Edinburgh Castle
Let’s kick off with a classic. Edinburgh Castle is possibly the most famous castle in Scotland, with over a million visitors every year. A lot of this has to do with its prime location in the capital city. Perched on top of an extinct volcano, most visitors to Edinburgh will get a glimpse of the striking castle on the city’s skyline and feel compelled to explore.
Highlights include getting to drool over the Crown Jewels of Scotland, learning more about the Stone of Destiny, and visiting the 12th-century St Margaret’s Chapel. There’s also the tradition of the firing of the One O’Clock Gun (every day except Sunday). There’s an excellent guided tour, or you can choose to wander the grounds yourself.
Trains to Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Waverley train station in the centre of the city is a mere 10-minute walk away from the castle.
Opening times
Summer – 09:00 to 18:00
Winter – 09:30 to 17:00
Tickets
Adults (16 to 59 years) from £17*
Children (5 to 15 years) from £10*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019
Castle Fraser
If you’ve seen The Queen with Helen Mirren, you may recognise this 5-storey medieval castle in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire. It’s known for its romantic towers, grand aesthetic, and impressive portrait collection. Head to the tower tops to take in panoramic views of the perfectly manicured gardens.
Love a spooky back story? A murdered princess is rumoured to haunt Castle Fraser at night. There are also several quirky features to explore, including hidden trapdoors and secret staircases.
Trains to Castle Fraser
Take a train to Inverurie station and grab a taxi to Castle Fraser 8 miles away.
Opening times
2nd to 31st March, Saturday and Sunday – 11:00 to 14:00
1st April to 31st October, all days – 10:00 to 16:00
2nd November to 15th December, Saturday and Sunday – 11:00 to 14:00
Tickets
Adults from £12*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle in Argyllshire is the epitome of a fairytale castle, situated on the banks of Loch Fyne. This 18th-century castle looks straight out of a Disney movie. And it doesn’t fail to impress on the inside. The elegant interiors are truly sumptuous and a feast for the eyes. Indulge like a royal in the gorgeous tea room, and spend some time roaming through the vast gardens.
Downton Abbey fans, you may recognise parts of Inveraray Castle from one of the show’s epic Christmas episodes.
Trains to Inveraray Castle
The nearest train station is Dalmally Train Station, about 15 miles away.
Opening times
1st April to 31st October, Monday to Sunday – 10:00 to 17:45
Tickets
Adults from £12.50*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019
Eilean Donan Castle
This picturesque 13th-century castle’s location on a small island enclosed by sea lochs has made it one of the most iconic castles in Scotland. Other than admiring its gorgeous setting and taking multiple photos, you can also spend some time wandering the rooms to discover rare artefacts and well-preserved period furniture.
This striking castle has been featured in various tv shows and films over the years, including James Bond – The World is Not Enough.
Trains to Eilean Donan Castle
Kyle of Lochalsh is the closest railway station. From here, you can take a bus service to the castle. You may find that a taxi is the quickest option, especially on weekends.
Opening times
1st February to 23rd March – 10:00 to 16:00
24th March to 26th October – 10:00 to 18:00
27th October to 30th December – 10.00 to 16:00
Tickets
Adults from £10*
Children over five from £6*
Children under five – free*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019
Dunnottar Castle
Approach this castle, and you’ll find yourself immediately in awe of its setting. Dunnottar Castle is a medieval fortress dramatically perched on top of a cliff overlooking the coast. Many of the castle buildings were ruined over the centuries, but you can learn a lot about its fascinating history by exploring the remains.
What makes this castle an absolute must-visit is the beautiful cliffside hike leading up to it, so walk here if you can!
Trains to Dunnottar Castle
The nearest train station to Dunnottar Castle is Stonehaven. From here, you can take the gorgeous coastal route and walk to the castle in an hour. You can also take a bus or taxi from the town centre which drops you off close to the castle.
Opening times
Summer – 09:00 to 17:30
Winter – 10:00 to 15:00 (closing time can fluctuate in the winter months)
Tickets
Adults from £7*
Children from £3*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019
Stirling Castle
Want to immerse yourself in Scottish royal history? Stirling Castle is an imposing building and historically significant past royal residence that has been restored with great care. It also makes for a great family day out, with costumed characters playing knights and nobles, and the opportunity for your kids to dress up in period costumes and try out medieval instruments.
Trains to Stirling Castle
Stirling station is the nearest train station, with frequent services from Edinburgh & Glasgow. The castle is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
Opening times
Summer – 09:30 to 18:00
Winter – 09:30 to 17:00
Tickets
Adults from £15*
Children over five from £9*
Children under five – free*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019
Culzean Castle
One of the best castles in Scotland if you’re looking for sheer opulence and luxurious well-maintained interiors. Culzean castle has been built in the neo-classical Georgian style and is surrounded by over 600 acres of what’s known as the Culzean Country Park.
On the hunt for castles in Scotland to stay in? Well, unfortunately, you can’t stay inside the castle itself, but there is a campsite just a short stroll away. You’ll wake up to beautiful views and spend your days surrounded by lush natural beauty.
Trains to Culzean Castle
The nearest train station is Maybole station. From here, you can either take a 20-minute bus or a 10-minute taxi to reach Culzean Castle and Country Park.
Opening times
30th March to 27th October – 10:30 to 17:00
Tickets
Adults from £16.50*
*Prices accurate 2nd April 2019