Visit the Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland

Scotland Travel guide

Visit the Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland

A trip to Scotland is an invitation to contemplation and a return to our roots. Full of life and so peaceful at the same time, Scotland can be visited over the centuries, from castle to castle, witness to the country’s sometimes painful history.
Scotland can be discovered with the senses and understood through its colourful history. Follow the route of Scotland’s most beautiful castles, and they will be your best guides as they tell you all about the history of their country.

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Discover and visit the most beautiful castles in Scotland

Edinburgh Castle

When discussing the most beautiful castles in Scotland, Edinburgh Castle is a must-mention. Situated at the heart of the city, this iconic landmark stands proudly on Castle Hill, a rocky outcrop offering breathtaking views. Located at the start of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is easily accessible via a single road. Inside, explore the vast grounds and take the opportunity to chat with local guides who can share fascinating stories about the castle’s history. Don’t miss St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving structure within the castle, and a significant historical gem in Edinburgh itself.

For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit around 1pm to witness the firing of the cannon by the General of Artillery, a tradition that dates back to 1861. Guides will tell you that the cannon’s blast was once used to signal the time for farmers and ships, making it a unique and historic moment during your tour.

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Eilean Donan, Scotland’s most romantic castle

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, Eilean Donan Castle should be at the top of your list of must-see landmarks! Known as one of the most photographed sites in Scotland, this stunning castle has also served as a picturesque backdrop in numerous films.

To truly experience its breathtaking beauty, however, nothing compares to seeing it in person. Located in the northern part of the country, at the entrance to Loch Duich and just a few miles from Dornie, this iconic castle is perched on a scenic peninsula and connected by a charming stone bridge.

Often regarded as one of Scotland’s most romantic castles, Eilean Donan is a must-visit. A helpful tip: check the opening schedule before you go, as the castle is a popular wedding venue!

Braemar Castle

Make sure to visit Braemar Castle in Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s most stunning historic landmarks! This medieval castle is nestled in a picturesque meadow, where sheep roam freely, offering a true Scottish experience.

To fully immerse yourself in the castle’s rich history, take advantage of the guided tours available during July and August. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the castle’s many rooms, each thoughtfully furnished in early 20th-century style, and share captivating stories about its past and former residents.

For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, audio guides are available, included with your ticket, ensuring a personalized experience as you delve into the castle’s fascinating history.

Stirling Castle

Located just outside the town of Stirling, a visit to Stirling Castle is an essential part of any trip to Scotland. As one of the country’s largest and most historically significant castles, it sits proudly atop Castle Hill, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, making it an unmissable landmark.
History and art enthusiasts will find Stirling Castle particularly captivating. Explore the royal tapestries, the impressive Great Hall, the Chapel Royal, and the intriguing museum. To wrap up your visit, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Queen Anne Gardens, offering a perfect end to your castle tour.

Urquhart Castle

Make your way to the shores of the legendary Loch Ness and discover the historic Urquhart Castle, located just 2.5 kilometers from Drumnadrochit.

As you explore this remarkable 13th-century Scottish castle, you’ll walk through its ruins and get a glimpse of what life may have been like in the Middle Ages. The journey begins in the basement, where you can view a fascinating collection of period artefacts.

Wander through the castle’s courtyards and rooms, learning about Scotland’s rich history, particularly during the 14th-century War of Independence when the castle was rebuilt several times. For one of the most stunning views of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle provides a spectacular vantage point, offering sweeping panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

Sleep in a haunted castle in Scotland

Experience something truly unique during your stay in Scotland by visiting the country’s haunted castles with family or friends for an unforgettable night. Explore exceptional sites and eerie ruins while immersing yourself in the captivating stories, myths, and legends surrounding these historic Scottish landmarks.

With ghostly tales and paranormal phenomena at every turn, a tour of Scotland’s haunted castles promises to deliver thrilling and memorable experiences that will add an exciting dimension to your trip.

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Balmoral Castle

If you’re interested in visiting the King’s summer residence, head to Balmoral Castle, located just 13 kilometers from the charming village of Ballater. Standing at the foot of this grand Scottish castle, you’ll immediately feel the power and scale of the royal residence, where the King is welcomed in true regal fashion.

During your visit, explore the stunning rooms that transport you back to 1855, when the castle was originally built for Queen Victoria. With its grand Scottish lordly style and impressive 19th-century square tower, the architecture is truly magnificent. Enhance your tour with an audio guide, which provides fascinating insights that are perfect for visitors of all ages! Don’t miss the castle’s elegant ballroom and the period treasures, including stunning paintings by Landseer.

After the tour, enjoy a leisurely walk through the expansive, beautifully landscaped gardens, and experience the tranquil surroundings just as the Queen would on a peaceful afternoon.

Castles of Perthshire

Perthshire, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” is home to a stunning collection of castles that offer a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

Glamis Castle

Glamis Castle is an impressive L-shaped feudal fortress centered on a 14th-century tower, with a turreted keep and family chapel, and it has largely preserved its original structure apart from a lost 11th-century hunting lodge. Historically significant, it was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth II and is closely connected to Scottish heritage and folklore. The castle is also renowned as one of Scotland’s most haunted sites, famed for legends such as the Grey Lady ghost in the chapel and tales of a mysterious monster said to have once wandered its hidden rooms.

Blair Castle

Blair Castle, the historic seat of the Dukes of Atholl since the 13th century and former capital of the ancient kingdom of Atholl, has survived numerous Jacobite wars and remains a magnificent landmark. Located just north of Pitlochry at the edge of the National Park, it is set amid the River Garry and lush scenery, and today offers visitors rich collections of weapons, tapestries, porcelain, and period costumes, creating a timeless journey into the past.

Scone Palace

Scone Palace, a striking Georgian residence dating from 1812 built on a 12th-century site, is renowned as a ceremonial castle housing an impressive collection of paintings and antique furniture. Its gardens feature a butterfly garden, labyrinth, towering redwoods, and peacocks named after British monarchs, while nearby Moot Hill marks the historic coronation site of Scottish kings. Rich in national significance, Scone Palace is famously where Kenneth MacAlpin became Scotland’s first king and reclaimed the Stone of Destiny.