Best Historical Castles to Visit on Your Trip to Scotland

Here in Scotland we are lucky to still have around 1000 historical castles scattered across the country in some incredible locations. I am compiling a list of the best historical castles that I have visited that I think you will love.

As always this is a working list so will be forever growing and changing. If you have any suggestions of ones to add, please leave a suggestion in the comments. Check out the best waterfalls to visit in Scotland.

Best Historical Castles to Visit on Your Trip to Scotland

Edinburgh Castle Location - Edinburgh Postcode - EH1 2NG Cost - £19.50 online

Let's start with one of Scotland's most famous castles, the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Located in the heart of Edinburgh atop Castle Rock, it's a must-see when visiting the capital. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle has served as a royal residence, a military base, and has always been a significant symbol of Scottish heritage. Entry to the castle costs £20 if booked online (recommended due to long queues and possible sell outs), and you will need at least 3 hours for your visit to explore properly. As one of Edinburgh's top tourist attractions, it can get very crowded, so be prepared for lots of people. Inside, you'll step back in time to see the Stone of Destiny, the Crown Jewels of Scotland, and the Great Hall filled with medieval weapons. If you're there at 1pm, you can experience the firing of the one o'clock gun. Annually, the castle hosts the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an incredible event that fills you with Scottish pride.

With stunning views of the city, the castle really showcases Scotland's history, architecture, and culture, making it well worth a visit.

Dunnottar Castle Location - Stonehaven Postcode - AB39 2TL Cost - £13

This magnificent 14th-century castle is believed to have inspired the castle in Disney's "Brave." As you approach, you'll see it spectacularly perched on top of a 160 ft cliff, offering breath taking views of the North Sea. Below the castle, there's a small bay where the waves come crashing in - it's pretty mesmerizing, and you might even spot some seals. There are quite a lot of stairs leading down to the castle (around 150 I think, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes). If you prefer not to tackle the steps, the views of the castle from above are equally impressive. Entry to the castle costs £13, allowing you to explore the ruins that once belonged to one of Scotland's most powerful families. With its dramatic appearance, it is a favourite among filmmakers, making it an iconic symbol of Scottish heritage. Definitely worth a visit if you are near the east coast.

Craigievar Castle Location - Alford Postcode - AB33 8JF Cost - £17

Is this the Scottish castle that inspired Walt Disney? Craigievar is said to be the inspiration behind the enchanting Disney castles with its magical architecture. The grounds around the castle are charming with beautiful lawns, well kept gardens and vibrant flowerbeds which creates even more of a story book setting. We did not book to go inside but I believe inside there are a number of well preserved rooms filled with elegant furnishings and stunning artwork. Please be aware that if you would like to go inside, you must book a tour in person and numbers are limited so you may have to wait outside for a while. The castle's pink exterior and fairy-tale design attract photographers and social media enthusiasts, offering a unique and striking setting. This Scottish castle is a breath taking sight steeped in history and inspiration, captivating visitors with its magic.

Elcho Castle Location - Perth Postcode - PH2 8QQ Cost - £8.50

A hidden gem located between Dundee and Perth, which I only discovered a few months ago. For just £8.50, you can explore the remaining floors of this well-preserved 16th-century castle. Inside, you'll find the banquet room, chambers, grand staircase, kitchen, and the most long drop toilets I have ever seen under one roof!! The castle was originally constructed as a "party castle," which might explain the abundance of toilets? The views from the top floor are stunning, but make sure you have a head for heights and don't mind some rather large cobwebs in the turret rooms. If heights aren't your thing, you can explore the lower floors and take a stroll through the beautiful orchards to pick some fruit. They often offer guided tours, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the castle's history and its regional significance. At the reception desk, I believe they have medieval costumes available for hire if you want to take some photos and pretend to be a princess for the day.

This is a fantastic day out and an excellent way to spend time away from the nearby cities, I would highly recommend a visit here. If you would like to find other things to do in the area check out this blog.

Kelburn Castle Location - Largs Postcode - KA29 0BE Cost - £5 parking

A 13th-century castle in Ayrshire that underwent a controversial transformation in the early 2000s by a group of Brazilian artists, making it a vibrant and unmissable landmark. Surrounded by lush gardens, the castle hosts numerous events and garden parties throughout the year. With a rich history of noble tales and resilience, the interior boasts grand halls and luxurious rooms filled with antiques and art, reflecting Scottish aristocratic life. The secret garden on the grounds is worth exploring for an additional £5 entry fee. The estate features stunning gardens adorned with art and sculptures by local artists, a variety of plants and trails, waterfalls, farm animals, breath taking views, and offers a tranquil escape. It’s an excellent day out for both adults and children and you can spend so long exploring here. If the weather is nice this is a great place to enjoy a picnic or a tasty snack from the café.

Eilean Donan Castle Location - Kyle of Lochalsh Postcode - IV40 8DX Cost - £12

Is this one of the most iconic views in Scotland? Eilean Donan is a stunning 13th-century medieval fortress that stands where three sea lochs meet, giving this spot breath taking landscapes. Restored in the mid 1900's, it retains its historical and architectural beauty. To enter the castle it will cost you £12, allowing you to explore the rich history of the inside of the castle. Please note that photography inside the castle is not allowed. At night, the illuminated castle offers a fairy tale scene, attracting photographers and romantics. A gift shop and café at the entrance provide souvenirs and refreshments with views of the lochs - you do not need to enter the castle to enjoy its beauty.

Castle Ruins in Scotland

Dunskey Castle Location - Portpatrick Postcode - DG9 9AA Cost - Free

Located on the southwestern coast of Scotland these castle remains are an absolutely amazing place to explore. Dunskey Castle, a 16th century structure, is rumoured to be haunted. Despite its age, the castle remains in relatively good condition and can be explored with caution. You can roam through the crumbling rooms of what used to be a grand building. You can even go down to the cellar where the pigeons might make you jump out your skin with fright as you venture in to each new room. It is easy to picture how glorious this must have been back in the day. The castle is rumoured to be haunted by a nurse maid, piper, jester and a hairy man - quite a quirky crew. I honestly think I might have caught a ghost in a video on my phone - but haters will say it was dust.

To reach the castle, park at the harbour in Portpatrick and walk from there. The coastal walk to the castle takes you up steep stairs and across a wooden bridge where you are towering over the sea cliffs - a thrilling sight to see the gulls swooping underneath you around the cliffs. On a clear day, you can even see all the way over to Ireland

Getting to the castle & back takes around an hour but you can continue the walk around the coast using this route. 

In my opinion these are the best historical castles to visit in Scotland that I have visited so far. If you have any suggestions of other places to visit, please let me know in the comments. I hope you enjoy exploring them as much as I did. Feel free to check out my other blogs about exploring in Scotland.