Tour Scotland reports that the country “is home to more than 1,500 castles, each of which has a distinct appearance and design that symbolises the history of the nation.”
Scottish castles and Scottish clans go hand in hand as these seats of power were at the heart of ruthless battles fought between factions seeking to protect or conquer land.
Our heritage is filled with stories about these fortresses and, much like place names in Scotland, many Castle names reflect our linguistic heritage too e.g., Inveraray Castle stems from the Scottish Gaelic ‘Inbhir Aora’ meaning “mouth of the Aray”.
25. Edinburgh Castle
No list of Scottish castles could possibly be complete without mentioning the famous Edinburgh Castle. It rests on Castle Rock in the centre of Edinburgh city which is said to have been occupied by people since as far back as the Iron Age. As a royal residence, prison of war and military fortress over the years, the historic castle boasts many fascinating tales which is why thousands of tourists flock to it every year. Photo: Iann Castelein on Canva Pro