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.
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