Four atmospheric Scottish castles to visit during winter
30th November 2018
Winter is the perfect time to explore Scotland’s iconic castles. We’ve chosen four atmospheric Scottish fortresses that will conjure up visions of knights in shining armour.
Dunnottar Castle
A ruined medieval castle which stands on a rocky promontory on Scotland’s north east coast. Many of Scotland’s most famous historical figures have visited this castle over the centuries, including William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots and King Charles II.
Image: Rob Powell
Edinburgh Castle
This castle in Edinburgh doesn’t need much of an introduction. It is one of Scotland’s most famous buildings, built on an extinct volcano and dominating the city skyline.
It’s worth a visit not only for its pivotal role in Scottish history, but also for the spectacular views from its battlements.
Image: mapsofworld
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan is one of Scotland’s most photographed castles and known across the world as a symbol of Scotland. There has been a castle on the site of the current building for at least 1400 years and four different versions of the castle have been built since the thirteenth century. The castle is situated on a very small island surrounded by lochs lined with leafy munros. Accessible only by an old stone footbridge, it’s easy to see why the castle is considered such a special place.
Image: Gary Waidson
Stirling Castle
One of Scotland’s most historically important and complete castles, Stirling Castle has been a fortress for at least nine centuries and was once a favoured residence of the Stewart monarchs. The palace has recently been refurbished to show what life would have been like here in the time of King James V.
Image: David Robertson / Alamy