Cliff-top ruins, island fortresses and fairytale homes: six castles worth planning a route around.
Scotland has more than a thousand castles, from ruins on the coast to homes that are still lived in. These six are the most scenic, and most can be combined into a road trip or a day out from a city. Check opening times before you go, since some close in winter.
On a small island where three lochs meet in the Highlands, linked to the shore by a stone footbridge. The first castle here dates from the 13th century. It was destroyed in 1719 during the Jacobite risings and rebuilt in the early 20th century. It is one of the most photographed places in Scotland, so arrive early for fewer people.
A ruin on a cliff above the North Sea, near Stonehaven. The walk from the car park takes about 15 minutes and includes steep steps. In the 1650s, the Scottish crown jewels were hidden here from Oliver Cromwell's army. The setting is dramatic in any weather.
One of the grandest Renaissance buildings in Scotland, perched on a rock above the town. Mary, Queen of Scots was crowned here as a baby in 1543. The restored Royal Palace and the Great Hall give a good idea of court life, and the views reach as far as the Highlands.
A Gothic-style castle on the shore of Loch Fyne, home of the Duke of Argyll, chief of Clan Campbell. The 18th-century building has turrets, an armoury with thousands of weapons and gardens to walk through. It appeared in an episode of Downton Abbey.
The ruins stand on a headland on the western shore of Loch Ness. A visitor centre tells the story of the castle's long history, and the view over the loch is the main attraction. It is also the best place to keep an eye out for the Loch Ness Monster.
A pink-stone castle in Angus, known as the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and the birthplace of Princess Margaret. It is linked to Shakespeare's Macbeth through the title Thane of Glamis. You can tour the rooms and walk in the gardens.
Tip: Edinburgh Castle is the most visited castle in Scotland, but it is covered in our Edinburgh guide. If you want to save time, combine Stirling Castle with a day trip from Edinburgh.