Scotland is home to countless castles, each with its own story. While some are well-known, many hidden gems await discovery. From rugged ruins perched on cliffs to secretive fortresses tucked in the countryside, these lesser-known castles offer a glimpse into the nation’s rich past. Embark on a journey to explore these treasures scattered across the Scottish landscape.
Inveraray Castle
Tucked away in the small town of Inveraray, this stunning castle is often overlooked by tourists. Built in 1746, it boasts Gothic Revival architecture and lush gardens. The entrance fee is £14 for adults, making it affordable for a day trip. It’s hidden in the sense that it’s located far from major cities, offering a peaceful retreat. The interior showcases period furniture and art, perfect for history buffs.
Dunnottar Castle
Perched on a dramatic cliffside near Stonehaven, Dunnottar Castle is a hidden fortress often missed by casual travelers. The castle was built in the 14th century, with some structures dating back even earlier. Entry costs £10 for adults, and its remote location requires a scenic hike, adding to its allure. The ruins are surrounded by breathtaking coastal views, making the journey worthwhile. Its hidden beauty lies in its relatively isolated position, away from the usual tourist routes.
Tantallon Castle
This semi-ruined fortress, built in the mid-14th century, sits high on a cliff overlooking the North Sea. It’s a hidden gem due to its off-the-beaten-path location near North Berwick. Entry is £7, and visitors can explore its impressive defensive walls and towers. With fewer tourists visiting, it offers a tranquil experience of Scotland’s medieval past. The panoramic coastal views are just as captivating as the castle itself.
Castle Stalker
Castle Stalker is one of the most secluded and picturesque castles in Scotland, located on an islet in Loch Laich. Built in the 14th century, this tower house remains remarkably intact. You can book a private tour for £20, as it’s accessible only by boat. Its hidden charm comes from its remote island location, making it a peaceful spot for explorers. Surrounded by water and wildlife, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Culzean Castle
Located near Ayr, Culzean Castle is hidden within a large country park, offering a serene escape. Built in the 18th century, it features stunning architecture and well-kept gardens. Entry costs £18 for adults, which includes access to the grounds and castle interiors. Its expansive estate makes it feel like a hidden retreat, despite its grandeur. The castle’s cliff-top location provides sweeping views of the Firth of Clyde.
Craigievar Castle
This fairytale-like castle, painted in pink, is hidden in the Aberdeenshire countryside. Built in the early 17th century, it remains a well-preserved example of Scottish Baronial architecture. Admission is £12, and guided tours offer insight into its rich history and quirky design. Its secluded location makes it less frequented by tourists, creating an intimate experience. The surrounding woodland enhances its charm and peaceful atmosphere.
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle, built in the 13th century and redesigned in the 19th century, resembles a French château. Despite its grandeur, its location near Golspie keeps it relatively hidden from large crowds. Entry is £12, and visitors can explore the elegant interiors and beautiful gardens. It’s often missed due to its distance from major cities, but well worth the journey. The castle’s turreted towers and sea views are unforgettable.
Ballindalloch Castle
Known as the “Pearl of the North,” Ballindalloch Castle is nestled in the Speyside countryside. Built in 1546, it remains a privately owned residence but is open for visitors at £12 per adult. Its hidden nature comes from its secluded valley location, far from the usual tourist paths. The castle is surrounded by manicured gardens and a working estate, giving it a unique, lived-in charm. Inside, you’ll find centuries-old furnishings and family heirlooms.
Edzell Castle
Tucked away in the village of Edzell, this 16th-century castle is often overlooked by tourists. Entry costs £6, allowing visitors to explore its Renaissance-style gardens and ruins. Its off-the-beaten-path location adds to its hidden appeal, offering a quiet escape. The beautifully preserved gardens contrast with the red sandstone ruins, creating a peaceful, picturesque setting. Edzell is a reminder of Scotland’s rich historical layers, waiting to be explored.
Huntly Castle
Located in Aberdeenshire, Huntly Castle’s rich history dates back to the 12th century. It’s a hidden gem due to its less-traveled location, offering a peaceful visit away from crowds. Entry is £6 for adults, giving access to its striking medieval ruins. The castle is famous for its carved stonework and historical significance, but its remote spot makes it often overlooked. You can explore its history while enjoying a quiet stroll through the grounds.
Cawdor Castle
This 15th-century castle, linked to Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” is a hidden treasure in the Scottish Highlands. Entry is £12, and visitors can tour the elegant interiors and stunning gardens. It remains a privately owned residence, adding to its exclusive feel. Its hidden charm comes from its quiet location near Nairn, away from major tourist trails. The beautiful gardens and ancient woodlands make it a serene escape.
Castle Campbell
Castle Campbell, built in the late 15th century, lies tucked away in a valley near Dollar. Entry is £6, and visitors can explore the well-preserved tower house and surrounding grounds. Its hidden charm is due to its remote location, requiring a scenic walk through woods and waterfalls. Despite its stunning setting, it remains a lesser-known destination. The views of the surrounding hills and the peaceful atmosphere make it worth seeking out.
Kilchurn Castle
Overlooking Loch Awe, Kilchurn Castle is one of Scotland’s most scenic hidden castles. Built in the mid-15th century, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Entry is free, but it’s hidden due to its remote location, accessible only by a short walk. Its romantic ruins attract fewer tourists, making it a peaceful spot to explore. The combination of lochside scenery and ancient ruins creates a perfect getaway for history lovers.
Duart Castle
Located on the Isle of Mull, Duart Castle dates back to the 13th century and remains a seat of the Clan Maclean. Its remote island location adds to its hidden appeal, with entry priced at £8. Visitors can explore the interiors, clan history, and the surrounding gardens. Despite its historical significance, it remains a quiet escape due to its location off the mainland. The rugged coastline views from the castle are breathtaking.
Castle Fraser
This grand 15th-century castle is hidden in the Aberdeenshire countryside, offering a peaceful escape. Entry costs £14, giving visitors access to its towers, grounds, and quirky interiors. Its relatively isolated location means fewer tourists visit, making it a tranquil spot to enjoy. Castle Fraser is one of the largest tower houses in Scotland, with fascinating rooms and hidden staircases to explore. The castle’s woodland estate is perfect for a quiet nature walk.
Brodie Castle
Brodie Castle, built in the 16th century, is tucked away in Moray, surrounded by stunning parkland. Entry is £12, and visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors and extensive gardens. Despite its beauty, it remains a hidden gem due to its off-the-beaten-path location. The castle offers a blend of history and nature, making it an ideal retreat for a peaceful day out. Brodie’s vibrant daffodil collection in the spring is a must-see.
Castle Menzies
Castle Menzies, built in the 16th century, sits hidden in the Highland Perthshire countryside. Entry is £9, and the castle is a well-preserved example of a Renaissance fortress. Its isolated location makes it a hidden treasure, often missed by tourists. Visitors can explore its grand interiors, including the Great Hall and ancient cellars. The surrounding scenery adds to its charm, making it a peaceful escape.
Caerlaverock Castle
This unique triangular castle is located in Dumfries and Galloway, far from Scotland’s typical tourist spots. Built in the 13th century, its distinctive shape sets it apart from other castles. Entry costs £6, and visitors can enjoy exploring the ruins and surrounding wildlife reserve. Its hidden charm comes from its isolated location, creating a tranquil experience. Caerlaverock’s moat and red sandstone walls make it a striking sight.
Stirling Castle
Although more well-known, Stirling Castle remains hidden in plain sight due to its less frequented position. Built in the 12th century, it played a key role in Scottish history. Entry costs £16, and visitors can explore the royal chambers, Great Hall, and chapel. Its location atop a craggy hill gives it a hidden feel despite its size and grandeur. Stirling’s historical significance is matched only by its stunning panoramic views.
Thirlestane Castle
This grand 16th-century castle is hidden in the Borders region, making it a lesser-known destination. Entry is £10, and visitors can tour the opulent interiors and extensive grounds. Despite its beauty, Thirlestane remains off the beaten path, offering a peaceful and uncrowded visit. The castle’s rich history and impressive collection of artifacts make it a treasure trove for history lovers. Its secluded countryside setting adds to its hidden appeal.
Dunstaffnage Castle
Located near Oban, Dunst affnage Castle dates back to the 13th century and overlooks the Firth of Lorn. Entry costs £6, and visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins and chapel. Its hidden charm comes from its location on the coast, far from the typical tourist trails. The castle’s commanding views of the sea make it a peaceful spot to explore. Dunstaffnage’s historical significance as a former stronghold adds to its allure.
Scalloway Castle
This lesser-known castle on the Shetland Islands was built in 1600 by Earl Patrick Stewart. Entry is free, but its remote island location makes it one of Scotland’s hidden gems. Scalloway Castle’s historical significance lies in its role in Shetland’s turbulent past, yet it remains rarely visited. The ruins offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage, making it a must-see for history buffs. Its isolated location adds to its mysterious charm.
Exploring these hidden castles across Scotland offers a unique glimpse into the country’s fascinating past. Each one tells its own story and provides an unforgettable experience away from the crowds. Whether you’re drawn to the history, architecture, or stunning locations, these hidden gems are well worth the visit. Start planning your Scottish castle adventure today and uncover the beauty that lies off the beaten path.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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