21 Castles to Visit in Scotland: A Journey Through Time and Stone
Scotland is a land where history and legend come to life, and nowhere is that more obvious than in its incredible castles. There are over 2,000 castles in Scotland and so a lot of ground to cover! Many are nothing but a few stones piled on top of each other where others as still maintained today in all their majestic Glory (Dunrobin Castle, for instance).
As a group of expert tour guides we’ve scoured the entire country and visited many of the thousands of castles that can be found here. In this article, I’ll be showing you our list of the top 21 to narrow down your search when you come to visit.
Here are the top 21 castles you absolutely have to visit on your next trip to Scotland!
Edinburgh Castle – The Crown Jewel
Let’s start with the big one. Perched atop an extinct volcanic crag, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city’s skyline and its history. The castle has witnessed some of Scotland's most significant events, including battles, royal ceremonies, and sieges.
Inside, you’ll find the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Plus, the panoramic views over the city are unbeatable.
From Edinburgh your in a great spot to discover the rest of Scotland. You can jump on our day tours or head out for a mulitday adventure to one of the islands!
Stirling Castle – Where Kings and Queens Ruled
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most historically significant castles. It’s where Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned and where William Wallace won a decisive battle fighting for Scottish independence.
You can explore the royal apartments, stroll the stunning gardens, and get a feel for what life was like for Scotland’s medieval kings and queens.
Spend a day exploring the castle, sampling whisky at a local distillery and discover Loch Lomond’s natural beauty on a day trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Eilean Donan Castle – The Movie Star
If there’s a castle that’s been featured in more films than you can count, it’s Eilean Donan. Set on a small island where three sea lochs meet, this 13th-century castle is picture-perfect from every angle.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating displays on clan history and local life, but it’s the stunning setting that’ll leave you in awe.
We stop by Eilean Donan on our way to the Isle of Skye for an epic 3-day adventure that you’ll never forget, check it out here!
Urquhart Castle – Ruins with a View of Loch Ness
Want to mix your castle exploration with a bit of Loch Ness monster hunting? Urquhart Castle is your spot. Perched on the shores of Loch Ness, this iconic ruin has seen centuries of battles and raids.
The views over the loch are spectacular, and the sense of history is palpable as you walk among the crumbling walls.
It’s truly an epic castle ruin to explore and the visitor centre helps you understand the significance and history of this location.
Dunvegan Castle – Clan MacLeod’s Stronghold
On the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle has been home to Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. It’s the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, and it’s packed with fascinating history.
The castle’s setting overlooking Loch Dunvegan is simply stunning, and don’t miss the boat trip to see the local seal colony while you’re there!
Discover Dunvegan castle while travelling around the epic Isle of Skye on a 3-day tour that will bring you through the BEST of the highlands and all the highlights on the Isle of Skye.
Inveraray Castle – A Regal Masterpiece
This grand, fairytale-like castle on the shores of Loch Fyne is the seat of the Dukes of Argyll, head of Clan Campbell. The castle's interiors are just as impressive as its exterior, with lavish rooms filled with paintings, armor, and antique furniture.
The surrounding gardens are perfect for a peaceful wander, and the nearby town of Inveraray is worth exploring, too.
See Inveraray and Kilchurn castle, located nearby, on a 1-day standing stones day tour from Glasgow!
Glamis Castle – Haunted and Historical
Known for its beauty and its ghost stories, Glamis Castle has depth in both history and mystery. It was the childhood home of the Queen Mother and the setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
The castle’s ornate interiors are a feast for the eyes, and if you’re lucky (or unlucky), you might even encounter one of its resident ghosts.
Doune Castle – The Filming Favorite
Doune Castle might look familiar—and for good reason. It’s been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, Outlander, and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
This 14th-century fortress is remarkably well-preserved, and its atmospheric Great Hall and battlements make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Balmoral Castle – The Royal Getaway
Balmoral Castle is the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, and while it’s not always open to the public, you can still visit the grounds and gardens during certain times of the year.
The castle is surrounded by the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside, and it’s easy to see why Queen Victoria fell in love with the place.
When it’s available to visit we head to Balmoral castle on the way up to Orkney on a 5-day tour to see some of the BEST of Scotland!
Castle Fraser – A Classic Tower House
Castle Fraser is one of Scotland’s largest tower houses, and it’s a great place to explore both inside and out.
The castle’s quirky interiors include secret staircases and a hidden room, while the surrounding woodland walks and gardens make for a perfect afternoon stroll.
Caerlaverock Castle – A Unique Fortress
Caerlaverock Castle stands out for its distinctive triangular shape and its impressive moat. This medieval stronghold was built for defense, and you can still feel that sense of strength and power as you explore its towers and walls. The nearby nature reserve is great for a peaceful walk, too.
Dunnottar Castle – Clifftop Majesty
On a dramatic cliff overlooking the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle is one of the most visually striking castles in Scotland. Its remote location and turbulent history, including its role in hiding the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell, make it a must-see.
The walk up to the castle is worth every step for the views alone. Dunnottar castle is one of the most impressive looking castle ruins in all of Scotland!
Kilchurn Castle – Loch Awe’s Scenic Star
Kilchurn Castle, sitting on the shores of Loch Awe, is one of Scotland’s most picturesque ruins. Its remote location, surrounded by mountains and water, makes it a photographer’s dream.
The castle is open for exploration, and you can climb up its tower for incredible views of the loch and surrounding countryside.
Discover Kilchurn castle and nearby Inveraray castle on a day trip from Glasgow where you’ll also travel back in time thousands of years to witness Kilmartin Glen - site of ancient burial cairns and standing stones.
Blackness Castle – The Ship That Never Sailed
Blackness Castle is known as "the ship that never sailed" because of its unique shape, which looks like a giant stone ship.
This 15th-century fortress on the shores of the Firth of Forth has served as everything from a royal residence to a prison, and its thick walls and towers make for a fascinating visit.
It’s not far from Edinburgh and you can also visit nearby Linlithgow Palace on your way there!
Dirleton Castle – A Romantic Ruin
Dirleton Castle’s lush gardens and medieval ruins make it one of Scotland’s most romantic castles. The castle’s history stretches back to the 13th century, and its beautifully preserved gardens are the perfect spot for a peaceful wander.
Don’t miss the nearby seaside town of North Berwick while you’re in the area.
Sinclair Castle – Ruins on the Edge of the World
Sinclair Castle, also called Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, feels like it’s sitting right on the edge of the world. Perched on the rugged cliffs of Caithness, this dramatic ruin overlooks the crashing waves of the North Sea.
Once a mighty fortress for the Sinclair clan, it’s now a hauntingly beautiful spot to explore. The remote location and wild scenery give it an untamed vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden treasure.
This is one of my favourite ruins in Scotland and can be visited on our 5-day Orkney tour, check it out here.
Castle Campbell – The Lowland Jewel
Also known as "Castle Gloom," Castle Campbell towers over the town of Dollar in Clackmannanshire. This 15th-century gem is surrounded by lush glens and woodlands, making it the perfect spot for a scenic day out.
The hike up is worth it just for the epic views from the top. It’s a mix of history and natural beauty that’s hard to beat.
Tantallon Castle – The Ruin on the Edge of the Sea
Tantallon Castle is all about location, location, location! Perched right on the cliffs overlooking the Firth of Forth, it’s been a dramatic ruin since the 17th century. You can wander around the old towers and dungeons while soaking in some pretty stunning coastal views.
Walking up to this castle is like arriving at the gates to another world… a truly stunning castle to visit on your next trip to Scotland!
Culzean Castle – Coastal Grandeur
Culzean Castle is as grand as it gets, sitting high on the cliffs of the Ayrshire coast. The interiors are something out of a fairytale with luxurious rooms and that sweeping staircase.
Plus, the grounds are amazing—miles of trails and gardens that make for a perfect day of exploring. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel a bit royal.
Castle Stalker – Remote and Iconic
Castle Stalker is one of those castles you’ve probably seen on postcards. It’s on a tiny tidal islet in Loch Laich, giving it that wild, remote vibe.
You can only visit by appointment, but honestly, just taking in the view from the shore is iconic enough. It’s a Highland treasure for sure and I’m surprised not many stop by to take a look!
Dunrobin Castle - The Majestic Beauty
Dunrobin Castle looks like something straight out of a fairytale, with its towering spires and stunning coastal views overlooking the Moray Firth. As one of the largest castles in Scotland and the historic home of the Dukes of Sutherland, it’s steeped in history and charm.
Inside, the grand rooms are filled with intricate details, antiques, and artwork, while the beautifully manicured gardens are simple incredible. With its French château-inspired architecture and breathtaking surroundings, Dunrobin feels like a slice of magic in the Scottish Highlands.
You can visit Dunrobin castle on our 5-day Orkney tour as well as castle Sinclair and many other incredible spots on the mainland and on Orkney - the island of ancient history! Check out the itinerary here.
The wealth of castles we have in Scotland is one of the highlights of visiting. There’s nothing like stepping back in time while walking the halls of these once (and sometimes still) magnificent structures.
If you’re thinking about a trip to Scotland and you don’t know where to go, you can grab our free itinerary booklet here by signing up to our mailing list - you’ll receive info and inspo into all things Scotland!
