Dunnottar Castle
The ruins of this cliff top fortress holds a bloody past. The beautiful setting was where a King of Scotland was killed, Donald II in 900 AD was killed by the invading Viking army.
In 1651, during the invasion led by Oliver Cromwell the Scottish crown Jewels were hidden in the castle for their safe keeping. The jewels survived and are now on display in Edinburgh Castle.
Eilean Donan Castle
One of Scotland’s most photographed castles, sitting on a tiny island at the meeting point of three lochs. It was blown up in 1719 during the Jacobite risings and left in ruins for nearly 200 years before being lovingly restored in the 20th century.
Glamis Castle
The childhood home of Elizabeth, The Queen Mother who lived here until she married the future King George V.
Linlithgow Palace
Built in 1424 by James I, this impressive ruin of a once majestic palace was also the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Although the palace fell into decay once James VI became James I of England in 1603, the palace makes an impressive site.
Balmoral Castle
Still a royal residence, this Scottish castle was built by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852. Today it is still enjoyed as a summer residence for the Royal family and is open to the public. Enjoy a peek into the favourite holiday home of the royal family.
Urquhart Castle
Urquhart is a medieval fortress near Inverness. It is an iconic ruin perched against the backdrop of Loch Ness. Visit the ruined castle that offers a glimpse into the lives of its noble residents and the violent and bloody history between the Scots and English wars.
Lochleven Castle
Cross the loch by boat and visit the former prison of Mary Queen of Scots. This is one of the oldest castles in Scotland, and it was here where the former Queen escaped to flee Scotland. This is an eerie yet beautiful castle to visit, with a history dating back to the 1300s.
Scone Palace
Known as the crowning place of Scottish Kings, take a step back into Scotland’s royal history with a visit to Scone.
Falkland Palace
Another Palace to make this list! But it’s such a stunning place to visit and one of our driver guide Matthews favourite places. The palace and gardens are utterly stunning and Falkland was the favourite retreat of the ill fated Mary, Queen of Scots.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh is a feast for the eyes! It’s a city filled with architectural wonder and its castle is the cherry on top. The fortress is perched overlooking the city, and is worth a visit for the views and of course its history.