Scotland Accommodation
Caerlaverock Castle, Dumfries & Galloway
Scone Palace near Perth, the Crowning Place of Scottish Kings
Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven, North East
Balmoral Castle, Royal Deeside, North East
Glamis Castle, Angus, North East
Edinburgh Castle
Dumbarton Castle, North of Glasgow
Imveraray Castle, Argyll
Castle Stalker, Appin on the west coast of Scotland
Eilean Donan Castle near Kyle of Lochalsh
Scottish Castles Tourist Information Visitor Centres
Castles are part and parcel of the Scottish landscape not to mention Scottish history. Many have been the ancestral homes of Highland clans for hundreds of years and continue to be to this day. Others are a remnant of the feuding past where the various powerhouses tried to take Scotland into their empires.
Featured Scotland Accommodation
Glenfern Guest House - Balloch
A good quality guest house in Balloch, at the head of Loch Lomond. Elegant en-suite guest rooms, delicious breakfasts and magnificent surroundings.
£25 to £35 Per Person B&B
Scone Palace - The Crowning Place of Scottish Kings
Just to the north of Perth, Scone Palace is usually crowded with visitors. Crowning place of kings, the 'Kings of Scotland' exhibition within Scone Palace explores the history of Scone as a site for the Crowning Place of Scottish Kings. Queen Victoria's boudoir with bed that she slept in also draws interest!
The extensive collection of 17th and 18th century ivories in the State Dining Room at Scone is considered by many as a highlight. There's a lot of it, and the effect is somehow rather haunting.
More of a highlight perhaps is the painting by David Wilkie - 'The Village Politicians' which is hung in the Inner Hall. Scone has been in the hands of the Murray family for 400 years and they currently hold the Earl of Mansfield title.
Scone Palace, Perth, Scotland, PH2 6BD. Tel. 01738 552300. (see Scone Palace website right for more detail on its history, and on contemporary music and entertainment events now held here regularly.
Stirling Castle & Argyll's Lodging, Stirling
Alongside Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle couldn't have been more strategically placed. High up above Stirling, the panoramic views from Stirling Castle stretch for miles incorporating near sites like the Wallace Monument, Stirling town and the peaks beyond.
On a clear day famous battle sites such as Bannockburn and Stirling Bridge the location of William Wallace's famous victory over the English in 1297.
An important castle within Scottish history, Stirling contains many a story of political scandal, killings, imprisonment and the mark of many a king. Architectural tweekings include those added by James IV, V and VI such as the Great Hall, Chapel Royal and the Gatehouse. Also within the castle are medieval kitchens and the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum. Head to the Queen Anne casemates for an exhibition on the Stewart monarchy. The palace lodgings archaeological site at Stirling Castle is also open to visitors. For more details on both Stirling Castle and Argyll's Lodging see the Historic Scotland weblink right.
A cafe is on-site at Stirling Castle and some parking is available. Stirling Castle, Stirling. Tel. 01786 45 00 00. Argyll's Lodging, Stirling. Tel. 01786 431319.
Blair Castle & Activities on the Blair Atholl Estate (Pony Trekking)
Shining white Blair Castle has a stunning setting, with its Highland Perthshire backdrop. Close to the Grampian Mountains on the way to Inverness, the castle was strategically well placed. The gardens here are a particular attraction, with trees in Diana's Grove dating from 1737 and the Hercules Garden dating from the mid 18th century. The ancient ruins of St Bride's Kirk sit within the grounds.
Move inside the castle to see displays of arms, armout, furniture, porcelain, and family memorabilia pertaining to the Atholls. Europe's only remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders lay on a full parade every May, duly inspected by the Duke of Atholl. Queen Victoria was rather impressed with them on her visit here to Blair in 1844 and granted them the right to bear arms. Weapon displays in the dramatic Entrance Hall include some used in the Battle of Culloden.
Pony trekking around the extensive grounds of the Blair Atholl estate is very popular. Book online via the Blair Castle website. See the website for details and times. You can roam the estate to your hearts content, for fishing, shooting and other pursuits if you stay at one of the enormous luxury lodges here which sleep upto 18 people. A caravan park is also on-site.
Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire PH18 5TL. Tel. 01796 481207. Checkout the Blair Castle website right for events, detail and opening times.
Castle Menzies & the Clan Menzies, Aberfeldy
Most will have heard of the magnificent 16th century Perthshire Castle Menzies. Having undergone considerable restoration in recent years, this historic seat of the Clan Menzies for over 400 years is an important site pertaining particularly to the Jacobites. Bonnie Prince Charlie rested here at Castle Menzies on his way to Culloden.
Half fortress, half mansion house. Castle Menzies sits just north of the River Tay at Weem adjacent to the stunning Weem Wood. (one and a half miles from Aberfeldy on the B846).
Castle Menzies changed hands during the Jacobite rebellions of 1715 and 1745. Visit the nearby old Kirk at Weem which contains the menzies Mausoleum as well as gardens on-site.
Castle Menzies & the Clan Menzies, Weem, Aberfeldy, Perthshire PH15 2JD. Scotland. Tel. 01887 820 982. (see Castle Menzies website right for opening times and a comprehensive history).
Tarbert Castle Kintyre
The ruins of Robert the Bruce's castle is one of Tarbert's landmarks to the south.
The walk up to Tarbert Castle from Harbour Street is a popular one and worth it for the views alone. The ruins date from the 13th century and you can find a full history on the Tarbert, Loch Fyne link right.
Rothesay Castle - Mount Stuart - Isle of Bute
The Isle of Bute is the seat of the Stuarts, Kings of Scotland and Rothesay Castle was their ancestral home. Built 800 years ago its circular design is unique to Scotland. Its ruins are in the middle of Rothesay town and open to visitors Mon-Sat 9.30am -7pm and Sunday 2-7pm. Closed Thursday afternoons and Fridays during the winter. Telephone 01700 502691. Events are often held at the castle including musical events, historic re-enactments and you can organise your wedding here.
The Stuarts later moved to Mount Stuart which suffered a fire and replaced by the grand neo-Gothic Mount Stuart designed by the third Marquess of Bute and his architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson.
Mount Stuart house and 300 acre gardens are open to visitors: Easter weekend and daily from 1 May-30 September 2007 (inclusive). Gardens open: 10am-6pm daily. House open Sun-Fri 11am-5pm. Saturday 10am-2pm. The entrance fee to the house includes a guided tour. The house also has a contemporary visual arts gallery and restaurant.
Inveraray Castle, Argyll
Inveraray Castle looks like something out of a fairytale. Nestled amongst trees and gardens its many turrets and spires look like something Rapunzel would have been locked up in. It is a mix of Baroque, Palladian and Gothic architecture owing much to a French influence. Building commenced in 1746 and it was the first castle of this size and type to be built in a remote part of Scotland. It has been home to the Campbells since that time with the current Duke carrying on this tradition as well as promoting the Chivas Regal and Glenlivet malt whiskies and captaining an Elephant Polo team!
The castle is open to visitors from April-October Mon-Sat 10am-5.45pm. Sundays are open from 12-5.45pm. Visitors are welcomed for guided tours around the castle and you can also explore the 16 acre gardens and nature trails free of charge. Guided tours of the garden are also offered on Fridays in May and June. Check the website for more information on all aspects of the castle, link right.
Argyll Estates Office, Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8XE. Tel: 01499 302203. Fax: 01499 302421. Email: enquiries@inveraray-castle.com
Kilmartin and Carnasserie Castles and Kilmartin Church
Kilmartin is a pretty village north of Lochgilphead in Argyll. Overlooking the Kilmartin Glen is the 16th century Kilmartin Castle that was the property of the Campbells and is where many of them were buried. The castle is thought to originate from 1580 and has been restored to a private home and is not open to the public.
Carnosserie Castle is open to the public and dates from the late 16th century. It is two miles north of Kilmartin and was built by John Carswell who first translated the first book ever to be printed in Gaelic. Historic Scotland now manage the castle and although there are no intact floors you can climb the towers. Admission is free.
Edinburgh Castle & Edinburgh Castle History
Of Scotland's many castles, Edinburgh Castle stands out as one of the most dramatic Scottish Castles and one of the most visited Scottish tourist sites. Stragegically situated on Castle Rock (an old volcano worn down by glaciers) which pushes up above Princes Street in the heart of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle has dominated the city's landscape since the 11th century.
Both the Scots and English have seized control of Edinburgh Castle through the centuries, and it has alternated between royal palace and military fortress. The oldest remaining part is St Margaret's Chapel dating from the 12th century, whilst the striking Great Hall built by James IV dates from about 1510. Two particular highlights within Edinburgh Castle include the unique National War Museum and Scotland's Crown Jewels (Honours of Scotland), the oldest Crown Jewels in Europe dating from 1540 with the Crown made from Robert the Bruce's coronet, plus the Stone of Destiny.
On the Esplanade is the Witches' Well put up in 1894 to mark the spot where 300 women perished after being accused of witchcraft. They faced grusome deaths, being burnt alive from 1479 to 1722.
Edinburgh Castle, Castle Hill, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH1 2NG, Scotland. Tel. 44 (131) 2259846. (see Historic Scotland's Edinburgh Castle weblink right for details on opening times and planning your visit). Conveniently a courtesy vehicle runs regularly upto the Castle assisting visitors with disability or mobility issues, and access is good on-site with ramps and lifts to the Stone of Destiny, Crown Jewels and exhibitions.
Linlithgow Palace & Linlithgow
Hardly surprising that Linlithgow Palace, idyllically situated as it is by Linlithgow Loch, was a favoured residence of the Stewarts. Mary Queen of Scots was born here in December 1542, and became queen just a few days after her birth. The ruins are impressive and include the Great Hall and the inner courtyard fountain. All of the Stewart kings lived at Linlithgow Palace at some point. See the Historic Scotland Palace weblink right for opening times.
Linlithgow Palace, Kirkgate, Linlithgow, West Lothian, EH49 7AL. Tel. 01506 842896.
Dumbarton & Dumbarton Castle
Two major tourist attractions are situated in Dumbarton on the Clyde's northern banks, and both are highly recommended for a tour. Dumbarton Castle is another of Scotland's striking castles situated on an old volcanic rock just to the southeast of the town centre. Serving as a strategic hill fort as far back as the Roman period, Mary Queen of Scots visited Dumbarton Castle later in 1548.
Hauling yourself up the 547 steps to the peak of Dumbarton Castle is well worth the effort for spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde. From the 5th century up until 1018, Dumbarton Castle was a central powerhouse within the Kingdom of Strathclyde and often used as a retreating place of safety by Royals. You can see why - this Scottish castle is particularly impenetrable. Dumbarton Rock, on which Dumbarton Castle is situated is a site of special scientific interest holding both archeological and wildlife gems.
Dumbarton Castle, Castle Road, Dumbarton, Dunbartonshire G82 1JJ. Scotland. Tel. 01389 732167. (see Historic Scotland's Dumbarton Castle weblink right for opening times and directions). Visit also the Denny Tank, Castle Street, Dumbarton, G82 1QS. Tel. 01389 763444. (weblink right, free parking is on-site).
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is the archetypical Scottish Castle perched next to a loch. It's just east of the Kyle of Lochalsh overlooking Loch Duich. People have lived here since the 6th century but a fortified castle wasn't present until the 13th century.
The Jacobite uprising was responsible for the castle being brought into ruin in 1719 when it was attacked for harbouring Bonnie Prince Charlie's father, The Old Pretender. It wasn't until the 20th century that it was restored to what you'll see today.
It is much visited and photographed and has even appeared in several films including Entrapment, Highlander and the James Bond film The World is Not Enough. For the ultimate in romantic settings how about getting married there. Check the weblink right for more information.
There is a large car park for the castle just off the main A87. There is also a coffee shop, gift shop and toilets. The castle is open between 10am-6pm during March and November with the Visitor Centre closing at 5pm. The castle opens earlier at 9am during July and August. Nearby is the hamlet of Dornie where there is some accommodation and bars that sometimes have live music.
Ardvreck Castle Loch Assynt Northwest Highlands
Just before you turn off the A837 to Lochinver under the shadow of Ben More Assynt is Loch Assynt on which the ruins of Ardveck Castle stand. This was built around the 16th century as the seat of the MacLeods of Assynt. It was a violent place to be with murders, executions and sieges being a regular occurrence. It is believed that the castle is haunted and with that kind of brutal history it wouldn't be surprising. It's nonetheless a picturesque stopping off point with a car park and interpretation boards.
Inverness Castle
Inverness has had a castle since the 11th century but various uprisings meant that they were successively destroyed both by Robert the Bruce and the Jacobites so the English and Government of the time couldn't get their hands on it. The current red sandstone castle was built in 1835.
The Drum Tower is open to the public during the summer and houses the Castle Garrison Experience, an interactive display where you get to play the role of a new recruit in the 18th century Hanoverian army. Open daily March-Oct 10.30am-5.30 pm. Tel: 01463 243 363. In the summery evenings a piper plays from 7pm to 7.30pm on the Castle Hill.
Kilravock Castle Croy Inverness
Kilravock Castle has been the seat of the Roses since the 15th century. The tower having been built in 1460 and the mansion house added in 1553, all of which is surrounded by grounds covering 40 acres in which many ancient trees stand.
The castle is open to the public on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 2.30pm and 4.00pm. Group bookings are welcomed by appointment. Tel: 01667 493258 to book. B&B, functions, weddings can also be booked at the castle.
Cawdor Castle Invernesshire Scotland
Fourteenth century Cawdor Castle, eight miles east of Culloden, is mostly visited for its association with Shakespeare's Macbeth. The witches predict that Macbeth will become Thane of Cawdor inciting his doomed pursuit of the title. It is certainly everything you could wish for from a castle with high turrets and towers watched over by gargoyles as well as a drawbridge, hidden passageways and dungeons. It is also believed to be haunted by two ghosts, a lady in a blue velvet dress and John Campbell, the first Lord Cawdor.
The castle is still used as a family home to the Campbells of Cawdor, but is open to the public from May to October between 10am-5.30pm. Entrance fees allow you to explore the castle and its grounds in which are gardens and nature trails. There is also a restaurant, shop and 9-hole golf course which is open 10am-5pm every day from 1 May until the second Sunday in October.
Check the official Cawdor Castle website, link right, for more information including details of salmon fishing on the River Findhorn on the estate.
Brodie Castle Near Inverness
Brodie Castle is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is just seven miles east of Nairn.
It is a 16th century tower house that was home to the Brodie family until the late 20th century. It is now packed with antiques, paintings and a library with 6,000 books open to the public from March to October. You can take a guided tour around the castle or wander at your leisure through the grounds that contain woodland walks and a pond with hides for watching the wildlife.
Check their website for up-to-date opening times and entrance fees, link right.
Castle Urquhart Urquhart Bay Loch Ness Sightings
Just outside the town south at Urquhart Bay is Castle Urquhart. It is one of Scotland's largest castles on the banks of Loch Ness where it has occupied a defensive position for over 500 years. It is believed that a Pictish fort or settlement once occupied the site and that the present castle was built in the 13th century.
It is also the place that most sightings of the Loch Ness Monster have been reported.
Historic Scotland now has a modern visitor centre that incorporates a shop, cafe, audio-visual displays and model showing what Castle Urquhart would have looked like when it was more intact. This does mean that you can't get access to the castle without going through the visitor centre and paying the entrance fee, but you can get a good view from the car park.
Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven
Spectacular Dunnottar Castle, just to the south of Stonehaven on the dramatic rocky coastline here is one of Scotland's most impressive castles. Castles don't come much more impregnable than Dunnottar, perched as it is out to sea on a rocky headland.
Dunnottar Castle has some prestigious guests in its day, including William Wallace, Charles II and Mary Queen of Scots. Dunnottar's most famous event however is the small garrison that held up here against Cromwell for 8 months, saving both the Scottish Crown jews and Honours of Scotland to boot. Covenanters (those who refused to acknowledge the supremecy of the king) were impressed here at Dunnottar Castle in the 'Whigs Vault in grusome conditions in 1685. This Scottish Castle south of Aberdeen is both dramatic and an important site within Scottish History.
Allow around 2 hours for your visit, and see the Dunnottar Castle website right for opening times. Generally open daily from 9am to 6pm, and children go free!
Dunnottar Castle, Estates Office, Dunecht, Westhill, Aberdeenshire AB32 7AW. Tel. 01330 860223. Tel. 01569 762173 (Kiosk).
Balmoral Castle & Estate, Between Ballater & Braemar
Queen Victoria loved the Deeside countryside so much, Prince Albert purchased a home here. Balmoral was leased by Albert in 1848, and finally brought by him in 1852. It's remained in Royal hands ever since, and the Royals still come here usually every July and August (when it's closed to the public).
The Balmoral Estate is big, covering over 50,000 acres. The grounds contain some of the ancient Caledonian woodland pines distinctive in the area.
Prince Albert added extensively to the original house using local granite from Glen Gelder (hence the whitish stone look of the place). Visit also Crathie Kirk just on the A93 near Balmoral. The Royal Family attend services here during their residence, and the site is open to the public, with visitor centre opposite.
When the Royal Family are not in residence, Balmoral offers a programme of activities as well as touring the house. These include everything from guided walks around the Balmoral Estate to luxury land rover safaris. Salmon Fishing on the River Dee near Balmoral is also popular as are the Balmoral Road races and various themed holidays in areas like painting. (see the Balmoral weblink right for details). A coffee shop and various changing exhibitions are on-site. Balmoral Castle & Estate, The Estates Office, Balmoral, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5TB. Tel. 013397 42534.
Forfar Angus Scotland & Glamis Castle
With its turrets, towers, statues and fine setting near rural Forfar close to the Angus Glens, Glamis Castle is the stuff of fairytales. As well as Glamis' striking looks attracting numerous visitors, its royal links also bring in the crowds. This Scottish castle was the childhood home of the Queen Mother and birthplace of Princess Margaret. Events run throughout the year in the extensive Glamis grounds and gardens. Check the Glamis Castle weblink right for details. You can even get married here!
Glamis Castle, Estates Office, Glamis, Angus, DD8 1RJ. Tel Internation. 00 44 1307 840393. (weblink right for details).
Kisimul Castle, Barra, Outer Hebrides
Castlebay is the main and only settlement on Barra in the Outer Hebrides. The castle on an islet in the bay, Kisimul Castle, still exists which is open to visitors between Apr-Sept. This was the ancestral home of the MacNeil clan but was burnt down in the 18th century. It was later restored.
Dunvegan Castle and Gardens
Dunvegan Castle has been the seat of the McLeods for 800 years. It has stayed in the family for all that time and almost continuously occupied by the family with the exception of the time during the potato famine.
The castle sits atop a rock which at one time was surrounded by sea. Today it's surrounded by well tended gardens that attract visitors from all over the world. The gardens were first laid out in the 18th century and is one of the few areas on Skye where you'll find woodland walks.
You can also visit the castle itself which is open all year round: mid March-end October 10am-5pm. November-mid March 11am-4pm. There is a restaurant and shop on the site and weddings can be arranged here.
From the jetty outside the castle regular boat trips depart for seal spotting trips round Loch Dunvegan or longer trips out to the islands Mingay, Isay and Clett. Enquiries: MacLeod Estate Office, Tel: 01470 521206. Fax: 01470 521205.
Isle of Mull Castles
One of the first things you'll see on arrival in Mull is Torosay Castle. Opposite the bay is Duart Castle.
Torosay Castle is a short distance from the ferry terminal at Craignure. It's a classic Scottish Baronial home. It's current owners open it up to visitors who can also tour the gardens, dotted with a variety of sculptures amongst the vegetation. Check the weblink right for more information. Torosay Castle, Craignure, Isle of Mull, PA65 6AY. Tel: 01680 812421. Fax: 01680 812470. Email: info@torosay.com
Duart Castle is the 400 year old base for the Clan Maclean. It sits on the clifftops overlooking the Sound of Mull. The current Chief Maclean has had various repairs carried out to the castle and you can now walk through the dungeons and state rooms which eventually lead you up to the top of the keep where it is easy to appreciate the strategic site of the castle. Check the weblink right for opening times and further information.
Brodick Castle, Isle of Arran
One of the first sights as the ferry nears the Isle of Arran is Brodick Castle which was strategically placed as a defensive fortification from the 13th century. The castle is now situated within a country park - the only country park on an island in Britain - with a fabulous backdrop of Goat Fell that rises to 874 feet.
Lochranza Castle - Isle of Arran Distillery
Lochranza Castle dates from the 13th century and was one a hunting lodge of the Scottish kings. Much of what stands today is from later modifications in the 16th century. It is usually open between Apr-Sept and you can get some good views over Loch Ranza and the village.
Caerlaverock Castle & Caerlaverock Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Centre Near Dumfries
As you'd expect there's a scattering of historic Scottish Castles in Dumfries and Galloway, many of which changed hands from Scottish to English and back again several times. Striking medieval stronghold Caerlaverock Castle (Lark's Nest), situated to the south of Dumfries (9 miles) on the northern banks of the Solway Firth is not to be missed. The history of conflict is here as the castle was at the heart of the border conflicts. Caerlaverock Castle remains are impressive indeed, with moat and twin towers, plus gatehouse and battlements all intact. On-site is a warfare exhibition plus a children's adventure park and nature trail, plus a shop.
Caerlaverock Castle, Caerlaverock, Glencaple, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway DG1 4RU, Scotland. Tel. 01387 770244 (see Caerlaverock Castle's weblink right for details and opening times). Parking is nearby, and visitors with disabilities can be dropped nearer the castle. The castle is sandwiched between two wetland nature reserves and is a Green Tourism attraction.
Drumlanrig Castle near Dumfries
Drumlanrig Castle north of Dumfries near Thornhill isn't just a magnificent historic castle these days, it's a superb attraction as well with gardens, trails, workshops, kids adventure playground, four wheel drive tours, fishing and a superb tearoom on-site. Mountain biking trails are also here within the 120,000 acre Queensberry Estate. More of a vast Stately home attraction than a ruined castle like Caerlaverock, Drumlanrig and the Queensberry estate are home to the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry who happens to be one of the richest blokes in the UK.
Drumlanrig Castle, essentially a huge pink sandstone stately home, holds some unique architectural features including the 'Pink Palance', a fine example of 17th Century Renaissance architecture. Take one of the guided tours which scoots both inside and outside the house, and around the gardens for a detailed history of the architecture. Drumlanrig Castle is a superb attraction for families - kids will love the adventure playground, tree trails, cycle trails and mountain bike trails. Both cycle hire and a visitor centre is on-site.
Look to the Drumlanrig Castle weblink right for a comprehensive history of the estate which dates back to it passing into the hands of William Douglas, 1st Laird of Drumlanrig in or before 1388. New for 2006 in the gardens is the small Bog Garden, plus there's a big plant centre and Victorian glasshouse on-site.
Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill, Dumfriesshire, DG3 4AG. Tel:01848 331 555. (Drumlanrig Castle's website is linked right for more details).
Threave Castle, Castle Douglas
Threave Castle (5 miles west of Castle Douglas off the A75) sits just a mile north of Threave Gardens (an easy walk) and is unusually set on a small island on the River Dee. You can reach this Scottish castle via a boat. You'll need to go down some steep steps to the riverbank which are unsuitable for wheelchair users.
The distinctive Threave Castle tower dates from the 14th Century and was built by Archibald the Grim (nice name) - one of the Black Douglases and Lord of Galloway. The structure of revolutionary in its time, with its unique rectangular tower.
Once across the river the castle reveals a storage area, a prison in the basement area and a flat roof, designed that way to deal with stone throwing weapons. The jutting out balcony also aided throwing hot oil and the like onto attackers below. A fascinating structure, and well worth a visit, Threave Castle later fell into English hands and effectively disabled. The rectangular tower however survives almost intact.
Threave Castle, Castle Douglas. Tel. 07711 223101 (weblink right for details).
Culzean Castle & Country Park, Culzean Experience
One of Ayrshire's top visitor attraction is in the Culzean Bay area to the south of Ayr. Culzean Castle and Country Park is situated right on the cliff edge of the Ayrshire coast overlooking the Firth of Clyde and on to the Isle of Arran. Culzean (pronounced as cullane) was in the hands of the Kennedy family for many years, but now the Culzean Experience (a culmination of events, visitor centre, walks and trails, education and shopping and weddings and dining) is run by the National Trust for Scotland. The Kennedy Family presented it to the NTS in 1945.
Culzean Castle is essentially an elaborate stately home - the final masterpiece of architect and designer Robert Adam. This is one of Scotland's finest and best loved castles. To appreciate Adam's work on the house a tour is highly recommended - the Oval Staircase and Round Drawing Room designed by Adam is a particular highlight.
As well as Culzean Castle, the surrounding Country Park is stunning. Guided walks by park rangers are available from the Visitor Centre Courtyard, or explore some of the many trails and walks for both kids and parents independently. This full on celebrated attractions also includes a visitor centre, walled garden, deer park, NTS shops, bookshops, restaurants and coffee houses, a swan pond and pagoda, craft fairs and adjacent beach area. Plenty to fill a family fun day and more, with magnificent views from here on clear days! Culzean Castle and Country Park, Maybole, Ayrshire, KA19 8LE. Tel. 0870 118 1945. (weblink right for details, open from March to October 10.30am to 5pm).
Featured Scotland Accommodation
Glenfern Guest House - Balloch
A good quality guest house in Balloch, at the head of Loch Lomond. Elegant en-suite guest rooms, delicious breakfasts and magnificent surroundings.
£25 to £35 Per Person B&B
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Internet Links
- Scone Palace Perthshire
- Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven, North East
- Glamis Castle, Angus, North East
- Blair Castle, Highland Perthshire
- Castle Menzies & the Clan Menzies, Perthshire
- Balmoral Castle, Royal Deeside
- Inveraray Castle
- Eilean Donan Castle
- Cawdor Castle, Nairn
- Kilravock Castle, near Inverness
- Brodie Castle, Forres
- Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye
- Castle Stalker, Appin