scotland`s castles

Boasting more than its fair share of castles, thanks to a
turbulent past, Scotland today can offer rich historical
pickings to its many visitors. Dotted around the
country are formidable strongholds set atop dramatic
cliffs, tower houses in varying states of ruin, ancient
artillery fortifications, moated bastions, and well
preserved medieval castles. Yes… Scotland’s castles
were undoubtedly well worth a tussle or two in days
gone by. Today the castles in Scotland are well worth a
somewhat more welcomed visit.
Just choose any region in Scotland and within a few
miles you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll come
across the remains of a stronghold still clinging to the
cliff edge, a medieval castle ruin perched atop a hill, a
tower house not quite as towering as it was in its glory
days, a well-preserved fortress sitting on a loch-side,
or a magnificent castle fully intact and open to visitors
year-round.
SCOTLAND’S CASTLES
FROM RUINS TO RICHES
SCOTLAND’S COUNTLESS CASTLES
From romantic ruins and iconic towers to
formidable bastions and magnificent functioning
castles… taking count of Scotland’s historic castles
will challenge even the best of statisticians
Written by Linda Jackson
Here are some excellent reasons to explore Scotland’s
captivating past…
GAME
EDINBURGH
CASTLE
It goes without saying that
Edinburgh Castle is a ‘must
visit’ attraction in Scotland.
It was built on the top of an extinct volcano, the
than 400 years of Scottish military history, to
site of a royal castle since the 12th century at
noteworthy rooms and buildings (The Crown
least. This historic monument towers above
Room, The Great Hall, the Royal Palace); awe-
Edinburgh city and is open to visitors year-round.
inspiring panoramic views across the capital;
and the spectacle of the Edinburgh Royal
From free guided tours of the castle; historical
stories related by costumed performers; a
museum housing photographs, personal
Military Tattoo held every August, there is
plenty to keep visitors captivated for several
hours.
mementoes and military objects covering more
Nearest properties, Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa, 21212 Restaurant with Rooms,
The Royal Scotsman Train and the Glasshouse.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
Copyright: Mike Pennington
GAME
BLACKNESS
CASTLE
Located to the northeast of
Edinburgh on the shores of
the Firth of Forth and less
than four miles from
Linlithgow, is formidablelooking Blackness Castle.
A 15th century stronghold built for one reason…
From the seaward side the daunting castle
war. From the towers and curtain wall of this
looks like a stone ship that has grounded, but
garrison fortress and prison there are wonderful
the massively strengthened fortification
views stretching across the sea to Fife and of the
withstood many sieges - except that of Oliver
road and rail bridges.
Cromwell in 1650, that is, the battle scars from
which still remain.
Nearest property, The Gleneagles Hotel.
GAME
CRAIGMILLAR
CASTLE
Boasting a story linked to
Mary Queen of Scots...
...The well-preserved medieval Craigmillar Castle
and features an impressive Great Hall and the
(four miles southeast from Edinburgh Castle)
‘Queen Mary’s Room’ where Mary allegedly
offers great views over Edinburgh and Holyrood
slept while staying as a guest at the castle. The
Park and lots of dark mysterious nooks and
surrounding gardens are also one of the
crannies to explore, including a grim basement
highlights.
prison. The 55ft tower house is one of the oldest
in Scotland dating back to the late-14th century
Nearest properties, Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa, 21212 Restaurant
with Rooms, The Royal Scotsman Train and the Glasshouse.
GAME
Eight miles south of Dumfries,
standing on the borders of the
country for 400 years...
CAERLAVEROCK
CASTLE
...This quintessential medieval stronghold
a moat, a twin-towered gatehouse, and a
suffered a turbulent history (undoubtedly
noteworthy 17th century residence in the
because of its nearness to England), playing an
courtyard; imposing red sandstone
important part in the defence of its territory.
battlements; a siege warfare exhibition; a
Caerlaverock Castle, built in a unique triangular
nature trail, and children’s adventure park.
shape, still lures visitors from across the border
(and across the world) to its impressive offerings:
Nearest property, Knockinaam Lodge.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
GAME
CARDONESS
CASTLE
From the battlements of this
well-preserved six-storey
tower house are splendid
views over Fleet Bay to the
Solway Firth.
From the battlements of this well-preserved six-
royalty) and long-standing bitter feud with
storey tower house are splendid views over Fleet
their neighbours. The walls are 8ft thick and
Bay to the Solway Firth. Cardoness Castle dates
window openings are small, the ground floor
back to the late-15th century and was primarily
walls are pierced by gunholes the size of a
built as a family residence by a prominent
keyhole, a form of defence in the late-1440s.
Galloway family notorious for their lawlessness
The tower house is sited 31 miles from
(despite being on rubbing-shoulder terms with
Dumfries and 14 miles from Castle Douglas
and open weekends only from 1 October to 31
Nearest property, Turnberry.
March (open daily from April-September).
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
GAME
Dating back to around 1530
and located in a fine setting in
the rolling hills of Clydesdale
approximately 24 miles
southeast of Glasgow...
Craignethan Castle is open weekends only from 1 October to 31 March (but
open every day from April-September).
This important and unusual early artillery fortification features a rare stone
vaulted artillery chamber, a caponier of which there is only one other in
Scotland (at Blackness Castle), and an exceptional tower house where King
James V and his court were known to have been entertained.
There is also a nature trail in the nearby deep glen.
CRAIGNETHAN
CASTLE
Nearest property, Turnberry.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
CULZEAN
GAME
CASTLE &
COUNTRY PARK
Hurry if you want to visit this
beautiful castle as the
summer season runs from the
beginning of April to the end
of October.
Not much time we know but as it is one of
a mix of sea, lush forest and beautiful
Scotland’s most loved castles how could we
manicured gardens, the castle boasts a
possibly exclude it from this article? Visitors
spectacular oval staircase, impressive armoury,
should plan to spend a full day exploring Culzean
round drawing room, turrets and battlements,
Castle & Country Park, located 12 miles from Ayr,
and wonderful views over the Firth of Clyde.
16 miles from Prestwick Airport, and 50 miles
History records were started in 1569 but the
from Glasgow International Airport. Encircled by
first written reference to a tower house at
Culzean dates back to the 1400s.
Nearest property, Turnberry.
GAME
DUMBARTON
CASTLE
Around 14 miles northeast of
Glasgow and overlooking the
Firth of Clyde, Dumbarton
Castle sits on a volcanic rock
soaking up stunning views for
miles around...
...Even the peak of Ben Lomond can be spotted
when the Norwegian frontier was only ten
on a clear day. Superb examples of 18th-century
miles away. The Battle of Largs (1263)
Georgian military architecture are present in the
successfully removed any threat from Norway,
artillery fortifications, and there are interesting
but then England became a bigger peril. The
artefacts on display in the Governor’s House, a
most recent military action was seen during
fine Georgian residence. First build in the early-
the Second World War.
13th century, Dumbarton was a border stronghold
Nearest properties, Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens and
Cameron House on Loch Lomond.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
ABERDOUR
GAME
CASTLE
& GARDEN
This medieval castle was
successfully extended and
modified over the centuries
(15th, 16th and 17th): three
noble families lived in it over a
500-year span.
It is thought that Aberdour Castle could possibly
Highlights of the castle complex are the 12th-
be the oldest standing masonry castle in Scotland
century Hall House, a precious 17th-century
because of some features which are
painted ceiling, and the 16th/17th century
extraordinarily similar to others found in a nearby
walled and terraced gardens with a beehive-
12th-century church, and offshore Abbey dated
shaped dovecot.
around 1200.
Nearest property, Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
ST ANDREWS
GAME
CASTLE
Hugging the shoreline
and sitting on a headland
in the north of St
Andrews, you’ll discover...
...The impressive ruins of St Andrews Castle which feature unique
underground passages – an insight into the horrifying nature of feudal siege
combat.
Admire the castle’s impressive frontage; explore the siege mine, counter-mine,
and the Bottle Dungeon.
St Andrews Castle was once the main residence of the bishops and
archbishops of St Andrews.
Nearest property, Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
GAME
BRODIE
CASTLE
This National Trust castle (24
miles east of Inverness) closes
on 31 October for the winter
but, like Culzean, must be
mentioned because of its
popularity.
However, the estate is open year-round where, in
Dating from the 16th century, Brodie Castle’s
spring, the grounds are spectacularly carpeted
main highlights are its unusual plaster ceilings;
with daffodils.
its major art collection, antiques, and
magnificent library.
Throughout the year visitors can enjoy the
woodland walk and a nature trail which has a
number of wildlife observation hides.
Nearest property, Boath House.
The fine architecture and
the location will not fail
to impress you at Huntly
Castle, baronial residence
for five centuries...
...Located on the outskirts of the picturesque market town of Huntly
(Aberdeen 40 miles, Inverness 66 miles).
This impressive medieval building, a noble ruin today, sheltered Robert the
Bruce in the 14th century in the site’s earliest stronghold.
There are two impressive heraldic fireplaces and a noteworthy heraldic
‘frontispiece’ above the main door.
HUNTLY
CASTLE
Nearest property, Marcliffe Hotel and Spa.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
GAME
TOLQUHON
CASTLE
A picturesque castle 17 miles
from Aberdeen and a noble
abode for around 300 years,
Tolquhon Castle features...
...An impressive ornate gatehouse; a secret
Aberdeenshire is blessed with a fine collection
compartment below the bedroom floor where
of castles; this is one of the most picturesque
valuables were once hidden; and interesting
and open throughout the year but only at
below-stairs rooms and upstairs family rooms to
weekends from October to March inclusive.
explore.
Nearest property, Marcliffe Hotel and Spa.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
Fantastic gargoyles, fairy-tale
turrets, superb 16th-century
painted ceilings, famous gardens
delightful year-round, and the
ancient Horn of Leys (given in
1323 by Robert the Bruce) are...
...Just a few of the impressive attractions at enchanting Crathes Castle, Garden
& Estate located 15 miles west of Aberdeen.
The gardens and estate make an enjoyable day out for the whole family; the
gardens are famous for their great yew hedges and double herbaceous border.
There are six woodland trails to follow in the estate grounds, plus exciting
treetop adventures for the children with “Go Ape!” at Crathes.
CRATHES
CASTLE
Nearest property, Marcliffe Hotel and Spa.
GAME
URQUHART
CASTLE
Sitting on the banks of Loch
Ness Urquhart Castle still gives
the impression of being an
imposing stronghold despite
being in ruins...
...And the tower house commands stunning views
castles and played a prominent part in the
of Loch Ness and Great Glen.
Scots’ struggle for independence witnessing
many a battle with the ruthless MacDonald
A medieval fortress for 500 years (13th-17th
centuries) with a predominantly bloody history,
Urquhart Castle was one of Scotland’s largest
clan as well as the English. The Visitor Centre
features an audio-visual display with an
excellent collection of medieval artefacts.
Nearest property, Rocpool Reserve and Chez Roux.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
GAME
CASTLE
FRASER
GARDEN & ESTATE
Reminiscent of a French
chateau, elaborate, and the
largest Z-plan-designed
Scottish castle, Castle Frazer
dates back to the 16th
century.
Highlights of the castle are fine 18th and 19th
that closes at the end of October – but the
century carpets, curtains and bed hangings; the
estate is open year-round where there is a
historic walled garden, and a number of quirky
forest walk and an enchanting play area for
features – hidden trapdoors, secret stairs and a
children in the woodland.
spy hole. Hurry to visit the castle: it’s another
(16 miles west of Aberdeen).
Nearest property, Marcliffe Hotel and Spa.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
Dating back to the 16th century
Edzell Castle is a gem with...
...its red sandstone walls; beautiful walled garden (added in 1604) with its
heraldic sculptures and carved panels, and a delightful little summer house.
Other highlights are the Lindsay family’s vault in the ancient graveyard, and
the tower house – a fine example of a nobleman’s abode.
EDZELL
CASTLE
Nearest property, Marcliffe Hotel and Spa.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
CASTLE
CAMPBELL
AND GARDEN
The setting of this castle above
Dollar Glen, 14 miles from
Stirling, must surely make it the
most dramatically located castle
in Scotland.
Featuring one of the best preserved tower houses in Scotland, dating back to
the 15th century, Castle Campbell was the lowland stronghold of the
influential Campbell earls of Argyll.
Highlights include the loggia in the east range, John Knox’s Pulpit in the
garden, and the Scottish history videos created by local historians.
Nearest property, The Gleneagles Hotel.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
STIRLING
GAME
CASTLE
In the heart of Stirling
towering over important
battlefields of the past, with a
commanding view of the
countryside for miles around...
...Imposing Stirling Castle with its impressive
Kitchens where lavish banquets were created.
architecture is one of Scotland’s grandest castles.
Other highlights include James V’s palace
Within the castle is the largest medieval
(lavish Renaissance façades); the Argyll &
banqueting hall ever constructed in Scotland
Sutherland Highlanders museum; and
(James IV’s Great Hall), supported by Great
magnificent views from the battlements.
Nearest property, The Gleneagles Hotel
We must not, of course, forget
today’s working castles… those
rather grand Scottish castles, perfect
for overnight accommodation as well
as group or corporate hire, such as
Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fasque Castle
and Crossbasket Castle
To see is to believe. So visit Scotland to explore its
historical sights and you will soon see why the country
can rightly boast of its myriad castles. Whether simply
castle ruins or castles blessed with rich offerings, they
are well worth a visit and well steeped in history.
SCOTLAND’S CASTLES
LINKS TO HISTORICAL PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND
National Trust for Scotland
www.nts.org.uk/Visits/
Historic Scotland
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places.htm
An EXPRESSMEDIA production for LUXURY SCOTLAND