Castles to visit in Scotland

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most historically important sites and was once a favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations at the castle.

Once seen, never forgotten... Visit Dunnottar Castle for your own unforgettable experience exploring the impregnable fortress that holds many rich secrets of Scotland’s colourful past.

Discover this ancient Iron-Age fort located at the southern end of the Isle of Bute.

Duff House is the premier outstation of the National Galleries of Scotland and houses a collection of fine paintings and furniture.

Enjoy stunning views of the Firth of Clyde from Newark Castle in Port Glasgow.

Bothwell Castle is the largest and finest 13th century stone castle in Scotland, much fought over during the Wars of Independence.

Balvenie Castle is a ruined castle near Dufftown in the north of Aberdeenshire.

Ravenscraig Castle is one of the earliest artillery forts in Scotland and has two round towers linked by a cross range.

Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Teeming with history and surrounded by mountains, Brodick is every inch the quintessential island castle. Explore the castle during our new self-guided visitor experience, which focuses on the fascinating stories of the people who lived here.

Built in 1371, Dundonald Castle is a splendid example of a medieval tower house, with a fine barrel-vaulted ceiling in the lower hall.

Explore this magnificent ruined castle, the former home of the first Protestant Bishop of the Isles.

One of the oldest and finest inhabited castles in Scotland

This medieval tower house was built around 1500 by Ninian Adair of Kilhurst, one of the most powerful Lairds of Wigtownshire.

Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Stately and striking, Haddo House combines elegant Georgian style with luxurious Victorian interiors. Step inside and listen to the stories of the Gordon family while admiring the exquisite furniture and paintings. Then head outside to discover the delightful terrace garden, with its lavish herbaceous border and geometric flower beds.

Discover the remains of the former stronghold of the MacLachlans, one of Scotland’s oldest clans.

Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Visit the grand 16th-century castle that was the ancestral home of the Brodie clan for over 400 years. Inside, discover its impressive art collections, decorative ceilings and fine furniture. Outside, enjoy the beautifully landscaped garden, nature trail and the incredible family attraction – The Playful Garden.

Dean Castle Country Park is a fantastic free day out for the whole family. The country park, covering over 200 acres, is nestled in the heart of Kilmarnock and offers something for everyone to enjoy. With a recently restored 14th century castle, rural life centre, woodland walks, adventure playground,cafe and gift shops, the jewel in Kilmarnock's crown is well worth a visit!

A town centre Heritage Trail with a series of information boards at key historical sites, linking a fully accessible pedestrian trail around Dingwall using existing roads and footpaths. Walking the Trail takes about 30-45 minutes.

Welcome to Castle Menzies: visitor attraction, museum, clan centre and venue for weddings, concerts, corporate events and other hire. Full details are available on our website at www.castlemenzies.org

Travel back in time and immerse yourself in the History of Clan MacDougall. Explore our enchanting woodland grounds,visit our 1745 Museum House with its social history collection and temporary local photography exhibition 'Hope Behind the Lens'. Walk up to the Castle Ruins and be stunned by the view stretching far and wide across Oban bay and the Isles.

Arniston House is a magnificent William Adam, Palladian style mansion house set in acres of beautiful parkland just 11 miles from Edinburgh. It has been home to the Dundas family for over 400 years. You are most welcome to come and visit us, have a tour, see the beautiful grounds and perhaps consult with our Events Coordinator about a wedding or other event. We invite you to come and visit us.