9 Great Scottish Castles

Set in the serene countryside of Aberdeenshire, Queen Victoria lovingly described Balmoral as her "dear paradise in the Highlands", and it still remains a private home of the Royal Family. When the Royals are not in residence, visitors can enjoy exhibitions in the Castle Ballroom, the largest room in the castle, and wander through the charming gardens and grounds.

Set atop a craggy extinct volcano in the hear of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Castle is unquestionably Scotland’s most famous castle. This sprawling complex houses the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. Famous Scots throughout history have made their mark on the castle, from Mary Queen of Scots to Sir Walter Scott. Make sure to get there in time for the spectacular firing of the One O’ Clock Gun!

Dramatic doesn’t even begin to cover this formidable cliff-top stronghold. Perched on an immense rocky outcrop overlooking the north east coast, Dunnottar has witnessed many pivotal moments in Scotland’s history as a fortress of the Earls of Marischal. The sight of it silhouetted against the setting sun is truly spellbinding.

Meticulously restored to its original Renaissance glory, Stirling Castle was the favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens. Highlights include the Great Hall, Chapel Royal and Tapestry Studio, where you can delve into a world of decadence, plots and intrigue. It's also a great place to bring the family - the kids will love meeting costumed courtiers, bodyguards and servants!

Eilean Donan has to be one of the most photographed castles in the world with a site history that dates back to 643 AD. It boasts a romantic setting on an island at the entrance of Loch Duich, surrounded by the forested mountains of Kintail and overlooking the Isle of Skye. Eilean Donan is steeped in Jacobite lore and history; amongst the rare artefacts on display is a sword said to have been wielded at Culloden. More recently, you might recognise it as a backdrop in films including Highlander, The World is Not Enough and Rob Roy.

The red sandstone walls of Glamis have been home to many colourful characters throughout the centuries, not least of them the late Queen Mother. Once the family home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, it also famously features in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Crowned with iconic battlements and pointed turrets, Glamis is the epitome of baronial grandeur and is only a short trip from Dundee. 

Inveraray Castle is one of Scotland's finest stately homes and the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, Chiefs of the Campbell Clan since the early 15th century. With an intricate façade and sumptuous interiors, the castle embodies the pinnacle of 18th century neoclassical elegance. Admire priceless Beauvais tapestries in the Drawing Room, as well as outstanding views of Loch Fyne.

The fictional home of the Thane of Cawdor in Shakespeare's Macbeth, Cawdor Castle ranks among Scotland’s most enchanting castles. Celebrated for its fairy-tale edifice, dramatic history and romantic gardens - parts of which are over 300 years old - a visit here is like stepping into bygone age. According to local legend, if you visit the castle dungeons you can still see a thorn or holly tree which the castle was built around dating back to 1372. 

The white-washed Blair Castle stands proudly against a backdrop of wooded hills rising above the River Garry. The ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl, it is also the home of Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders. Explore its opulent rooms, sprawling estate and peaceful surroundings in the heart of the Highlands.