 1721 Style:  Βaronial Open for visit: For more information, click here .

13. Fyvie Castle

Fyvie Castle is another impressive Scottish landmark. Located in Aberdeenshire, the castle has an 800-year history, and it is filled with important artefacts and antiques that talk about its former days.

Besides the captivating interiors, the castle is a stunning sight in itself, with its four-story-high Tower House and 18th-century walled gardens.

What makes Fyvie Castle so attractive to most visitors is a legend which says that the castle is haunted by a woman whose remains were found in one of the chambers during the renovation work in the early 20th-century.

Where:  Turriff When:  13th Century Open for visit: Yes, for more information, click here .

14. Kilchurn Castle

Kilchurn Castle is a Scottish castle that impresses with its scenic setting. Built on a rocky peninsula at the end of Loch Awe, in Argyll, the castle boasts impressive views from the top.

Although they haven’t been restored, the medieval ruins are captivating, especially with verdant peaks and the loch as a backdrop. No wonder Kilchurn Castle is one of the most photographed locations in Scotland.

There are no restrictions for visits, but access is difficult due to the lack of proper roads.

Where:  Lochawe, Dalmally When:  15th Century Open for visit: Yes, check here for more information.

Click here to book a day trip from Edinburgh to the West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles that includes a visit to Kilchurn Castle, Inveraray Castle, and Doune Castle. Please note Inveraray Castle is open to the public from April – October.

15. Brodie Castle

A 16th-century architectural marvel, Brodie Castle is located near Forres, in Morayshire and is part of the National Trust for Scotland.

The former residence of the Brodie family, the castle houses important art collections and fine furniture in its exquisite interiors. In the springtime, the grounds of the castle are covered with daffodils, which have become a symbol of the place.

One of the most interesting attractions on the grounds is The Playful Garden.

Where:  Brodie When:  1567 Open for visit: Yes, for more information check here .

16. Dirleton Castle

Like other famous castles on the list, Dirleton Castle has always been an important part in the history of Scotland. Set on a rocky ridge near North Berwick in East Lothian , this 12th-century romantic castle is a charming construction surrounded by lovely gardens, including a Victorian garden and a herbaceous border.

An interesting fact is that the herbaceous border is the longest in the world, according to the Guinness Book of Records.

Where:  Dirleton, North Berwick When:  1240 Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

17. Castle Fraser

One of the most impressive-looking castles in Scotland, Castle Fraser is a five-story-high tower house located in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire.

The construction began in 1575 and ended in 1636, but historical evidence suggests an earlier tower structure existed there before.

The castle is set amid hundreds of acres of landscaped grounds and woodlands. From the tower, visitors get panoramic views of the surrounding nature.

The rooms are adorned with works of art and portraits of the Fraser family and were renovated in the first half of the 19th-century.

Where:  Sauchen When: 1575 Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

18. Caerlaverock Castle

Caerlaverock Castle is one of the most unique places not just in Scotland, but in the world as well. Set in a natural park, this gorgeous castle was built in the shape of a triangle, with imposing towers and sandstone walls that stand out in contrast with the verdant vegetation.

Located near Glencaple, this castle attracts huge crowds of visitors due to its fairytale-like design. Dating from the mid-13th-century, Caerlaverock Castle was repeatedly sieged and left in ruins, but the Maxwell family built a new residence inside the castle walls in the 17th-century.

The contrast between the medieval walls and the Renaissance touches of the interiors is surely able to captivate imaginations.

Where:  Caerlaverock When:  13th Century Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

19. Blackness Castle

Located near Linlithgow in West Lothian, Blackness Castle belongs to one of the most influential Scottish families, the Crichtons.

The castle was built in the 15th-century following a unique design, and its nautical shape has led to increasing popularity, especially after serving as a film location for Hamlet.

From the interiors, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Fife and the Firth of Forth. Besides being a royal castle, Blackness Castle was once a prison and a military fortress.

Where:  Blackness When:  15th Century Open for visit:  Yes, for more information check here .

Click here to book a day trip from Edinburgh that includes a visit to Linlithgow Palace, the 15th-century fortress of Blackness Castle, and the Royal Burgh of Culross.

20. Duart Castle

Duart Castle was built in the 13th-century on the Isle of Mull in a strategic position from where it controlled the navigation on the loch. For over 400 years, the castle was the seat of the Maclean family.

At the end of the 18th-century, it was left in ruin, but a descendant of the Maclean clan restored it to its former shape at the beginning of the 1900s. Besides the intriguing dungeons and the magnificent interiors, the castle is popular for its scenic surroundings.

Where:  Isle of Mull When:  13th Century Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

21. St. Andrew’s Castle

Sitting on a rocky promontory in a dramatic landscape at the North Sea in Fife, St. Andrew’s Castle is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, with a fascinating history behind its ruined walls.

Dating from the 13th-century, this was the castle of the Archbishops of St Andrews, a place of great importance for the Scottish church in medieval times. In the 16th-century, St Andrew’s Castle was famous for its dungeons which housed one of the roughest prisons in Britain.

Where:  St Andrews When:  1200 Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

22. Dunvegan Castle

Located on the stunning Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle has been sitting majestically on the shore of Loch Dunvegan since the 13th-century.

The home of the Chiefs of the MacLeod clan for the past 800 years, the castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the country.

The ancestral structure hosts impressive fine art collections and is surrounded by a charming garden. Guided tours and boat cruises are available on the grounds.

Where:  MacLeod Estate When:  13th Century Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

23. Culzean Castle

One of the popular tourist attractions in Scotland, Culzean Castle impresses visitors with its stunning clifftop setting and beautiful surroundings. The unique neo-classical Georgian architecture is also a beloved feature.

The castle is located near Maybole on the rugged Ayrshire coastline, and the estate is comprised of the Culzean Country Park with 600 acres of formal gardens and woodlands.  

Built-in the 18th-century, the castle does not have the rich history of other earlier Scottish castles, but it compensates for it with its opulence. Luxurious features were repeatedly added throughout the years.

Where:  Maybole When:  1777 – 1792 Open for visit:  Yes, for more information, check here .

Click here to book your Culzean Castle and Country Park Entrance Ticket

24. Craigievar Castle

Craigievar Castle sits near the Grampian Mountains in Aberdeenshire. Built in the Scottish Baronial style in the 17th-century, the castle served as the seat of the Sempill family for two centuries, but it was donated in 1963 to the National Trust of Scotland.

The interesting architecture featuring turrets and round towers leads visitors to see in Craigievar Castle a place taken out of storybooks.

Where:  Craigievar When: 1626 Open for visit:  Yes, for more information. Check here .

25. Thirlestane Castle

Built as the seat of Duke Lauderdale, Thirlestane Castle is a three-story structure with impressive towers, whose construction began in the 16th-century.

Significant changes were made in the 17th- and 19th-centuries, which transformed it into one of the most refined inhabited castles in the country. Set amid expansive gardens and woodlands, this charming castle has impressive interiors with plasterwork ceilings considered some of the most exquisite in Europe.

Located in Lauder, only half an hour south of Edinburgh, Thirlestane Castle is now the home of the Maitland family.

Where:  Lauder When:  17th Century Open for visit: Yes, for more information, check here .

26. Castle Stalker

Castles and lochs form an impressive sight together, which is why the Scottish castles located near a loch are considered the most picturesque. This is the case for Castle Stalker as well.

Built on a small island on Loch Laich in the 14th-century, Castle Stalker is a beautiful four-story tower house that served as the seat of Clan MacDougall for centuries.

The present structure dates, however, from around the middle of the 15th-century. Although private property, the castle is open to visits.

Where:  Appin When:  1320 Open for visit: Only by booking. Check here for more information.

27. Doune Castle

Built-in the 13th-century, Doune Castle suffered severe damage in a war. Restored at the beginning of the 15th-century, the castle later passed into the possession of the Crown.

For a while, the royal family used it as a hunting lodge, but it was ruined gradually by other wars. Other restorations followed, and now the castle is maintained by the state. Doune Castle is half an hour away by bus from Stirling.

Where:  Doune When: 1400 Open for visit:  Yes, Check here for more information .

28. Threave Castle

One of the top castles in Scotland, Threave Castle was built on an island in the middle of River Dee. Now under the administration of Historic Scotland, the castle was built at the end of the 14th-century by Lord of Galloway.

Threave castle has a strategic position which helped it maintain its integrity under various sieges. Visitors must take a short walk through grass fields and woodland to reach the shore of the River Dee. From here, the castle can only be reached by boat.

Where:  Dumfries When:  1370 Open for visit: Yes, for more information, click here .

29. Ballindalloch Castle

Ballindalloch Castle is a 16-century castle that belongs to the Macpherson-Grant family, who has lived there for centuries. Originally a fortified tower house, Ballindoalloch was later expanded and transformed into a luxurious country mansion. 

Although privately-owned, the castle is one of the most renowned places in Scotland and welcomes visitors in the summer months. Situated in Speyside, the castle is known as “The Pearl of the North” due to its air of grandeur and refinement.

Where:  Banffshire When:  1546 Open for visit: Yes, for more information, click here .

30. Urquhart Castle

Located beside the Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland, Urquhart Castle is one of the most famous Scottish castles, due to its association with the mysterious legends surrounding Loch Ness.

The ruins visitors see today are mostly from the 13th-century, with significant additions being made up until the 16th-century. The castle played an important in Scotland’s war of independence due to its strategic position beside the loch.

Now in ruins after being abandoned in the 17th-century, the castle is still an impressive sight, especially as it offers spectacular views of Loch Ness from its Grand Tower.

A large visitor centre has been set up on the grounds of the castle, which includes a shop and a restaurant, besides guided tours.

Where:  Drumnadrochit When:  1509 Open for visit: For more information, check here .

Click here to book a day trip from Edinburgh to Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands that includes a visit to Urquhart Castle.

With such a rich and eventful history, it is no wonder that Scotland has so many historically and architecturally important sights.

The numerous castles scattered across the rugged yet scenic Scottish landscape are a powerful glimpse into the unique character of the country.

When looking for fairytale locations or for places surrounded by legend, mystery, and historical legacy, there is no better place to visit than a Scottish castle.

FREE learning visits

Explore 5,000 years of history with our free learning visits.

• Where can we visit?
• Is our group eligible?
• How can we book?
• School visits travel subsidy
• Site information sheets

1 Where can we visit?

2 is our group eligible.

• nurseries and schools
• colleges and universities
• out of school clubs 
• uniformed organisations like Scouts or Girl Guides (UK only)
• home educator groups (UK only)

Groups from third sector and charitable organisations delivering educational or wellbeing programmes are also eligible, including those supporting:

• adult learners
• employability programmes
• groups with additional support needs.
• A member of the visiting learning organisation must make the booking. Formal educational groups must make the booking using their organisational email address.
• The free learning visits scheme does not cover commercial or leisure activity including residential language schools.

Staffing ratios

• Early Years - Nursery and P1/2 (or aged 7 and under) 1:6
• Primary P3-7 and Secondary S1-S4  (or aged 8-15) 1:10
• Senior Phase  (or aged 16-18 but still in school) 1:15

Groups with  participants aged 16+  (excluding school groups) must be accompanied by a named representative from the visiting organisation.  

Please get in touch with us at [email protected] if you'd like to check whether your group is eligible.

3 How can we book?

We are currently taking requests for visits up to the end of June 2024.

As we are currently receiving a high volume of booking enquiries please be aware that response times may be slower than normal. Thank you for your patience.

To book your free learning group visit:

• For booking requests for  Edinburgh Castle or Stirling Castle , please fill in our booking enquiry form.  
• For all other sites a provisional booking should be made by calling the site directly . 
• We’ll then email you a booking confirmation with a voucher to bring along on the day (please note a booking is not guaranteed until you receive a confirmation email and voucher)
• After your booking is confirmed, group leaders can arrange a free planning visit to help with preparation of a risk assessment. Please arrange this for Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle by emailing [email protected] and for all other sites please contact the site directly .

Please note:

• All our sites operate with daily visitor capacities. Early booking and some flexibility on date and time of the visit is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
• At least 10 days’ notice of the proposed visit date is required.
• Currently, we are only offering self-guided visits. We have a range of online resources available to support your visit.

Learning & Inclusion Team Historic Environment Scotland Email:  [email protected]

4 School visits travel subsidy

We are pleased to announce that the scheme for the 2024/25 financial year is now open. We can accept applications for visits taking place from 1 April 2024. The application form is available to download below.

Scottish schools can apply for help towards the travel costs of visiting heritage sites of national importance. The Scottish Government Heritage Travel Subsidy for Schools covers 75% of transport costs (up to a maximum of £300) to visit the chosen site. Scotland's special schools and units can apply for 100% of travel costs (up to a maximum of £300).

You can apply for a School Visits Travel Subsidy if visiting:

• Any Historic Environment Scotland site
• Certain  National Trust for Scotland sites – The Battle of Bannockburn , Culloden and  Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
• David Livingstone Birthplace
• New Lanark World Heritage Site
• Scottish Jewish Heritage Centre

Any Scottish school can apply. Funding is limited and priority will be given to schools in areas with high indicators of multiple deprivation (see Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation ).

The travel subsidy process:

• The visit must be booked in advance and for a genuine educational purpose.
• Subsidy applications must be made before the visit.
• Receipts must be sent by the school after the visit (and within one month of the visit date).
• Payment will be made to the school usually within 30 days of receipt of a valid claim.

How to apply

• Make a provisional booking by contacting the site you wish to visit.
• Obtain a quote for travel costs (e.g. from a coach company).
• Complete the travel subsidy application form and return it to us at [email protected]

How will I hear back about my application?

Historic Environment Scotland's Learning and Inclusion team will respond to you by email to let you know whether or not your application was successful.

How will I receive the subsidy?

After your visit, please send a copy of the paid bus company invoice or group travel receipt to [email protected] .

75% of the total cost of travel (up to a maximum of £300) will be reimbursed to the school usually within 30 days of receipt of the invoice/group travel receipt. For Scotland's special schools and units, 100% of travel costs (up to a maximum of £300) will be reimbursed.

Email:  [email protected]

5 Site information sheets

Our site information sheets are here to help learning group leaders plan their visit to our historic places. They include key things to know, as well as a list of potential hazards, to help a group leader write their risk assessment.

Blackness Castle [PDF, 697KB]

Craigmillar Castle [PDF, 629KB]

Dirleton Castle [PDF, 589KB]

Dumbarton Castle [PDF, 623KB]

Dunfermline Abbey and Palace [PDF, 799KB]

Edinburgh Castle [PDF, 1MB]

Fort George [PDF, 525KB]

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn [PDF, 1.2MB]

Melrose Abbey [PDF, 780KB]

Ring of Brodgar [PDF, 515KB]

Skara Brae [PDF, 562KB]

Stirling Castle [PDF, 532KB]

Stones of Stenness [PDF, 466KB]

Tantallon Castle [PDF, 610KB]

Urquhart Castle [PDF, 574KB]

Here are answers to some of our frequently asked questions (FAQs):

Is it safe to visit?

Can i book a tour or activity, can i book a lunch space, do you provide risk assessments, how should we dress.