Four Castles You NEED to Visit on Your Next Scotland Trip

Scottish Castles

Scotland is famous for many different things, Kilt’s, Bagpipes, Whisky, Haggis - the list goes on. However, one of the things that fascinates so many people is the history of this incredible country. From the centuries-long lines of family clans, the historic battles in both the Highlands and the Lowlands, and finally, the array of stunning castles littered across the whole of the Scotland.

I think that it can be no secret that Edinburgh castle has to be the most recognisable of all. Standing above the city, this castle stands as the centrepiece, being visible from almost all parts of the city. Also, Stirling castle is equally as impressive, being positioned again high up on a volcanic outcrop, above the city. Mary Queen of Scots is said to have lived here during the very first few years of her life.

However, I’ve always been fascinated by the castles that are positioned more in the less-accessible part of Scotland. As a outdoor photographer, who’s work has been heavily focused in Scotland over the last couple of years, I’m always trying to capture the most dramatic scenes, and these castles really add the perfect subject. All of the castles in this list posses some very unique characteristics that make them my personal favourites, and make them spots that you need to visit on your next trip to Scotland.

Eilean Donan Castle

Situated just a few miles from the Isle of Skye, Eilean Donan Castle (pictured above) is positioned at the point where three great sea-lochs meet. This is the perfect place to have a little pitstop if you are indeed making the journey up to Skye.

Eilean Donan, which means simply "island of Donnán", is named after Donnán of Eigg, a Celtic saint who was martyred in 617. Donnán is said to have established a church on the island, though no trace of this remains. A small tidal island situated at the confluence of three sea lochs in the western Highlands of Scotland, this castle is one of the most photographed in Scotland.

After many years of attempted sieges, the modern-day castle was restored in the mid-20th century to what we see today. This castle has featured in many different movies over the year, and it’s pretty obvious to see why. If you are wanting to see inside of the castle, then it is open during the day to visitors, where you can see the stunning inside of this castle. A little thing to remember if you do decide to see inside the castle - ask about the painting where the man’s foot follows you around the room - I’m sure you’ll be as confused as I was when I first saw it!

I would recommend seeing this location early in the morning, where you might be lucky enough to see the loch waters still, casting a lovely reflection of the castle. Also, if you are there out of castle opening hours, then you are permitted to fly your drone here, which can give you some stunning perspectives of this place.

Dunnottar Castle

It’s fair to say that Scotland definitely has a number of impressive castles, however there is possibly none that look as epic and yet intimidating as Dunnottar Castle (pictured above). Situated on a rocky-outcrop from the cliffs at Dunnottar, the castle looks almost impregnable. Not only that, but its 180 degree view out to sea would make it very difficult for them to not see an invasion. These features were definitely important during the most turbulent centuries in history, where the castle was indeed attacked and damaged. Furthermore, Mary Queen of Scots visited the castle in 1562 and 1564, and James VI stayed in 1580.

With such a rich history, it’s pretty easy to understand why Dunnottar Castle has indeed become so popular for visitors since it was opened to the public in the early 20th century. The castle remains are open during the day, where you can gain access to all of the remaining parts of the castle and understand the history of this place even more.

I would definitely recommend visiting this location either at sunrise or sunset if you are wanting to see the castle in some golden light, and to avoid the crowds that are present during the castle opening times.

Castle Stalker

Probably a castle which is universally known with all of those who love Scotland, Castle Stalker (pictured above) is a four-storey keep on its own island on Loch Linnhe. This small castle draws much attention due to the fact that it sits on a little island, cut off from the mainland, making people wonder how people did indeed live their in the past - how did they get supplies? Once again, this all adds to the mystery of Scottish history, and what makes people so interested to see these places.

Built sometime during the 14th century, the castle still remains in good conditions to this day. I think that even thought this spot has such a long list of historical events, my favourite has to be that in 1620, the Castle was lost in a drunken wager and became the property of the Campbells of Airds. Imagine winning this castle through a bet?!

As is with most of the castles in Scotland, Castle Stalker has featured in many different movies in the past, even in the all-time classic Braveheart. However, I think that most people would definitely recognise the castle from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, where it is referred to as ‘Castle Arghhhh’.

It’s worth noting that there is a designated car park for Castle Stalker, where you can access a great viewpoint of the castle from. Also, there is a cafe in the car park, which is a perfect place to grab a hot drink and some food if you are spending the day exploring the local area.

Keiss Castle

Lastly, possibly my favourite castle in the whole of Scotland, Keiss Castle (pictured above).  This tower stands precariously on the edge of the cliff, looking out towards the North Sea. Even though all we have left of the castle today is this tower, I believe that it makes this location even more impressive.

For anyone who hasn’t travelled along the North Coast 500, then it’s worth noting that the coastline here can indeed be very brutal. Seemingly always at the mercy of relentless wind, rain and rough seas, it means that places like Keiss Castle have indeed faced some pretty tough conditions over the years. Therefore, it must be obvious to make the assumption that this tower will soon fall into the sea below.

As we have no idea of how long that might indeed take, then it’s definitely worth adding this location to your next Scotland trip. Being able to witness a sight like this is something truly special, and a memory that you will not forget in a hurry. If you are planning on visiting, then make sure you park at Keiss Harbour and make the small walk out along the coastline.