10 Great Scottish Castles

Set in the serene countryside of Aberdeenshire, Queen Victoria lovingly described Balmoral as her "dear paradise in the Highlands", and it still remains a private home of the Royal Family. When the Royals are not in residence, visitors can enjoy exhibitions in the Castle Ballroom, the largest room in the castle, and wander through the charming gardens and grounds.

Situated on one of the most iconic and world-renowned locations in Scotland, Urquhart Castle needs little introduction. Perched on the banks of Loch Ness, this ruined castle boasts a fascinating trip back in time, through remarkable collections of artefacts left by its residents, historic replicas, and a short film. With over 1,000 years of history to explore, you’ve got plenty to keep you busy. Climb the Grant Tower that keeps watch over the mysterious loch, witness the inside of an ancient prison cell, and picture what grand banquets and gatherings would have been like in the great hall.

Set atop a craggy extinct volcano in the hear of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Castle is unquestionably Scotland’s most famous castle. This sprawling complex houses the Crown Jewels and Mons Meg. Famous Scots throughout history have made their mark on the castle, from Mary Queen of Scots to Sir Walter Scott. Make sure to get there in time for the spectacular firing of the One O’ Clock Gun!

Dramatic doesn’t even begin to cover this formidable cliff-top stronghold. Perched on an immense rocky outcrop overlooking the north east coast, Dunnottar has witnessed many pivotal moments in Scotland’s history as a fortress of the Earls of Marischal. The sight of it silhouetted against the setting sun is truly spellbinding.

Meticulously restored to its original Renaissance glory, Stirling Castle was the favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens. Highlights include the Great Hall, Chapel Royal and Tapestry Studio, where you can delve into a world of decadence, plots and intrigue. It's also a great place to bring the family - the kids will love meeting costumed courtiers, bodyguards and servants!

Prepare for your jaw to drop when you lay eyes on this magnificent castle. Dunrobin Castle is located in the north Highlands of Scotland, near Golspie, and overlooks the stunning Dornoch Firth. Dunrobin resembles a French chateâu with towering conical spires and carefully pruned gardens, and has seen architectural influence from big names throughout the years, such as Sir Charles Barry. Visit the onsite museum to delve into the history and heritage of the castle and surrounding Highland area, as well as seeing up close the amazing collection of Pictish symbols and stones from centuries ago.

Eilean Donan has to be one of the most photographed castles in the world with a site history that dates back to 643 AD. It boasts a romantic setting on an island at the entrance of Loch Duich, surrounded by the forested mountains of Kintail and overlooking the Isle of Skye. Eilean Donan is steeped in Jacobite lore and history; amongst the rare artefacts on display is a sword said to have been wielded at Culloden. More recently, you might recognise it as a backdrop in films including Highlander, The World is Not Enough and Rob Roy.

Situated on the stunning Ayrshire coastline, Culzean Castle is a magnificent cliff top fortress. Surrounded by picturesque gardens, beaches, woods, trails and more, it’s a great day out for history buffs and families alike. Head indoors and marvel at the dramatic centrepiece of the castle – Robert Adam’s Oval Staircase -  before browsing the enormous collection of flintlock pistols and military swords.

The kids will love running wild in the adventure Cove and Wild Woodlands play areas too.

Nestled amongst the majesty of the Cairngorms National Park, the 17th century fortress of Braemar Castle ticks all the boxes; castellated turrets, winding spiral staircases and a bottle-necked dungeon. Explore the grounds and find out more about the history of Clan Farquharson.  

Head to the ancient capital of Scotland where you can visit the crowning place of Scottish kings, where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were once crowned. Scone Palace is located just outside the city of Perth and overlooks the flowing River Tay. This grand castle and gardens has been immaculately preserved for hundreds of years, and now offer tours and even a luxury 5 star place to stay if you want to feel like royalty. The gardens are stunning to wander through, with a Walled & Kitchen Garden to enjoy, too.

Inveraray Castle is one of Scotland's finest stately homes and the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, Chiefs of the Campbell Clan since the early 15th century. With an intricate façade and sumptuous interiors, the castle embodies the pinnacle of 18th century neoclassical elegance. Admire priceless Beauvais tapestries in the Drawing Room, as well as outstanding views of Loch Fyne.

The fictional home of the Thane of Cawdor in Shakespeare's Macbeth, Cawdor Castle ranks among Scotland’s most enchanting castles. Celebrated for its fairy-tale edifice, dramatic history and romantic gardens - parts of which are over 300 years old - a visit here is like stepping into bygone age. According to local legend, if you visit the castle dungeons you can still see a thorn or holly tree which the castle was built around dating back to 1372. 

The white-washed Blair Castle stands proudly against a backdrop of wooded hills rising above the River Garry. The ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl, it is also the home of Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders. Explore its opulent rooms, sprawling estate and peaceful surroundings in the heart of the Highlands.

The red sandstone walls of Glamis have been home to many colourful characters throughout the centuries, not least of them the late Queen Mother. Once the family home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, it also famously features in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Crowned with iconic battlements and pointed turrets, Glamis is the epitome of baronial grandeur and is only a short trip from Dundee.