Scotland’s 11 most beautiful castles

Travelling to Celtic lands? Don’t miss out on a visit to Scotland’s castles, a must-see historic monument!

Scotland is a country with an incredible imagination, rich Celtic legends and a growing reputation. When we think of Scotland, we immediately think of those famous castles that blend into the skyline. Symbols of Scottish power, castles captivate, stun and amaze visitors with their grandeur and beauty. As in fairy tales, Scotland’s castles have a mysterious, magical quality!

Here’s our selection of Scotland’s finest castles!

1. Dunnottar Castle

Situated on the north-east coast of Scotland, about 3 kilometers south of Stonehaven, this medieval fortress is built on a rocky outcrop. Dunnottar Castle, considered by many to be Scotland’s finest castle, is sadly in ruins, but still retains all its charm!

Fun fact: fans of the Outlander series will recognize some of the filming locations.

2. Eilean Donan Castle

Located in the Highlands, on the edge of a loch, this 13th-century Scottish castle is one of the country’s most emblematic. This sumptuous castle is not lacking in charm: it is linked to the mainland by a charming little stone bridge (ideal for a souvenir photo).

Inside, you’ll be captivated by the charm of this fortress. Indeed, exploring the halls and chambers, where period furniture, objects and weapons are on display, will take you back in time.

3. Edinburgh Castle

It would be a huge mistake to visit Edinburgh without seeing its castle! Indeed, it’s one of Scotland’s most famous castles, representing the seat of Scottish power, notably occupied by Mary Stuart of Scotland.

With over a million visitors a year, this imposing castle – located on Castle Hill – offers breathtaking views over the whole of Edinburgh.

4. Culzean Castle

Situated on the edge of a cliff on the Ayrshire coast, this castle was a gift from the USA to Scotland to thank them for their support during the Second World War.

Well-preserved and surrounded by gardens, this castle with its turrets and battlements, situated just above the sea, is one of Scotland’s jewels.

A little trivia: if you pay attention, you’ll notice that Culzean Castle appears on the back of the £5 bill issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland.

5. Ballindalloch Castle

Nicknamed the Pearl of the North, it lies in the heart of the Highland region. Unlike other castles in Scotland, it’s one of the few in the country to be privately owned! Owned by the Macpherson-Grant family, it’s only open in summer.

6. Fraser Castle

Castle Fraser is Scotland’s largest castle! It is a perfect illustration of the defensive constructions of this period (1560-1636).

Both the interior and exterior are well worth a visit! Visiting the interior takes you back in time to the different periods of Scottish history, thanks to the portraits in each room. As for the exterior, it’s simply stunning! Here are the 2 main walking routes through the castle’s gigantic grounds:

• Miss Bristow (2 km ): this is an immersive forest trail through the remains of the castle.
• Alton Brae (2.5 km ): this discovery trail leads to a pond.

7. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is emblematic of Scottish history, and of the struggle for independence from English royalty.

When you visit the château, you’ll never be bored! Here’s a list of must-sees:

• The large banquet hall
• The Royal Palace
• The Royal Chapel
• Large kitchens
• The Esplanade
• Queen Anne’s gardens
• The Palace vaults

Tip: the castle is easily accessible from Edinburgh or Glasgow.

8. Urquhart Castle

It’s one of the most visited castles in Scotland! Indeed, Urquhart Castle’s geographical location (overlooking Loch Ness) is associated with the legend of the Loch Ness monster.

Now in ruins, Urquhart Castle remains one of Scotland’s must-see castles, and a magnificent vantage point!

9. Glamis Castle

Glamis Castle is one of Scotland’s most imposing and historically interesting castles. The childhood home of the Queen Mother, it is also famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s play Macbeth.

10. Château d’Inveraray

Situated in the west of Scotland on the shores of Loch Fyne, this castle boasts a truly magnificent façade and interior! Many are tempted by its tearoom, which offers a glimpse into royal life.

Fun fact: Downton Abbey fans will recognize the set from episode 9 of season 3.

11. Château de Crathes

Deep in the woodlands ofAberdeenshire lies one of Scotland’s finest castles: Crathes Castle. Dating from the 16th century, it was given to the Burnett family by King Robert I of Scotland in 1323. Its beautiful garden, collection of portraits and ceiling paintings will amaze you during your visit.

Terrifying anecdote: one of the castle’s rooms is said to be haunted, which makes a visit particularly interesting (or not).