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Discovering the United Kingdom – One trip at a time…

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Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Scotland’s Historic Castles

 

Scotland’s landscape is adorned with the majestic remnants of its storied past – historic castles that stand as witnesses to centuries of intrigue, battles, and royal legacies. Embark on a journey through time with this ultimate guide to exploring Scotland’s historic castles. Discover the tales they hold, the architectural wonders they showcase, and the enchanting landscapes that surround them.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Location: Edinburgh

Cost: £18.50 (Adults) | £11.50 (Children)

Highlights:

– Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace

– The Stone of Destiny in the Crown Room

– Panoramic views of Edinburgh from the Castle Esplanade

Getting There:

Edinburgh Castle is perched on Castle Rock in the heart of Edinburgh. It’s easily accessible by foot from the city centre.

2. Stirling Castle

Location: Stirling

Cost: £16.50 (Adults) | £9.90 (Children)

Highlights:

– The Great Hall’s Renaissance architecture

– The Royal Palace’s intricate tapestries

– The Queen Anne Gardens with stunning views of the surrounding landscape

Getting There:

Stirling Castle is in the city of Stirling, reachable by train or car. It’s a 10-minute walk from Stirling train station.

3. Eilean Donan Castle

Location: Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh

Cost: £10 (Adults) | £6 (Children)

Highlights:

– Iconic location on a small tidal island

– Picturesque views of the Scottish Highlands

– Rich history and medieval ambiance

Getting There:

Eilean Donan Castle is in the western Highlands. Drive or take a bus from Inverness, approximately 1.5 hours away.

4. Urquhart Castle

Location: Drumnadrochit, Inverness

Cost: £9 (Adults) | £5.40 (Children)

Highlights:

– Overlooking Loch Ness

– Towering Grant Tower with panoramic views

– Loch Ness Exhibition on the castle’s history

Getting There:

Urquhart Castle is on the shores of Loch Ness. Drive or take a bus from Inverness, about a 30-minute journey.

5. Dunnottar Castle

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire

Cost: £9 (Adults) | £4.50 (Children)

Highlights:

– Clifftop setting with dramatic views

– The Chapel, dating back to the 16th century

– Historic connection to William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots

Getting There:

Dunnottar Castle is a short drive from Aberdeen. Alternatively, take a train to Stonehaven and walk to the castle.

6. Craigmillar Castle

Location: Edinburgh

Cost: £6 (Adults) | £3.60 (Children)

Highlights:

– Well-preserved medieval castle

– The Tower House with panoramic views

– Mary Queen of Scots’ chambers

Getting There:

Craigmillar Castle is in the southern part of Edinburgh. Accessible by bus or car.

7. Blair Castle

Location: Blair Atholl, Perthshire

Cost: £15 (Adults) | £8 (Children)

Highlights:

– Extensive grounds and gardens

– The Hercules Garden with a stunning walled enclosure

– The Castle’s interiors showcasing period rooms

Getting There:

Blair Castle is in the Cairngorms National Park. Drive or take a train to Pitlochry, then a short bus or taxi ride.

8. Culzean Castle

Location: Maybole, Ayrshire

Cost: £19.50 (Adults) | £11.50 (Children)

Highlights:

– Striking clifftop location overlooking the Firth of Clyde

– Beautiful gardens and grounds

– The Oval Staircase, an architectural masterpiece

Getting There:

Culzean Castle is on the Ayrshire coast. Drive or take a train to Ayr, then a bus or taxi.

9. Inveraray Castle

Location: Inveraray, Argyll

Cost: £12 (Adults) | £6 (Children)

Highlights:

– Neo-Gothic architecture

– The Armoury Hall with a vast collection of weapons

– Beautiful gardens overlooking Loch Fyne

Getting There:

Inveraray Castle is in western Scotland. Drive or take a bus from Glasgow, about a 90-minute journey.

10. Glamis Castle

Location: Glamis, Angus

Cost: £16 (Adults) | £8 (Children)

Highlights:

– Childhood home of the Queen Mother

– The historic gardens and grounds

– The renowned Italian Garden

Getting There:

Glamis Castle is in eastern Scotland. Drive or take a train to Dundee, then a bus or taxi.

 

Explore the enchanting stories and architectural wonders of Scotland’s historic castles. Each castle offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s past, set against the backdrop of its stunning landscapes. Whether perched on a clifftop, nestled by a loch, or standing proudly in a city, these castles invite you to step back in time and immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history.

2 Responses

  1. I do not even know how I ended up here but I thought this post was great I dont know who you are but definitely youre going to a famous blogger if you arent already Cheers.

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