Scottish Castles to Explore for Breathtaking Views and History

A castle is a large building that aims to protect the king or nobles from attacks. The building has thick curtain walls and other defensive elements guaranteeing the security of residents. The actual history of the castles might be challenging to discover; however, the Citadel of Aleppo is considered the oldest castle on Earth. If we talk about the oldest Scottish castle, it is Sween Castle. In Scotland, fortresses were of great importance and they still play a significant role in the country’s recognition worldwide.

Historical Importance of Castle in Scotland

Usually, castles were an important part of Scotland, and even still, they are. Today, castles are important because they are historical parts of the country as well as attract tourists. Most castles have become commercial with time and serve as tourist points. Although some castles are still functioning with owners living in them, a large number are abandoned.
If we move back to the eras when enemies surrounded Scotland, including Vikings, the English, the Norwegians, and the Castilians. Even clan wars were quite common. Castles were the biggest place to congregate and secure the people from rivals. Strongholds then had positions to attack the opponent and some hidden routes to make the people run away in severe cases. In short, fortresses were the most important place to stay safe for a long time.

Famous Scottish Castles

Castles in Scotland are the backbone of Scottish history. Therefore, you are never far from castles in Scotland since over 2,000 forts are dispersed on land of Scots. Hence, nothing could be said about all statuses since they exist in different forms: ruined, restored, preserved, and settled. All castles are a must-visit, and declaring some as the best of them is quite daunting. Well, let’s look at a few of them!

Edinburgh Castle

Scottish fortresses are popular within the country but Edinburgh Castle is popular worldwide. In other words, the castle has become an identity of Scotland in neighbouring countries. The castle is known to grab the most number. That’s why the visitors from Scotland wearing their traditional kilt outfits come here to experience the heritage as it deserves. Built in the 12th century, this fort is still standing, offering a unique experience to visitors.

Fort itself is a great point to visit, but Edinburgh festivals make it more prominent to others. However, visiting this castle is one of the most important things to do in Edinburgh. Most popular tour point attracting people here is the National Museum of Scotland, which has millions of artifacts including The Honours of Scotland, The Great Hall, etc.

St. Andrew Castle

Another worth visiting castle in Scotland is St. Andrew Castle that was built in the 13th century. St. Andrew was a Christrian religious personality, an apostle to Jesus Christ. He was crucified like his Prophet on an x-shaped cross, which is the part of the flag called, Scottish Saltire.

Last record of the people inhabiting this castle dates back to 1592, while now it is a historical point to visit. Controlled by Historic Environment Scotland, the remains usually see people on St. Andrew’s Day, when locals move there to commemorate the day.

Balmoral Castle

The next on our list is Balmoral Castle, which was built by the end of the 14th century by King Robert II of Scotland. It got damaged with the time and got a fame when Queen Victoria bought it during the midst of the 18th century. She titled the castle as a paradise. She renovated it later and a few changes were made with some additions to the area. Today, the castle is open to visitors, only when the residents are not available.

Dunrobin Castle

It will be quite unfair to visit Scotland but not Dunrobin Castle. The fortress is almost 800 years old, initially made by the Dukes of Hamilton. Like the Balmoral Castle, this specific one is standing with the same elegance, attracting thousands of visitors. It has 189 rooms and the interior and external views of it are capable of sticking in your eyes for years.

Dunnottar Castle

Standing on a rocky top on the north east coast, Dunnottar Castle has witnessed hundreds of wars in Scotland. Today, the castle is ruined, while only the remains await visitors once it was a sign of gratefulness. It hosted many historical events and figures like Marry Queen and William Wallace. Similarly, it saved the Honour of Scotland for centuries in 1651. Visiting the fort is not free of some astonishing experiences.

Craigievar Castle

The Craigievar Castle has succeeded to register its name in the most preserved fort of Scotland. The pink exterior of the tower captivated the attention of visitors from a distance. External part of this castle is still considered untouched. Its construction began in 1576 and was completed in 1626 which is almost a longer duration of 50 years. The castle is open for tourists around the year but the visiting hours might vary depending on the season.

Eilean Donan Castle

Last but not least, the castle on our list to visit in Scotland is Eilean Donan Castle. Though people wearing traditional attires on cultural days are seen around the year but on ancient events, this fortress witnesses the number of visitors at peak. Similarly, the castle is a favorite place for those who are photo conscious. Only the beauty of the site does not attract the visitors but many movies are filmed here because of the iconic sceneries around. As a visitor, you should not miss this castle.

Abandoned Scottish Castles

Abandoned castles are those which are no longer in use or have been left to decay. These forts are scattered throughout Scotland, including ones used as prisons, castles that were vandalized, or castles that were abandoned due to disrepair. Here are some Scottish fortresses that were abandoned once, still no work is done to preserve or repair them.

1. Haunted Scottish Castles
2. Tantallon Castle
3. Falkland Palace
4. Duntrune Castle
5. Hermitage Castle

Famous Preserved Castles in Scotland

As mentioned earlier, 2000 forts in Scotland exist in different from ruined or abandoned to preserved forms. The previous passage indicated the abandoned ones, here we are going to tell you about the castles that have been preserved by earls of their owners or the Scottish government.

These castles are scattered all around the country and visitors can find them anywhere whether it is a bank of hidden loch or famous Scottish walk. Similar to fortresses there, walking tracks are very popular there. These Scottish walks offer an amazing experience defining the history. Let us move back to the topic and see the list of a few preserved castles:

1. Glamis Castle
2. Linlithgow Palace
3. Tantallon Castle
4. Stirling Castle
5. Culzean Castle & Country Park
6. Braemar Castle
7. Scone Palace
8. Palace of Holyroodhouse

Scottish Castles to Stay In

If you are a Scot, you should already be aware of a fact. In case you are not a Scot and planning to visit, let us tell you that a large number of castles provide a place to live and enjoy the beauty, in return you have to pay some money. Now, we will tell you about some Scottish castles that let you stay.

• Fonab Castle Hotel
• Tulloch Castle Hotel
• Fernie Castle Hotel
• Inverlochy Castle Hotel
• Melville Castle Hotel
• Broomhall Castle Hotel

Tips to Enjoy your Stay in Scottish Castles

Staying in Scottish castle hotels is not free of fun, since many things other than history and beauty exist. Castles have gardens, parks, lots of people around to meet and share your experience. Here are some effective tips to make the trip wonderful:

• Ensure wearing Scottish attire since they appreciate the people most who respect their tradition.
• Do not limit yourself to the room or views from the balcony, move outside instead, stroll through the garden.
• Enjoy fishing and hiking if your castle hotel is next to any loch and rocks.
• You can enjoy swimming as well.
• Many castles comprise lodges, living there might be more fruitful instead of choosing a room. Usually lodges are decorated with ancient artefacts.

Conclusion

Fortresses in Scotland exist in a large number with many visitors around the year. Visiting castles is a unique experience while it is totally ruined or very well-preserved. Some castles even serve as hotels, offering rooms and lodges to live and let you experience the real flair of Scottish culture. However, some protocols are to be followed like following the rules, avoiding any negative activity etc. Similarly, make the tour memorable by following some important tips like wearing their traditional attire to admire culture, go out to explore gardens and nearby points, fishing, hiking, and many more.