Four Atmospheric Scottish Castles to Visit During Winter

Winter is an ideal season to see Scotland's magnificent castles. We've chosen four atmospheric Scottish fortifications that will evoke images of heroes in dazzling armour.

Dunnottar Castle

A destroyed medieval fortress located on a rocky point on Scotland's northeast coast. Over the centuries, this castle has hosted many of Scotland's most famous historical people, including William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, and King Charles II.

Edinburgh Castle

This castle in Edinburgh does not require any introduction. It is one of Scotland's most recognizable structures, standing atop an extinct volcano and dominating the city skyline.

It is worth a visit not just for its significance in Scottish history, but also for the breathtaking views from the battlements.

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan is one of Scotland's most photographed castles and is recognized around the world as a symbol of Scotland. A castle has been on the same site for at least 1400 years, with four separate variants built since the thirteenth century. The castle is located on a tiny island surrounded by lochs dotted with leafy munros. Accessible only over an old stone footbridge, it's simple to see why the castle is so distinctive.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant and intact castles, has served as a fortification for at least nine centuries and was once a favourite residence of the Stewart monarchs. The palace was been rebuilt to depict what life would have been like in the reign of King James V.