- What role do castles play in the Scottish landscape?
- Castles are an integral part of the Scottish landscape, with experts believing that Scotland was once home to more than 3000 castles.
- How many castles remain in Scotland?
- Although many castles are no longer standing, there are still plenty remaining for visitors to explore.
- What types of castles can visitors explore in Scotland?
- Visitors can explore a variety of castles, including moody ruins perched on clifftops, rugged fortresses in the Highlands, and the homes of Earls and Dukes.
- What attracts visitors to Scotland's castles?
- Whether you're a history enthusiast, a medieval artifact buff, or someone who enjoys the beauty of the rugged Scottish landscape, Scotland's castles offer something for everyone.
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1. Balmoral Castle
Tour royal grounds and enjoy a peaceful, romantic Highland retreat.
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- What is Balmoral Castle?
- Owned by the Royal Family since 1852, Balmoral Castle is situated on a 50,000-acre working estate that spans moors, forests, and farmland.
- Is Balmoral Castle open to the public?
- Although the castle is the private residence of the Royal Family, the gardens and ballroom are open to the public every day between the beginning of April and the end of July when the Queen comes for her annual stay.
- What facilities and attractions are available for visitors?
- Visitors can also enjoy a gift shop, cafe, and the exhibitions held in the stables.
- Are tours available at Balmoral Castle?
- Audio handset tours are included in the price of admission, and guests are recommended to allow a minimum of 90 minutes for their visit.
- Where is Balmoral Castle located?
- Cairngorms National Park, Balmoral Estates, Ballater AB35 5TB, Phone: +44-13-39-74-25-34
2. Blair Castle
Explore lavish interiors and stroll gardens on an exciting historic trip.
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- What is Blair Castle?
- Open to the public since 1936, Blair Castle is the ancestral home of the Clan Murray and the most visited historic house in Scotland.
- How many rooms are available for viewing at Blair Castle?
- There are 30 well-furnished rooms available for viewing, including the dining room, drawing room, and ballroom.
- What types of tours are available at Blair Castle?
- Self-guided tours are made easy by informative exhibits in every room and guides on every floor.
- Guided tours are available free of charge for groups of 12 or more.
- What outdoor attractions are available at Blair Castle?
- Visitors can also explore the many acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, including:
- The walled nine-acre Hercules Garden
- The Sculpture Trail that winds through the castle grounds
- The children's woodland playground
- Where is Blair Castle located?
- Cairngorms National Park, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5TL, Phone: +44-17-96-48-12-07
3. Braemar Castle
Discover clan history and enjoy a quiet stop in the Scottish Highlands.
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- What is the history of Braemar Castle?
- Originally built in 1628 as a hunting lodge for the Earls of Mar, Braemar Castle is a five-story building centered around a large tower that houses a beautiful spiral staircase.
- Who operates Braemar Castle?
- The castle is run by the local community, and 12 furnished rooms are open to the public.
- What types of tours are available at Braemar Castle?
- Audio tours in both English and German are included in the price of admission.
- Guided tours are usually available on weekends and during peak summer months.
- What special events are hosted at Braemar Castle?
- The castle sometimes hosts events such as:
- Murder mystery dinners
- Memorial concerts
- It can also be reserved for weddings and other special celebrations.
- Where is Braemar Castle located?
- Cairngorms National Park, Braemar, Ballater AB35 5XR, Phone: +44-13-39-74-12-19
4. Brodie Castle
Admire antique collections and enjoy a spring walk through floral gardens.
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- What is the history of Brodie Castle?
- Located on a 71-hectare estate, Brodie Castle was the home of the Brodie family until 1980, when it was placed into the ownership of the National Trust.
- What can visitors see inside Brodie Castle?
- The building has been carefully restored and is home to:
- A large number of valuable antiques
- An impressive art collection
- Various other interesting artifacts
- What facilities and activities are available for visitors?
- Visitors can relax in the tearoom.
- Springtime offers the opportunity to see more than 100 different kinds of daffodils in bloom.
- What are some highlights of the Brodie Castle estate?
- The estate features:
- A walled garden
- A nature trail
- A gift shop
- A large adventure playground suitable for children of all ages
- Where is Brodie Castle located?
- Brodie, Forres IV36 2TE, Phone: +44-13-09-64-13-71
5. Caerlaverock Castle
Explore a rare triangular fortress and enjoy an unusual, scenic outing.
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- What makes Caerlaverock Castle unique?
- As one of the most visited castles in Scotland, Caerlaverock Castle is easily recognizable thanks to its distinctive triangular shape and moat.
- Where is Caerlaverock Castle located?
- The castle is located in Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve, making it easy for visitors to enhance their trip with a peaceful stroll on one of the nature trails or a bit of bird-watching.
- What attractions and facilities does Caerlaverock Castle offer?
- Highlights of the estate include:
- Siege warfare exhibits
- A children's playground
- A tearoom
- A shop that sells homemade meals and locally made jams
- When can visitors explore Caerlaverock Castle?
- Visitors are welcome at the castle year-round.
- Are there any age restrictions for visitors?
- Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
- How can visitors contact Caerlaverock Castle?
- Caerlaverock, Dumfries DG1 4RU, Phone: +44-13-16-68-88-00
6. Castle Campbell
Hike to dramatic ruins and enjoy breathtaking sights on a fall trip.
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- What makes Castle Campbell unique?
- Dramatically situated on a natural bridge between two ravines, Castle Campbell is just as well-known for its amazing views as it is for its wonderful 15th-century architecture.
- What visitor information is available at Castle Campbell?
- Plenty of information is available at the Visitor's Center, but some of the rooms also contain interpretative displays.
- Are there walking trails near Castle Campbell?
- There are several excellent walking trails through the ravine, some of which pass by waterfalls.
- Visitors should note that these trails can be quite slippery when wet.
- What other attractions can visitors enjoy at Castle Campbell?
- Visitors can also:
- Stroll along the castle's unique open walkway
- Meander around the cobbled courtyard
- Explore the beautiful terraced gardens that offer great views down the valley
- Where is Castle Campbell located?
- Castle Rd, Dollar FK14 7PP, Phone: +44-12-59-74-24-08
7. Castle Menzies
Walk through clan heritage and enjoy a peaceful, affordable visit.
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- What is the history of Castle Menzies?
- Originally built in the 16th century, Castle Menzies was rescued in the 20th century and carefully restored from a state of ruin.
- How does Castle Menzies differ from other castles?
- The restoration means that the castle is not as well furnished as some others, but this gives visitors the opportunity to get a closer look at the architectural details.
- Can visitors explore Castle Menzies freely?
- Almost every room is open to visitors.
- Guided tours are not offered; instead, visitors are permitted to wander freely through the building.
- When is Castle Menzies open to the public?
- The castle is typically open from April through October.
- Visitors are advised to check the opening times and dates to avoid disappointment.
- Where is Castle Menzies located?
- Weem, Aberfeldy PH15 2JD, Phone: +44-18-87-82-09-82
8. Cawdor Castle
Tour literary legend and admire romantic gardens steeped in myth.
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- What is Cawdor Castle best known for?
- Cawdor Castle is perhaps best known for its name being linked to Shakespeare's famous play Macbeth, but the castle is well worth visiting even without that connection.
- What is the architectural history of Cawdor Castle?
- A 15th-century tower house sits at the center of the building, but many additions were made over the years.
- Other notable rooms include the 16th-century drawing room and the 17th-century Tapestry Bedroom.
- Is Cawdor Castle still inhabited?
- The castle is still home to the Cawdor family, but it is open to the public during the summer.
- What activities can visitors enjoy at Cawdor Castle?
- Visitors can:
- Play a round of golf on the castle's 9-hole course
- Stroll through one of the beautiful gardens
- Where is Cawdor Castle located?
- Cawdor, Nairn IV12 5RD, Phone: +44-16-67-40-44-01
9. Culzean Castle
Explore cliffside views and enjoy exciting attractions on a family-friendly trip.
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- Where is Culzean Castle located?
- Perched on a cliff in the Culzean Castle Country Park, Culzean Castle offers excellent views towards The Isle of Arran.
- Can visitors stay overnight at Culzean Castle?
- Six of the castle's top floor bedrooms can be booked by overnight guests.
- Each of the bedrooms can accommodate two adults, and all guests share access to the dining and drawing rooms.
- What architectural and historical features does Culzean Castle have?
- A dramatic oval staircase is the centerpiece of the home.
- Visitors can also admire the large collections of swords, flintlock pistols, paintings, and antique furniture.
- When is Culzean Castle open to visitors?
- The castle is open to visitors during the summer, but the Visitor's Center and the park are open year-round.
- How can visitors contact Culzean Castle?
- Maybole KA19 8LE, Phone: +44-16-55-88-44-55
10. Drum Castle
Climb the tower and explore one of Scotland’s oldest castles on a quick visit.
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- What is the historical significance of Drum Castle?
- With an unaltered tower house that dates back to the 13th century, Drum Castle has deep roots in Scottish history.
- What can visitors explore inside Drum Castle?
- Visitors can:
- Admire the beautiful chapel
- Stroll through the Jacobean mansion house that was added in the 1620s
- Climb the castle tower to enjoy the view from the battlements
- What outdoor attractions are available at Drum Castle?
- There is plenty to explore outside the castle as well, including:
- An old oak forest
- A walled garden that houses a collection of historic roses
- Can Drum Castle be booked for special events?
- The castle's dining hall and chapel can be booked for weddings and other special events.
- The castle occasionally hosts public events such as music performances and car rallies.
- Where is Drum Castle located?
- Drumoak, Banchory AB31 5EY, Phone: +44-13-30-70-03-34
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather and fewer tourists.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel – A luxurious castle stay near Fort William.
Visit Edinburgh Castle early – Arrive in the morning to avoid crowds.
Summer (June-August) – Longer days and lively festivals.
Dalhousie Castle – A historic castle hotel with a spa.
Explore Eilean Donan Castle – One of Scotland’s most iconic and photographed castles.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning autumn colors and fewer visitors.
Fonab Castle Hotel – A scenic castle retreat near Pitlochry.
Take a guided tour of Stirling Castle – Learn about its rich history and royal connections.
Plan Your Trip
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