Scotland with its long history has many great castles. Every castle is history and mythology in stone and timber. Join me as I take you through some of the most popular Scottish castles and their stories and hidden treasures.
Scotland Edinburgh Castle: Iconic Fortress
First of all, the symbol of the city is the majestic and historic Edinburgh Castle. It is located at Castle Rock and offers spectacular vistas of the capital. Archaeologists can trace it back to the Iron Age. When people visit, the first thing they encounter is the majestic entrance called the Esplanade. They can see the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny inside the castle. They employed this stone to crown Scottish kings. Edinburgh Castle has something to tell about royalty and rebellion at every nook and cranny.
Stirling Castle: A Renaissance Masterpiece
Stirling Castle sits on a rocky terrace on the left bank of the river Forth. Many kings and queens of Scotland resided in this castle. This place was the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots. More importantly, Renaissance architecture characterizes Stirling Castle. Additionally, its rich history and stunning views make it a must-visit destination. The Royal Palace museum, displays beautifully designed rooms filled with carving and taping works. Similarly, The Great Hall with its hammerbeam roof completes the majestic atmosphere of the castle.
Urquhart Castle: By the Loch Ness
Furthermore, Urquhart Castle is located near the shores of the celebrated Loch Ness. Although in the present day it remains a ruin, it was an important site in Scottish history. During the Scottish Wars of Independence the castle saw numerous battles. Tourists can also ascend the Grant Tower to have an overlooking view of Loch Ness. However, there is something mysterious about Urquhart Castle even in its state of ruins. Furthermore, Eilean Donan Castle that is located at the confluence of three lochs is also beautiful and is a castle on an island. There is a pathway for foot traffic that links the castle to the mainland. The rooms of the castle include items form the clan. Therefore, It is impossible to go to Eilean Donan and not feel as if you are entering a storybook.
Glamis Castle: The Royal Residence
In addition, there is a royal connection as the castle used to be the home of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother during her childhood. Glamis was already famous and Shakespeare only helped to cement its fame forever through his play “Macbeth”. As for the architectural styles, the castle has adopted different styles that represent the different periods in history. Moreover, The Castle has beautiful gardens and a lovely chapel for visitors to take a leisurely stroll around.
Balmoral Castle: The Royal Retreat
More importantly, Renaissance architecture characterizes Stirling Castle. Additionally, its rich history and stunning views make it a must-visit destination. Furthermore, visitors can explore its beautifully preserved rooms and gardens. In particular, the castle’s strategic location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This was first purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in the 19th century. The castle has Gothic architectural features with influences from the Scottish baronial style of architecture. Some parts of the castle and the gardens are open for visitors to tour during specific months of the year. Located in the picturesque Highlands, this castle is one of the rare places where visitors can acquaint themselves with the way the British royal family lives.
Culzean Castle: Scotland’s Clifftop Wonder
Likewise, Culzean Castle rises majestically on a clifftop as south as the Firth of Clyde is vast. The castle, which has neo-classical elegance of the Scottish architect Robert Adam, was the most well preserved. Tours are available for the public to view the architectural marvel and explore the interior designing of the castle where visitors can see the lavish oval staircase designed for the lord. Furthermore, Woodlands and a walled garden are among the grounds of the castle that makes it more breathtaking, making it a must visit place in Scotland.
Craigievar Castle: The Pink Tower House
Moreover, Craigievar Castle which more flamboyantly presents a pinkish cast is perhaps one of the best types of a Scottish tower house. This one has its exterior features constructed in the 17th century, with harled walls and corbelled turrets. Interiors are just as impressive as exteriors featuring antiques, fine arts, rich furniture, etc. The castle lies in a beautiful land of hills, and this enhances its beauty and the legend associated with it.
Inveraray Castle: The Duke’s Residence
Last but not the least, we have Inveraray Castle as the representative of Gothic Revival architecture that reflects the Duke of Argyll’s place of residence. It is situated along the shores of the Loch Fyne, and has immense historical background which makes its selling point. Among the attractions open for tourists are presented luxurious royal apartments with beautifully decorated rooms, from the dining hall to the armorial. The castle estate offers beautiful gardens, and there are trails through the forest that tourists can enjoy. I was glad to visit Inveraray Castle as a part of the Scottish nobility’s lifestyle becomes comprehensible here.
Conclusion
The Scotland castles, the beauty of each one is that they have and legends within each castle and outstanding architectural designs. Children will get to touch and explore after they have learned the stories behind these famed castles – from the famous Edinburgh Castle to the graceful Eilean Donan Castle. Visiting such castles is a great way to plunge into the atmosphere of Scottish royal history and feel the experience of the country’s past. Thus, put on your travelling shoes to take a tour of Scotland’s famous, folklore castles. The adventure awaits!