24 of the Best Castles to Visit in the UK
I love taking my children to visit castles in the UK. Unlike visiting stately homes, the kids never tire of exploring a crumbling fortress – climbing the steps of a tower, looking out from the battlements or clambering down into the dungeons. Castles are atmospheric, full of opportunities to play and to imagine.
We’re rather lucky to have so many amazing castles to visit in the UK – some well-preserved, others in ruins. As well as the famous castles – Windsor, Warwick and Edinburgh – we have plenty of hidden gems too. One of my favourite walks in Hampshire is to King John’s Castle near the village of Odiham. Dating back to the 13th century, this ruined castle is hidden away in woodland next to the River Whitewater, waiting to be discovered. There’s no fence or entry fee, just an interpretation board explaining the history of the place. It’s the perfect spot for imaginary play and we’re usually the only people there.
Although I have titled this article as “the best castles to visit in the UK”, this is a completely subjective list drawn up by me and some fellow travel bloggers. There are thousands of castles across the UK so this modest list just highlights some of our favourites. Do let me know in the comments below which UK castle holds a special place in your heart.
Table of Contents
Map of UK castles
The best castles to visit in southern England
Bodiam Castle in East Sussex
This National Trust castle on the border of East Sussex and Kent has to be one of the best castles to visit in England with kids. Bodiam Castle is surrounded by a moat and features plenty of battlements to run along, towers to climb and just enough information to really engage kids with the immense history of the place.
Our kids loved learning about murder holes and gong scourers (child toilet cleaners!) and they were rather taken by the 600 year old portcullis at the entrance to the castle.
Bodiam Castle was built by Sir Edward Dallingridge in the 14th century as his very well-fortified family home. Wars and the Black Death made for unruly peasants so a well protected home was a necessity.
The views across the surrounding countryside are glorious. The method of reaching the castle is almost as much fun as the castle itself – visitors can use the Kent and East Sussex railway and travel from Tenterden to Bodiam by steam train.
Find out more about Bodiam Castle
Read about other things to do in East Sussex
Corfe Castle in Dorset
This is another brilliant UK castle for children to enjoy. Set atop a steep hill overlooking the village of the same name, Corfe Castle is said to be the inspiration behind Enid Blyton’s Kirrin Castle from the Famous Five. The castle is in ruins and it’s great fun to clamber around the piles of stone and imagine you’re solving a Famous Five mystery. There are lots of useful information boards so if you’re more of a knights and battles kind of person, there’s plenty of inspiration to take you back in time to the Normans or the Civil War.
A fortress has stood on the hill at Corfe Castle for around a thousand years. During that time, it’s been a treasury, a garrison, a royal residence and then a family home. The castle was destroyed during the Civil War but the plucky lady of the castle – Lady Mary Bankes – ensured its survival. Corfe Castle remained in her family for several hundred years before being passed to the National Trust.
Find out more about Corfe Castle
Dartmouth Castle in Devon
Recommended by Jamie from Travel Addict
Dartmouth Castle, a stunning coastal castle, is an English Heritage property located in Devon in the south west of England. The castle offers a captivating journey through history. Visiting Dartmouth Castle in Devon should be a must see in the area, with its fantastic views and historical value.
Located at the mouth of the River Dart and the English Channel this fortress castle played a vital role in England’s naval defences dating back to 1388. It was critical in defending against the French, Spanish, and Dutch.
Over time the castle evolved and was influenced by key figures, such as Henry VII, becoming a symbol of maritime heritage in Dartmouth.
Visitors can delve into its rich history, from the medieval origins to the powerful gun towers of the 19th century, while enjoying panoramic river mouth views from the ancient gun tower’s roof. Both gun towers offer a glimpse into the history of the castle and cannons, with great interactive displays.
This English Heritage site has a tearoom with a proper Devon cream tea, and a variety of other foods. As well it has a shop, toilets and a picnic area.
Tip: Dartmouth Castle is accessible on foot, by car or by ferry. The ferry journey offers the most beautiful views of the castle and entrance from the water.
Find out more about Dartmouth Castle
Dover Castle, in Kent
Recommended by Ann from The Road Is Life
Dover Castle is one of the UK’s most iconic fortresses that has stood the test of time, protecting the shores of England for over 800 years. The present castle has been incredibly well-preserved, dating back to the 11th century with many of its original features still intact.
One of the top highlights of visiting Dover Castle is exploring the Great Tower where you’ll be transported back in time to King Henry II’s royal court. The Great Tower features colourful recreated rooms furnished with medieval furniture, decorations and even costumed characters that bring the castle to life.
Make your way to the top of the Great Tower for a panoramic view across the English Channel and surrounding countryside. Descend into the medieval tunnels to see a collection of canons that helped defend the castle during sieges. Don’t miss a visit to the underground hospital that was used to treat injured soldiers during WWII.
Dover Castle is an English Heritage property that has many facilities for visitors such as a restaurant, tearooms, a cafe and toilets. Before visiting, be sure to check the events and activities that take place at the castle throughout the year. You might be able to catch a jousting tournament, siege re-enactment or another seasonal event.
Taking a day trip to Dover from London is a great way to visit the castle and see the White Cliffs of Dover on the same day. You can easily get there by taking the high speed train in one hour from London’s St Pancras Station.
Find out more about Dover Castle
Dunster Castle in Somerset
Recommended by Justine from Wanderers of the World
Found atop a wooded hill with panoramic views across the surrounding estate and towards the Bristol Channel, Dunster Castle in Somerset is one of my favourite castles in the UK.
While there was originally a castle here as early as the Middle Ages (built shortly after the infamous Battle of Hastings in 1066), the castle you see today is – for the most part – more recent.
Only the lower-level gateway and oak doors from the original castle remain. The rest of the architecture dates back to the 1600s, 1700s and 1800s as various aristocrats rebuilt parts of the castle and added more features.
Abundant history aside, the panoramic views and riverside walk through the estate make Dunster Castle most worth visiting. Not to mention you can enjoy some of these incredible views while wandering through the castle’s stunning gardens.
In the spring and summer months, the National Trust, which has looked after Dunster Castle since 1976, often hosts archery and lawn games in the castle’s grounds. These are popular with both children and adults alike!
As for facilities, there are two cafes on-site to choose from (one of which is housed within Dunster’s historic watermill), while there are a handful of toilets dotted around the estate. You can also browse the shops in the 17th-century stables for used books, local produce and artisanal gifts and homewares.
Find out more about Dunster Castle
Hever Castle, in Kent
Recommended by Joanna from the World in My Pocket
Hever Castle, located in Kent, is one of the best castles in southern England. It features a moat, a gatehouse, and a walled bailey. It was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, before she served at the French Queen’s court after being sent to France. The castle is recognized as a significant example of Tudor architecture in England, with the oldest section being the wooden beams in Henry VIII’s bedchamber, dating back to the castle’s 13th-century construction.
Visiting Hever Castle is like a step into history. While some ground floor rooms have undergone renovations by previous owners, the upstairs sections retain their original character. Of particular interest is the dining hall, where you can see the original lock that Henry VIII used to secure his bedchamber every night, a precaution driven by his fears about a potential assasination.
Hever Castle is also home to a large collection of Tudor portraits, including depictions of all five of Henry VIII’s wives. The castle’s gardens feature mazes, flower gardens, Italian-inspired landscaping, and a lake for paddling.
You will need an entire day to explore the grounds, and you may not see everything. You must purchase a ticket in order to access the grounds of the castle. To see the castle itself, you will need to pay an extra fee. You can do this either online, or directly at the door.
Hever Castle is privately owned and has a hotel attached to it. You can book a room in the newest part of the castle, and you will have overnight access to the grounds, after everyone has left.
Find out more about Hever Castle
Odiham Castle, in Hampshire
This ruined 13th century former home of King John is hidden away in woodland between the River Whitewater and the Basingstoke Canal. Many people do not even realise the castle is there – there is very little indication that the castle is there.
Odiham Castle was built for King John between 1207 and 2014. Although it was the scene of an attack by French invaders, it is believed that its ruined state is actually due to its decline in fortunes. The castle was a strategic location during the signing of Magna Carta – midway between Winchester and Windsor. However, it later became a hunting lodge and finally fell into neglect so it’s current state is likely due to masonry being taken away for building projects elsewhere.
The castle is now a wonderful place for a family outing – our kids have always enjoyed playing in the ruins and it’s a great destination to incorporate into a walk next to the canal or river.
Tintagel Castle, in Cornwall
Recommended by Claire from Go South West England
There’s nowhere quite as foreboding and alluring as Tintagel Castle in Cornwall.
Sitting on the Duchy’s northern coastline, Tintagel Castle is a ruinous fortification with around 1,500 years of history.
Tintagel was once the seat of Medieval kings, and a castle was built by Richard, Earl of Cornwall in the 13th Century.
It’s rumoured that King Arthur was born at the castle – although this is almost certainly not true (Geoffrey of Monmouth spread this rumour in the 12th century!). However, it was certainly a place for Cornish royalty and acted as a trading post – with artefacts being found here from as far away as the Mediterranean.
These days, it’s an English Heritage property, and if you’ve been thinking of becoming a member it’s well worth doing so before visiting Tintagel – it’s one of their more expensive properties.
There’s a gift shop and cafe (which does one of Cornwall’s best cream teas – jam on first remember!) on-site, and you can access the beach (home to Merlin’s Cave) without visiting the castle and paying its entrance fee.
The gift shop, cafe and beach sit right at the end of a steep slope – entrance to the castle is around halfway down the slope. If you don’t want to walk, a jeep connects the castle with the main entrance and cafe/ gift shop.
Find out more about Tintagel Castle
Castles in the Midlands
Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire
Recommended by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!
If you are looking for the best castles to visit in the UK then Berkeley Castle is not to be missed. Built in the 12th Century Berkeley Castle is a Grade I listed building and is the only building in England to still be inhabited by the family that built it!
One of the finest castles in the Cotswolds, Berkeley Castle has a long history but none of it is more intriguing than the imprisonment and demise of King Edward II, whose murder in the castle dungeon was most unconventional.
One of the distinguishing features of Berkeley Castle is the strategic design of its keep. Unlike most castles where the keep is on top of an elevation, here it encircles the mound or motte. This design made it stronger during the ravages of the English Civil War, when it was besieged and the keep remained intact with only a small breach in its walls, still visible to visitors today.
Visitors on a day trip to Berkeley Castle can enjoy food and drink in The Pantry which serves hot and cold drinks, cakes and light lunches. There is also plenty of seating around the castle grounds including picnic benches where visitors can bring their own food.
There are toilets including disabled access and baby changing facilities and there is a playground for children to enjoy.
Find out more about Berkeley Castle
Lincoln Castle
Recommended by Alex from Lincoln and Beyond
After William the Conqueror successfully invaded England at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, he commissioned a series of strongholds to be built in strategic locations to consolidate his position. Among them was Lincoln Castle, which stands today as one of the best-preserved castles of the era.
Lincoln Castle has three features that make it stand out as a visitor experience like no other. Firstly, one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta is displayed inside a vault beneath the castle grounds. In addition to seeing the legendary document, which provided the basis for modern English law, you can also watch a short film about its history on a cinema screen inside the vault.
Secondly, the grounds also feature Lincoln’s infamous Victorian Prison, which has been repurposed as a museum. You can explore inmates’ cells preserved in original living conditions, and learn about the “separate system”, a harsh regime of confinement that was implemented during the 19th century.
Finally, and most spectacularly, it is possible to traverse around the entire perimeter of the castle on the “Medieval Wall Walk”. The curtain wall remains fully intact, and from the top you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the countryside beyond. The full circuit stretches around half a kilometre.
A day ticket to the castle includes entry to the Magna Carta, Victorian Prison and Medieval Wall Walk. Alternatively, the inner grounds are free to enter and explore, and make a great spot for a summer picnic.
Castles in the North of England
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland
Recommended by Maja from Away with Maja
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is one of the most magnificent castles in the UK. It was built in the 11th century, and is still the seat of the Duke of Northumberland – the 12th Duke and his family still live in part of the castle today. After Windsor Castle, it’s the second-largest inhabited castle in the country. Perched on the side of a hill overlooking the River Aln, it makes for an impressive landmark in the town of Alnwick.
There are so many different parts of the castle to discover on a visit – from the State Rooms and Artisans Courtyard to the various museums tucked away in different parts of the historic castle, there’s something for adults and kids alike. Alnwick Castle has played host to a number of film crews over the years; it was featured in two of the Harry Potter films as a stand-in for Hogwarts Castle, as well as Downtown Abbey.
Harry Potter fans will be delighted that they can take part in Broomstick Training on the castle grounds, outside the keep, at regular intervals throughout the day. Visit the Courtyard Café for a bite to eat – this is also where the main toilet facilities are located. Note that the castle is open seasonally, and closes during the winter months. Check the official castle website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Find out more about Alnwick Castle
Richmond Castle in Yorkshire
Recommended by Tom from Tom Henty’s Travel
Richmond Castle is an English Heritage castle which dates back nearly one thousand years to 1070, when it was first constructed by Alan Rufus to defend his estates against Anglo-Saxon Nobles. The castle has stood the test of time beautifully to show modern day visitors a glimpse back into the rich history surrounding the landmark.
Much of the castle is well preserved considering its age, and in areas where it is damaged, the recent curation of the premises makes it an interesting activity to wander around gaining insights into living conditions of yesteryear.
A prominent feature of the castle is the tower which perches high over the North Yorkshire town as a symbol of its proud inhabitants. You can climb to the top of the tower via 129 steps, the rewarding views make it worthwhile. You can claim a fabulous bird’s eye view of the historic marketplace, River Swale, surrounding countryside and the grass amphitheatre on the castle grounds which commands the local area. A summer visit to the castle ensures you can make the most of the beautiful gardens with your families and pets. The grassy amphitheatre is home to parties, picnics and sports most weekends throughout the summer.
There are information boards dotted around the English Heritage site to help you understand the different areas of the castle, along with a gift shop selling souvenirs and refreshments. In warmer weather, they also sell local organic ice cream.
Find out more about Richmond Castle
Looking for somewhere to stay near Richmond? Read our review of Dale2Swale glamping
Skipton Castle in Yorkshire
Recommended by Francesca from Little Lost Travel
Sitting within the pretty town of Skipton in North Yorkshire is one of the most complete and best-preserved medieval castles in England. Skipton Castle was built by the Norman baron Robert de Romille in 1090 as a wooden fortress. It did little to stop raiding Scots so he replaced it with a stronger, more fortified castle made from stone.
In 1310, it was given to Robert Clifford by King Edward II. It later withstood a three-year siege as the last royalist stronghold in the north during the English Civil War – finally yielding to Oliver Cromwell in 1645.
Today, you can visit the castle but one part remains inhabited by the Fattorini family. As you approach the entrance, you’ll first notice the thick, impregnable towers of the gatehouse. Step through and the majesty of the castle is revealed. There is a chapel and stable as well as a team room and toilets while the main living quarters sprawl along the top of a slope.
Its most impressive feature is the early Tudor courtyard, Conduit Court, with a 500-year-old yew tree growing in its centre. Surrounding the courtyard are chambers including a medieval banqueting hall, kitchens and a privy.
The back of the castle overlooks a sheer drop with woods behind. In medieval times, it would have been surrounded by a moat, but now just the Eller Beck River runs alongside it.
Find out more about Skipton Castle
Best castles in Wales
Beaumaris Castle in Anglesey
This unfinished masterpiece – built by Edward I of England but abandoned before it was completed – overlooks the Menai Straits on the island of Anglesey in north Wales. Beaumaris was set to be the pinnacle of Edward’s castle building in Wales, following on from Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech but he ran short of money in the 1320s and moved his attentions to new adventures – namely conquering Scotland.
Visitors to Beaumaris today might not realise that the castle was left unfinished – it’s an impressive sight to behold. Beyond the moat, there is an outer defensive wall, twelve towers and two gatehouses. It’s a brilliant place to visit with children – lots of space to run around and a model of the castle made of foam which kids can construct and destroy over and over again.
Find out more about Beaumaris Castle
Conwy Castle in North Wales
Recommended by Paulina from the UK Every Day
One of the most stunning castles to visit in the United Kingdom is Conwy Castle in Wales. Situated in the beautiful town of Conwy, this medieval fortress is a true architectural marvel. Built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the 13th century, it showcases impressive defensive features, including eight massive towers and a huge town wall that surrounds the castle.
Visitors can walk along the high walls for free, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the majestic River Conwy. To explore the castle’s rooms inside or admire the views from one of the towers you will need to buy an admission ticket. It is highly recommended to purchase it online due to the high number of tourists visiting Conwy Castle each year.
There is a set of restrooms in Conwy Castle that are reachable by stairs on the lower floor. Additionally, on the ground floor, you will also find baby changing facilities and accessible toilets. Moreover, Conwy Castle cafe is dog friendly, although dogs are not allowed inside the castle.
This World Heritage Site impresses not only with architecture but also the history behind the castle. It was the most expensive castle ever built in this part of the UK where Edward I stayed only one night in 1294.
Find out more about Conwy Castle
Gwrych Castle, North Wales
Recommended by Helen from Helen on her Holidays
Gwrych Castle is a ruined early 19th century country estate near Abergele in North Wales, built by aristocrat Lloyd Hesketh Bamford-Hesketh on the site of his family’s Elizabethan ancestral home. Bamford-Hesketh was fascinated by Mediaeval architecture, and modelled his new castle in the romantic Gothic style, complete with turrets and battlements.
The castle first became a tourist attraction in 1948, but closed in the late 1980s. It fell into disrepair, stripped of its interiors and its roof. The Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust managed to buy it, and its future now looks much brighter.
Gwrych Castle became famous in 2020 as the location for the TV show I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, which sees celebrities endure harsh living conditions and disgusting trials. During the pandemic, the show, which is normally filmed in Australia, had to find somewhere suitable in the UK. Gwrych fitted the bill of being a grim place for the celebs to live; you can still see props from the show if you visit.
If you visit Gwrych Castle, it’s important to remember that it is a true ruin. The Trust are working to make it safe and preserve the building, but it’s going to be a slow process. Entry is by pre-booked time slots, and since there’s no power or running water on site, facilities are a bit limited. There are temporary toilets, a small shop and there may be one or two food trucks on site, especially if you visit at the weekend.
Find out more about Gwrych Castle
Ogmore Castle, South Wales
Recommended by Lowri from Many Other Roads
Ogmore Castle in Bridgend, South Wales is a hidden gem in the world of castles, and honestly, it’s one of the best ones to visit in the UK!
Ogmore Castle dates back to the early 12th century, and it’s got all the history you’d expect from a medieval fortress. The location is also stunning. It’s nestled in the lush, green countryside right by the River Ogmore. It is also fun to visit because of the historic stepping stones you can jump across to reach the other side of the river.
But what sets Ogmore Castle apart is its laid-back, almost casual atmosphere. It’s not as touristy as some of the other big-name castles in the UK. You won’t find hordes of tourists here, which means you can explore at your own pace without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s the kind of place where you can take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, have a picnic, and just soak up the serene beauty of the surroundings. And it is also completely free to visit!
And let’s not forget the nearby attractions which are handy as there are no facilities at the castle. You’ve got the gorgeous Welsh coastline just a stone’s throw away, and the charming villages in the area are perfect for a post-castle exploration.
Find out more about Ogmore Castle
Pembroke Castle, West Wales
Recommended by Kieren from Wales Guidebook
Pembroke Castle is one of the most impressive castles in West Wales. The current stone structure was built during the 12th century by William Marshal, an influential knight from the medieval period who is an icon of Pembroke.
But the castle is most famous as the birthplace of Henry Tudor, who went on to become King Henry VII, the first monarch of the Tudor dynasty and the only ever Welshman to take the English throne.
Pembroke Castle is remarkably well-preserved with intact stone walls, an impressive keep, and the Wogan Cavern (a prehistoric cave beneath the castle that would have functioned like a cold store).
There is a vast range of activities at Pembroke Castle so you can spend several hours there. This includes guided tours, a museum about the castle’s history that spans several floors, and family-friendly shows and entertainment including medieval re-enactments and falconry displays.
Inside the castle, there’s both a café and a restaurant, as well as the huge outer keep with a giant map of Wales on the floor – a perfect place for the kids to play while you enjoy some downtime.
The castle is privately owned by the Pembroke Castle Trust, so unfortunately, your CADW, English Heritage, or National Trust memberships aren’t valid.
Another great way to experience the castle is from the lake beneath it. You can hire a boat from the old boat house and paddle around the lake between April and October. You don’t need to have a castle admission ticket to do this.
Find out more about Pembroke Castle
Best castles in Northern Ireland
Dunluce Castle, Antrim Coast
We visited Dunluce Castle on a particularly wet and wild day. The castle sits on top of the cliffs on the Antrim coast with brilliant views over the sea below. It was so windy when we visited that it felt like the ruins and us visitors might all be swept into the sea – indeed, some of the castle was taken by the waves back in the 18th century.
Dunluce Castle was built by the MacQuillan family in the 16th century. It changed hands over the years with various clans staking claim to it. We had the castle to ourselves during our visit – the kids loved exploring the ruined rooms and climbing the tower – it’s a very atmospheric place. We played hide and seek and imagined the ghosts that might haunt the castle.
Find out more about Dunluce Castle
Read my article about things to do in Northern Ireland with kids
Best Castles in Scotland
Caerlaverock, South West Scotland
Recommended by Suzanne from Meandering Wild
Caerlaverock Castle, is situated in Dumfries and Galloway in the far southwest of Scotland. It is about 15 minutes drive from the centre of Dumfries along narrow country lanes. The castle looks out over the Solway Firth and was initially a Roman Fort built on the remains of an Iron Age Hill Fort. The current castle was originally built in the 13th century and has witnessed centuries of Scottish history, serving as a stronghold for various noble families including the Maxwell clan. The castle has been under siege twice. The final siege was against Charles I which saw the destruction of the castle.
Caerlaverock has a unique triangular design surrounded by a moat. The castle’s three sides form an imposing defensive structure with the outer walls forming a protective double layer. Each corner has a tower which acted as a lookout. It is possible to visit the remains of the castle including the impressive gatehouse and the ornate great hall. The red sandstone still has the remains of the ornate carvings over the doorways and the huge fireplaces.
The castle has a small tearoom and an interactive visitors centre which tells the story of the castle. There is lots of parking within the grounds of the castle and space for kids to explore the surrounding meadows. Close to the castle is Caerlaverock Nature Reserve that is good for birdwatching and a longer day at the castle.
Find out more about Caerlaverock Castle
Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye
Recommended by Erin from the Simple Salty Life
Dunvegan Castle is an impressive architectural piece of history that dates back to the 13th century. A long-standing residence of the MacLeod Clan, Dunvegan Estate is the only Scottish Highland fortress that has been continuously occupied by the same family for over 800 years. This 42,000-acre estate is on the Isle of Skye off Scotland’s western coast and is considered to be one of the greatest castles in this area.
Open daily from April to October, a visit to Dunvegan Castle promises a journey into the heart of Scotland’s clan history. When you first arrive be sure to explore the castle grounds and beautifully manicured gardens surrounding the estate. Over five acres of award-winning woodland trails, lily ponds with bridges, exotic plants, and marble statues dazzle the senses.
Once you enter the castle don’t miss visiting the Great Hall, a grand space adorned with ornate tapestries and looming MacLeod ancestral portraits.
Next, climb the castle towers for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Loch Dunvegan and the stunning Isle of Skye. Departing from a dock behind the castle, visitors can also enjoy a boat trip to Seal Island where seals bask on huge rocks and play in the loch.
Stop in the Cuillin Coffee Co. for a hot cup of coffee or enjoy a Highland meal at MacLeod Tables Café, both located on the estate property. Before leaving, browse the castle’s gift shop for unique souvenirs including items related to the MacLeod clan, Scottish history, and local crafts.
Find out more about Dunvegan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle, Western Highlands
Recommended by Alison of Everything Arisaig
The iconic castle of Eilean Donan sits strategically where three sea lochs meet. Built in the 13th century, the fortification formed part of the defence of the Mackenzies of Kintail against the Vikings, who controlled much of northwest Scotland then.
Spanish soldiers later occupied it in the 18th century during the Jacobite uprising. Sadly, it was blown up by the English army after they overcame the Spanish supporters. However, a senior member of Clan Macrae bought Eilean Donan in the early 20th century and rebuilt it. The island has been managed by the Conchra Charitable Trust since 1983.
Eilean Donan is fun to visit as a famous film location. It has featured in over 20 films, some of the best-known being Highlander and The World is Not Enough. This alone attracts many visitors. Its historical significance and natural beauty make it an ideal location for many genres.
A bridge takes you across to the island and you can go inside the castle for a fee. Many visitors just go to see the castle from outside and take scenic photos. In fact, it’s the most photographed castle in Scotland. It’s also a popular wedding venue so don’t be surprised if you see a bridal party.
A large visitor centre on the mainland has toilets, a cafe with good food and a gift shop. A lovely cottage and some apartments are available for rent.
Eilean Donan Castle’s unique location, rich history and serene beauty make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this region.
Find out more about Eilean Donan Castle
Stirling Castle
Recommended by Angie Kunze from We’re Not in Kansas Anymore
Stirling Castle is located on a volcanic crag overlooking the town of Stirling. Although much of the 12th century castle has been rebuilt, it still has a great ancient feel to it and gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like many centuries ago in a Scottish castle.
The present buildings were built between 1490 and 1600. Stirling Castle has served as both a fortress and royal residence. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned at Stirling, her childhood home, in 1542. A visit to Stirling Castle is a refreshing escape from the crowds at Edinburgh Castle. Some of the highlights of the castle include the Royal Chapel, The Great Hall, and other meticulously restored rooms.
Personal favourites are the Great Kitchen exhibit and exploring the stone recesses of the castle. Visitors can take a guided tour and take advantage of services and amenities like a gift shop, café and toilets. After exploring the interior, guests are welcome to walk the ramparts and enjoy the panoramic views from atop the crag. For a good meal and some old-world charm consider dining at the historic 1787 Portcullis pub located just down the hill from the castle.
Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness
Recommended by Larch of the Silver Nomad
Urquhart Castle stands on the shores of Loch Ness, near Drumnadrochit in the Scottish Highlands. Urquhart Castle has played its part in key events in more than 1,000 years of Scottish history.
Although there has been fortifications on the site since the 7th century, the current castle building date from around the 13th to the 16th centuries.
During the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century, ownership of the castle was fought over by the Scottish and the English. The castle passed between the two before Robert the Bruce finally took the castle along with Inverloch and Inverness. The castle then became a royal castle.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, the castle was once again fought over, but this time between the Scottish Clans of Grant and MacDonald Earls of Ross. The castle was abandoned in the middle of the 17th century and the gatehouse was blown up in 1692 to prevent the Jacobite forces using it.
Although now a ruin, Urquhart Castle still has much to see. You can explore the five-storey Grant Tower with views down the loch and the remains of the gatehouse in the lower Nether Bailey.
Now run by Historic Environment Scotland, Urquhart Castle is one of the most visited of Scotland’s castles. The visitor centre has displays of history of the castles, replicas of medieval relics as well as ample parking, a picnic area, toilets, and a café.
Find out more about Urquhart Castle
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Do you have a favourite castle to explore in the UK? Let me know in the comments below.
