Scottish Castles and Clans: 17 Famous Castles and the Clans that occupied them
Scottish castles remind us of Scotland’s rich history, when these majestic settlements were at the heart of ruthless battles being fought by clans seeking to protect their land from invaders or conquer others.
Scotland has thousands of castles and strongholds (or ‘Clan seats of power’) that act as striking reminders of our country’s Clan history and how powerful it was in shaping the Scotland we live in even today.
Estimates show that Scotland has around 500 clans and historically they all had their own territories and castles and some like Clan Campbell, historically one of the most powerful Highland clans, had multiple settlements that can still be accessed today.
In appreciation of Scottish heritage and our country’s dark history, here are 17 famous castles in Scotland, the clans that historically occupied them and where they can be found.
In appreciation of Scottish heritage and our country’s dark history, here are 17 famous castles in Scotland, the clans that historically occupied them and where they can be found.
9. Clan Mackenzie - Eilean Donan
This castle is considered one of the most beautiful Scottish settlements of its kind and it has even inspired sets in Disney movies. It sits at the meeting point between three great lochs and it is surrounded by forests and mountains, located by the village of Dornie that is on the route to the Isle of Skye. Photo: Juergen Schonnop via Canva Pro
Doune Castle is famous in the modern era for having featured in popular TV shows and films like Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Outlander and Game of Thrones. In history it is well-known for being the place where the Clan MacNab chief was held captive after the Battle of Prestonpans (18th century). It can be found in the village of Doune nearby Stirling city. Photo: theasis via Canva Pro
Clan Macmillan is one of the oldest Scottish clans and Castle Sween was occupied by them back in the late 15th century. However, it has been nominated as a candidate for the 'oldest stone castle in Scotland' as it may have been built prior to 1100AD in Knapdale (Highlands). Photo: theasis via Canva Pro
The Castle of Mey is the most northerly castle in mainland Scotland that has a rich history, with royal roots, dating back to 1572. It is located in Caithness (north coast of Scotland) roughly 6 miles away from the famous John o' Groats. Photo: Stefan Serena via Flickr