A Comprehensive Guide To The Top 12 Amazing Castles To Visit In Scotland

Scotland is the land of a very rich and colourful history, with the castles (all of them) being the texture of this tapestry – each of them is telling its unique history within its walls. For antiquities admirers with the same obsessions as you, This place is your heaven. The fact that a castle tour has stories behind each corner that relate to the history of the country is not the only thing, you are also going to be part of the culture since you will visit its inspiring nature and historical buildings.

Coming up with an agenda that is consistent with your interests and the numerous choices might seem overwhelming at first. In addition to this, we’ve made it possible to help you select from among the most beautiful castles in Scotland. They are from mineral sea fortresses to Gothic palaces. This duplicate architecture will give ultimate travel throughout the country’s past.

List Of Top 12 Amazing Castles To Visit In Scotland

Edinburgh Castle

In Edinburgh Castle heights the visitor is amazed by one of the most outstanding viewpoints of the capital city of Scotland, that itself is described as the best tourist attraction in the country. 

Although it experienced renovations throughout many ages, the castle was first founded by a ruler at the beginning of the twelfth century, staying performing this role since then. The Iron Ages were a period when the castle was most active, and ancient discoveries date back to them.

This very day, Edinburgh Castle is the biggest symbol of Scotland’s national pride, for almost every visitor is drawn by the atmosphere of centuries-old mysteries and shivers. The castle takes us through its chronology and gives us information about the significance of the castle in Scottish history, on account of which it has earned itself the reputation of one of the forts in the United Kingdom, to receive the most fighting.

The chronicles of Scottish history from the beginning of the 14th-century ‘Wars of Independence’ and the Jacobite Rising of 1745 embodied in this castle are unforgettable events that leave a lasting memory. Venturing inside the edifice shrouds as an incredible volume of items all interweaving the history of this nation. They include the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the shooting every day around 1 P.M of the 15th-century gun from the castle wall.

Firstly, of great importance is St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh and allowing the chance to connect to the city’s past in a meaningful way. Exploring Scotland is possible via a visit to Edinburgh Castle and in the process one engages in an intriguing journey into the culture and history of Scotland.

Stirling Castle

Ideal for: Get to the depth of Scotland’s past heritage and at the same time involve the family.

So imposing and significant it has stood there throughout the mighty centuries – from the 12th-century, on Castle Hill at the heart of Stirling, it is one of the most recognizable features of the region.

Meaning the “brooch of Scotland”, Stirling was known for its strategic location and that saying: “He who holds Stirling holds Scotland” was used many times. This situation allowed it to be the scene of some of the most legendary battles, such as, the sieges of Stirling Castle.

Its garrison of soldiers serves but doubles as the future of this grand structure becomes entwined greatly with the Stewart kings and queens who later transform the castle into their mighty palace. It has seen many things, as it held the necessary occasions of baptisms, marriages and coronations.

Doune Castle

Perfect for: The main feature of a virtual reality for cinema attractions is the ability to envelop oneself in a (full-function 3D graphics) setting.

Just a short trip from Stirling, Doune Castle, an impeccable 14th-century architectural gem with a vivid record of its historical significance in various movies and TV shows, never fails to thrill me.

Over time, the castle saw it all, from the mysterious and powerful queens of Scotland to the charismatic Bonnie Prince Charlie who tried to regain the throne for Stuarts. Recently, it has been receiving attention for its roles in Outlander (Filming at Castle Leoch), and Game of Thrones, the Castle Black, and in cinema famous for Outlaw King.

Dunrobin Castle

Ideal for: Walking from the past to presence probably is the experience that will take you to the goal.

Another well-known castle is the great Dunrobin with its fairylike spires, and baronial style castles, which allow visitors to step into fairy tales. Located in the highland of the North, it is the largest castle in that region accordingly, providing people with a rare opportunity to view Scotland’s Historical heritage.

As you wander through the castle grounds hand-in-hand with your companion, you will uncover the captivating history of Dunrobin. Gain insights into the past and the notable figures who shaped the castle’s narrative, including the Duke of Sutherland, renowned for his role in the Highland Clearances. 

The castle’s significance extends to its utilization as a naval hospital during WWI and as a boarding school in the 1960s and 1970s.

Dunvegan Castle

Perfect for: Connecting with Scottish heritage at the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod

Dunvegan Castle, standing proudly as the oldest continuously inhabited Scottish castle, has been the home of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Immerse yourself in the rich history of one of Scotland’s oldest clans and leave with a deepened sense of Scottish pride.

Perched atop a hill, Dunvegan offers breathtaking views of Loch Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye. Spend a leisurely day exploring the 18th-century gardens spread across 5 acres. Inside, discover the intricacies of the mythical Fairy Flag, a relic believed to bring victories to the MacLeod clan, according to local legend.

Dunnottar Castle

Optimal for: A captivating day of coastal sightseeing with historical resonance

Explore one of Scotland’s most picturesque medieval castles by visiting Dunnottar. Positioned atop a rocky headland, the castle appears nearly impregnable, serving as the safeguard for the crown jewels against English intrusion during the 17th century.

Beyond its strategic defense role, Dunnottar played a pivotal part in Scottish military history, hosting notable figures such as William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, and the Marquis of Montrose. With structures dating back to the 14th and 16th centuries, the castle and its surroundings hold echoes of Scotland’s ancient Pictish inhabitants.

Ardvreck Castle

Perfect for: Seeking an eerie encounter and delving into ghostly legends

Ardvreck Castle, a haunting 15th-century ruin, beckons those intrigued by supernatural tales. Ghostly apparitions, including a tall man dressed in grey and a mysterious little girl, are rumored to roam the halls, both meeting their demise while associated with the MacLeod Clan.

As you explore Ardvreck Castle’s grounds, encounter additional myths, such as the legend of a mermaid residing in the castle’s loch, whose tears allegedly influence the water level. Regardless of one’s belief in the supernatural, the castle’s breathtaking location by Loch Assynt makes it a compelling destination.

Blair Castle

Discover the rich history of Scottish Highland feuds by immersing yourself in the captivating ambiance of Blair Castle. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic residence has been home to more than 19 generations of Clan Murray, positioning itself strategically in Glen Garry. The castle’s epic views not only provided control over the surrounding area but also served as the ideal base for one of the Scottish Highlands’ feuding dynasties.

Blair Castle showcases a harmonious blend of architectural styles, incorporating elements of Medieval, Georgian, and Victorian design. Visitors can delve into its fascinating past through guided tours, available to the public from April to October, or explore the meticulously maintained grounds, recognized as one of Scotland’s most significant gardens.

Eilean Donan Castle

Let the visual journey take you to Eilean Donan Castle, a charming castle located on the road to the Isle of Skye, and must be on the way. This famous castle, which can be found on a small islet between Loch Duich and Alsh, provides an impressive landscape vista in pictures for social media shared on Instagram.

The castle, which had endured five centuries of struggle, faced destruction in 1719 mainly because of its connection to the Jacobite war. This is no longer, guests have a chance to be led in tours, and learn a little about its exciting history and imagine life during difficult times. Set out to visit the historical attraction that is usually open to the public during the peak summer season in Scotland.

Urquhart Castle

Situated on a promontory overlooking the Loch, the Urquhart Castle offers a perfect view of Loch Ness where the mysterious Loch Ness Monster, often called Nessie, is believed to be lurking. Furthermore, there is the fabled hunt for the infamous jackalope and the rest of you can explore the haunting with the ruins or you can even go into the spooky and the condemned prisons.

Urquhart Castle is packed with medieval artifacts on display, with visitors gaining insight into what living in the past was like, and the beautiful Highland views. With a historical background or monster interest, Urquhart Castle has to offer you a mystical experience in the middle of the Scottish Highlands.

Cawdor Castle

It is the well-known beauty spot and historical background that the Cawdor Castle is associated with that makes it the proper setting for the rehearsals of scenes from Shakespearean plays, especially Macbeth. In the absence of historical records, the construction of the castle dates back to an era after that of the actual King Macbeth, but it still represents the mythological character of the legend.

In Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the prophecy that Macbeth would first be made “the Thane of Cawdor” then be the King further reinforced Cawdor Castle as the fictional residence of Macbeth.

That said, it’s also worth mentioning that Cawdor Castle is steeped in history as well, having been one of the residences of Clan Campbell from the 16th century and thus bringing significant cultural relevance to the table.

Inveraray Castle

Nestled along the shores of Loch Fyne, Inveraray Castle stands as an impeccable choice for those seeking to indulge in the aristocratic ambiance reminiscent of Downton Abbey. Immerse yourself in the charm of the castle’s gardens, evoking the elegance of a bygone era, ideal for a romantic picnic against the backdrop of Scotland’s rugged Highland scenery.

Inside Inveraray Castle, visitors can explore notable attractions such as the Armoury Hall, showcasing an impressive collection of 1,300 pieces of weaponry. Additionally, the State Dining Room and Tapestry Drawing Room feature exquisite French tapestries, providing a glimpse into the opulence of the past.

Not only does Inveraray Castle offer a captivating experience for those yearning for a taste of aristocratic life, but it also serves as the enduring residence of the Duke of Argyll, the esteemed chief of Clan Campbell, since the 16th century, adding a layer of historical depth to the visitor’s journey.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, exploring these castles not only unveils the layers of Scotland’s past but also provides a multifaceted journey into its culture, history, and natural beauty. The castles serve as living monuments, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the enchanting tales that have shaped the nation.