Nowhere does castles quite like Scotland. Here you can find some of the most beautiful fortresses in the world, with rich histories and breathtaking scenic backdrops.
Each of them tells its own tale of our nation, century after century – from clans to royalty, uprisings, invasions, and war. And many of them have starred in major TV shows and films – from Game of Thrones to Outlander and even James Bond.
We asked readers on our Destination ScotlandFacebook group their favourite castles in Scotland – this is what they said.
We asked readers on our Destination ScotlandFacebook group their favourite castles in Scotland – this is what they said.
9. Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle is the "fairytale home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll". Found in the west of Scotland, on the shores of Loch Fyne, this castle was originally built in 1533 and today is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture. Set in beautiful gardens, it starred in the 2012 Christmas episode of Downton Abbey as the fictional Duneagle Castle. Photo: getty Images
Set high upon in ancient volcanic plug in the River Clyde, Dumbarton Castle has the longest recorded history of any stronghold in Scotland, dating back 1,500 years. Throughout its history it was a mighty stronghold, laid siege by Vikings and a place of shelter for Mary Queen of Scots. Today there are stunning views from the White Tower Crag, sometimes as far as Ben Lomond. Photo: Getty Images
A popular filming location, Doune Castle has featured in Game of Thrones as Winterfell, in Outlander as Castle Leoch, and in various scenes in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Located in the Stirling district, this castle was built in the 13th Century. It is the home of Regent Albany, "Scotland's uncrowned king", and today is run by Historic Environment Scotland. Photo: Getty Images
Blair Castle is the ancestral home of Clan Murray and the seat of the Duke of Atholl. Found in the village of Blair Atholl in Perthshire, this striking white castle has witnessed the Cromwell invasion, Jacobite Uprising, and was visited by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Now its nine acres of gardens are popular with the public, with a woodland grove, ruined kirk, and peacocks roaming freely. Photo: Getty Images