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Pulling together a list of the best castles in Scotland is a bit like trying to decide on the best pub in London.
There are over a thousand castles scattered across the nation, although to get to that number you do have to be generous – many structures that fit the definition would not do a good job of keeping invaders at bay. With that said, if you want to castle hunt on your Scotland trip there will be no shortage of wow moments, with hundreds still looming over their stunning surroundings.
Ready to explore the spectacular fortresses that dot this rugged landscape? Read on for our guide to the 20 best castles in Scotland you need to visit!
1. Stirling Castle
Perched above the historic city it’s named for, Stirling Castle is steeped in history. There have been mentions of the castle complex as far back as the 12th century, and it is one of the best preserved medieval castles not just in Scotland, but in the world. Mary, Queen of Scots and James IV grew up in its hallowed halls (alongside a number of other important Scottish kings), and it has survived at least eight sieges.
Stirling Castle is also incredibly easy to get to, with the main city bus and train stations within walking distance. Parking and park and ride services are also available, making the magic of this glorious Scottish castle readily accessible. If you’ve booked onto our Scotland in a Week tour, you’ll have the opportunity to experience this wonder, so make sure you take advantage.
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2. Edinburgh Castle
There’s no doubt that Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. The ancient Scottish capital is laden with cultural and historical treasures (and filming locations for a certain movie franchise about a boy wizard), but none are as iconic as Edinburgh Castle.
The fortress and royal residence now welcomes visitors from around the world, but its history is one of resistance, bloodshed, and scheming. After all, it is the most besieged castle in Europe. If ancient Scottish poetry is to be believed, its privileged status goes back to the Iron Age, but we can be certain the castle’s link to royalty goes back at least a millennia. Nowadays it fulfils both touristic and military functions, acting as an active base to the army while welcoming over 1.9 million visitors a year.
Getting here couldn’t be easier: it’s a short (but relatively steep) walk up the Royal Mile and Castlehill, but the rewards couldn’t be more worth the journey. Undoubtedly one of the best Scottish castles.
3. Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle might not have been a seat of royalty, but the stone building and its gardens are regal. Built at the tail-end of the Middle Ages by the 6th Thane of Cawdor, it was famously constructed around a holly tree, which some believe has granted the structure luck. While the castle is incredible the manicured gardens are an attraction in their own right.
Getting here by car is easy via a clearly signposted route from Inverness Airport. If you can’t drive, a taxi from Inverness isn’t too expensive, or you can hop in a bus to the seaside town of Nairn and grab a taxi from there.
The Thane of Cawdor is a real title, but it’s also widely associated with Macbeth, so Shakespeare fans have even more reason to visit. Even if you’re not big on the bard, there’s no doubt this is one of the best castles in Scotland.
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4. Balmoral Castle
Nestled in the rugged heart of the Highlands lies the magical Balmoral Castle. This impressive Baronial style building and its grounds are the Royal Family’s Scottish home, but large chunks of the grounds are occasionally open to the public – although this has only recently been the case for much of the estate.
The history of this Scottish castle stretches back hundreds of years, although the current structure was primarily built in the 19th century, just after it was purchased by Queen Victoria.
5. Craigievar Castle
This magical castle is said to have inspired Disney’s world-famous Cinderella Castle. Located in Aberdeenshire, its striking pink exterior stands out against the wide Scottish sky, and this unique characteristic is well maintained in the face of the Scottish dreich by National Trust for Scotland.
If you’ve hired a car then getting to the castle is straightforward from Aberdeen, the nearest big city. Alternatively you can get a train to Alford, where you can arrange for a taxi for the short drive.
6. Dunnottar Castle
There’s ancient castles, and then there’s Dunnottar Castle. Carbon dating by experts at the University of Aberdeen has shown that the Picts had a fort on Dunnottar’s grounds that was potentially established around 5000 BC.
The cliff-top ruin might not currently be suitable to defend Scotland’s borders, but it is incredibly well preserved. Dramatic seaside surroundings only add to the visiting experience, and the weight of the castle’s history is palpable in the atmosphere. If you’re up to it, the castle is on the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, but is also accessible by car. You can also get a train to Stonehaven and get a taxi.
7. Eilean Donan Castle
Built in the 13th century to protect the lands of Kintail against Viking raids, Eilean Donan has had a tumultuous history, but retains a uniquely dramatic beauty. Sitting on an island at the confluence of three lochs, the famed castle was most recently rebuilt in the early 20th century after lying in ruins for 200 years.
You can get here via ferry from the Isle of Skye, and while the local area has a remote feel, there is great infrastructure, meaning you can check out one of the best castles in Scotland with ease.
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8. Duart Castle
The windswept Hebrides never fail to disappoint when it comes to scenery, and Duart Castle is no exception. Restored to its former glory in 2011, this stunning stone castle was originally built by a local Gaelic clan, and protects the coast of the Isle of Mull. It’s also home to one of the most delightful tea rooms in the UK, so you can combine culture and cake. What’s not to love?
9. Blair Castle
The story of Blair Castle cannot be untangled from the history of Scotland. The ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl, this pearl white castle sparkles under the (rare) sun and shines against the (common) clouds. Tucked away in a rugged Perthshire valley, the first castle-like structure was built on the land in 1269, so it’s been here a while.
Nowadays the castle is open to the public, and its treasures are well worth the 2-hour train journey or drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Tapestry Room is a unique spectacle, with its walls covered in luxurious tapestries that once belonged to Charles I. One of the best castles in Scotland if you really want a taste of nobility.
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10. Inveraray Castle
Located on the shores of Loch Fyne, this breathtaking castle has always been a big hit with visitors and locals alike, and its popularity as an attraction has only increased since it was used as a Downton Abbey filming location.
This choice makes sense, Inveraray Castle having a refined, regal aesthetic, especially during spring and summer when the vibrant gardens are in bloom. There are regular buses from Glasgow city centre to the castle, so it’s also simple to get here.
11. Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle in its current iteration was built in 1836, but some kind of fort or castle has stood on this ground for nearly a millennia. It’s an ideal location, looming over the River Ness in the Highland’s biggest city, from which it draws its name.
A striking red sandstone building, this castle has recently been refurbished and in late 2025 will reopen as a tourist attraction. Aside from exhibits about its tumultuous and bloody history, there is also another Macbeth link – it is the site of King Duncan’s murder in the play, and where the tragic figure and his wife lived, went mad, and perished.
12. Linlithgow Palace
The birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots fell into disrepair in the Stuart Period, but thanks to brilliant efforts by Historic Environment Scotland, the castle remains one of the most interesting attractions in Scotland today.
Located a short drive, bus, or train from Edinburgh, and not much longer away from Glasgow, Linlithgow Palace is missing the splendour of better maintained castles, but the gravity of its history and stunning architecture make it worth a visit. If you love a spooky story you should pay it a visit – it’s said to be haunted by Mary, Queen of Scots’ mother, Mary Guise.
13. St. Andrews Castle
St Andrews may be best known as the birthplace of golf, but the ruined castle is worth a visit to anyone coming through the ancient town on our England and Scotland tour. The last remaining tower gazes over Castle Sands beach and stands strong against North Sea wind, and a nearby visitor’s centre tells the story of the medieval building. One of the best castles in Scotland thanks to its storied past and ease of access.
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14. Urquhart Castle
The splendid ruins of this castle hug the shore of the world-famous Loch Ness. The wild landscape adds to the already dramatic aesthetic of the once grand building, which in its pomp was one of the largest castles in all of Scotland.
Because of its location, it’s easy to get to Urquhart Castle via road and tour bus. Alternatively, if you’re on our Scotland and Ireland tour you’ll have a chance to explore the Loch Ness area and take a peek at this phenomenal landmark.
15. Dean Castle
Dean Castle sits in the centre of Dean Castle Country Park, and is so much more than a historical treasure. The grounds of the park stretch over 200 acres, and are filled with gorgeous landscapes and stunning wildlife that’s as awe-inspiring as any Scottish forests. The castle itself is a wonderful day out, easily accessible from nearby Kilmarnock, and best of all, entry is free.
16. Culzean Castle
Culzean Castle is one of the newer castles on this list, but that doesn’t mean it is lacking pedigree: an illustration of the castle was on the back of Scottish five pound notes until 2015, and its history stretches back over 200 years.
Operated by National Trust Scotland, Culzean Castle and its grounds overlook the Fyrth of Clyde. The main buildings were designed by the world famous architect Robert Adam and are a stunning example of the Classical Revival he championed. His patron for the site, David Kennedy, was keen to show off his wealth and status, and after a visit here it’s safe to say he succeeded.
17. Caerlaverock Castle
The triangular Caerlaverock Castle is like a real-life version of what we imagine working medieval fortress to be. Sitting just south of Dumfries and on the edge of the remarkable Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve, this grand stone structure is guarded by a real life, actual moat.
Caerlaverock’s tale is full of spilled blood and political intrigue, but nowadays it is one of the most beloved attractions in the country, and one of the best castles in Scotland to visit.
18. Dunyvaig Castle
Whisky lovers flock to Islay for its famous malts, but the remains of the once great Dunyvaig Castle adds another reason for stopping off on the southernmost island of the Hebrides. Constructed on the remains of an Iron Age fort, the castle is a wonderful place to take in some culture between drams of high quality whisky. You won’t have to wait too long until your next tipple, though, because Lagavulin’s distillery is practically a neighbour.
19. Falkland Palace
Everything about Falkland Palace is majestic. The vast grounds were once royal hunting grounds, and the main structures, built in the first half of the 16th century, are a marvel to walk through. Falkland Palace is also home to the oldest real tennis court in Britain, built in 1539.
This Renaissance palace is also blessed with a number of stately rooms and halls, the best of which is the awe-inspiring Chapel Royal. Don’t try to rush your visit here: it’s one of Scotland’s best castles, so deserves a whole day.
20. Dunalastair Castle
Castles are often associated with ancient spirits roaming the halls, but few have as ghostly an atmosphere as the abandoned Dunalastair Castle. The imposing structure sits in a relatively remote wooded area. Although it is yet to be restored to its full glory, Dunalastair Castle is still worth a visit just for taking in the atmosphere.
