I don’t know if you’ve ever watched a 2012 film called BRAVE. Still, after I watched it, it turned the usual Pixar animation style upside down by incorporating the Scottish highland scenery and various castles into the film’s scenes. The semi-imaginary Scottish scenery is brought to the extreme in the movie. Ancient and mysterious, magnificent and unique. However, Scotland has so many castles, and each one is so impressive that it’s impossible to visit them all without sifting through them. So, we’ve come up with 10 of the best castles to visit, and we hope they’ll be helpful to your students. Please take advantage of the holiday, let us follow the footprints of BRAVE, and go to Scotland to see castles together!
Caerlaverock Castle
Caerlaverock Castle is located where Scotland and England meet. When viewed from the sky, it is a triangular-shaped castle built in the 13th century. The castle was the home of the Maxwell family until it was abandoned in the 17th century. The castle also witnessed the territorial disputes between England and Scotland. Although the interior of the castle was destroyed, its grandeur can still be seen in its well-maintained details, such as the stonework, windows, and fireplaces.
Address: Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway, DG1 4RU
Edinburgh Castle
The most familiar castle is located in the centre of Edinburgh. Standing on an extinct volcano in the city’s centre, Edinburgh Castle dates back to the 6th century and has served as a royal residence, military fortress and prison. It is a testament to Scotland’s history and is listed as a World Heritage Site. From the top, you can overlook the whole of Edinburgh. It is a royal fortress, substantial royal residence, and national administrative centre. The annual Edinburgh Military Drill is also held in front of the castle.
Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH1 2NG
Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is situated on a 77-metre-high cliff in Stirling, north of Edinburgh. The castle was once the palace of the kings of Scotland. Inside, there is a saying that whoever masters Stirling wins the country (the “country” being Scotland). Now, the castle has been converted into the Legion Museum. It has also become better known since the release of Braveheart, starring Mel Gibson. It overlooks two of Scotland’s most historic battlefields, Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn.
Address: Castle Esplanade, Stirling FK8 1EJ
Aberdour Castle
Aberdour is located on the southern coastline of Scotland and has been labelled the ‘best seaside resort’. The 13th-century castle, Aberdour Castle, is set in beautiful gardens and is the oldest surviving castle in Scotland.
Address: Aberdour, Fife KY3 0SL
Glamis Castle
Glamis Castle, which commands a beautiful view of the Angus Glens, is not far from Dundee. The castle’s close association with the past makes Glamis a must-visit destination for many visitors.
Address: Dundee Rd, Glamis, Forfar, Angus DD8 1RJ
Craigievar Castle
Craigievar Castle, not far from Aberdeen, has a fairytale atmosphere. The 17th-century tower house is typical of Scottish Baronial architecture.
Address: Alford Aberdeen & Grampian AB33 8JF
Fyvie Castle
Also in Aberdeenshire, Fyvie Castle is situated in the hamlet of the same name. The castle, first built in the 13th century, is 800 years old, and as well as the many treasures on display in the castle, the ornate staircase is an eye-catching point.
Address: Fyvie, Turriff, Ellon, Aberdeenshire AB53 8JS
Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle near Inverness is widely known for Shakespeare’s masterpiece Macbeth, and the beautiful gardens, which are over 300 years old, are one of the reasons why it is so attractive to visit. It is said to be the most beautiful old castle in the Scottish Highlands.
Address: Cawdor Castle Nairn, IV12 5RD
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle Eilean Donan Castle is the twelfth of the 15 most spectacular castles in the world and one of the ten most beautiful castles in Scotland, which is a testament to its magnificence. It is surrounded by a lake, which adds to its beauty. The picturesque scenery will be unforgettable for anyone who happens upon a bagpiper playing the bagpipes in front of the castle. Eilean” means “island” in Gaelic, and “Donan” is the family name.
Address: Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, Kyle of Lolalsh, Scotland IV 40 8DX
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle Inveraray Castle is located in the small town of Argyll in the west of Scotland. It has a mid-18th century neo-Gothic style of architecture, making it look fairytale-like from the outside. The 16 acres of gardens surrounding the castle are a great place to relax and unwind while strolling around the castle.
Address: Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8XE
FAQ
What makes a castle one of the best?
A castle’s history, architecture, location, and cultural significance all make it one of the best. The Top 10 Best Castles in Scotland were selected based on these factors and their popularity among tourists and locals.
What is the most photogenic castle in Scotland?
The most photogenic castle in Scotland, as widely recognized by several sources, is the Eilean Donan Castle. It’s often called Scotland’s most photographed castle and has featured in numerous documentaries and Hollywood films.
Is there any additional information I should know before visiting these castles?
It’s always advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting castles, as some areas may have uneven or steep terrain. Also, check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as most of these castles are located in scenic yet exposed locations.
