top of page

Scottish Castles

Scotland’s most iconic castles

Scotland is a fascinating destination for lovers of history, nature and culture. With breathtaking landscapes, imposing castles and rich traditions, touring the country is an unforgettable experience.

There are thought to be more than 1,500 castles across Scotland, some in ruins and others beautifully preserved. Scottish castles are true icons of the country, each carrying centuries of history and mystery, and many are still used as homes, hotels and visitor attractions.

With our private itineraries, you make the most of your time to discover the most fascinating castles. We offer tours from a single day, as well as longer 2-, 3-, 5- and 7-day journeys into the Highlands and the other regions where Scotland’s most iconic castles are found.

Get in touch and we’ll plan your castle itinerary with you.

Visiting these castles is a journey back in time: in many of them you can explore medieval corridors, grand halls and imposing walls. The mystical atmosphere and the stories of battles and conspiracies make the experience even more absorbing, and your guide will tell you about the historical figures who lived there and the events that shaped the nation’s destiny.


Here are some of Scotland’s finest castles to inspire you.


Get in touch to find out more about our castle tours. We can create a private itinerary that includes your favourite castles, so that your experience is unique and unforgettable.


  • Edinburgh Castle – One of Scotland’s most emblematic fortresses and one of the most visited sites in the country, with incredible views over the capital. It is home to the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish Crown Jewels.

  • Eilean Donan Castle – The most photographed castle in Scotland.

  • Dunrobin Castle – Without doubt one of Scotland’s most beautiful castles: with its remarkable architecture, it looks more like a fairytale palace.

  • Balmoral Castle – Queen Victoria described Balmoral as her “dear paradise in the Highlands”. It is still the Royal Family’s private residence in Scotland.

  • Blair Castle – With its unique architecture and more than 700 years of history, it is a must on any tour of Scottish castles.

  • Inveraray Castle – One of the earliest examples of Gothic Revival architecture.

  • Glamis Castle – With its red sandstone walls, Glamis was the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

  • Stirling Castle – One of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both historically and architecturally.

  • Castle Fraser – Considered one of the grandest and most romantic castles in Scotland, it featured in the film The Queen (2006).

  • Blackness Castle – Built in the 15th century by the Crichtons, one of Scotland’s most powerful families, Blackness became even better known after appearing in Outlander.

  • Urquhart Castle – Set on the shores of the iconic Loch Ness, Urquhart is one of Scotland’s most impressive and photographed fortresses, with spectacular views of the loch.

  • Dunnottar Castle – Perched on a clifftop above the sea, Dunnottar offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in Scotland.


Still not sure which itinerary to choose to see your favo urite castles? Get in touch with our team and let us create the perfect private itinerary for you and your group.

Start planning your private tour:

bottom of page