10 Best Castles to Visit in the Scottish Highlands

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10 Best Castles to Visit in the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are a dream destination for history enthusiasts, and castles are among the region's most captivating attractions. With their dramatic settings, rich histories, and architectural charm, Highland castles offer a compelling reason to explore the Scottish Highlands, offer a compelling reason to explore the Scottish Highlands, offer a window into Scotland's storied past. To help you plan the perfect castle tour, we’ve compiled a detailed guide to the 10 best castles to visit, complete with practical advice, costs, and travel tips. Let’s dive in!

1. Eilean Donan Castle

Known as the most famous castle in the Scottish Highlands, Eilean Donan Castle stands at the confluence of three lochs—Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long—creating one of the most picturesque and recognizable scenes in Scotland. It’s a must-see for its dramatic setting and fascinating history.

• Location: Near Dornie, IV40 8DX
• Drive Time: ~1.5 hours from Inverness (120 km) via A87; ~3 hours from Edinburgh via A82/A87
• Admission: £38/adult, £6.50/child (5+), free for under-5s
• Highlights: Rebuilt 20th-century interiors, MacRae clan exhibits, loch views

Travel Tip: Arrive early (around 10 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy calmer loch reflections for photos. Note that photography is not allowed inside the castle. Midges can be an issue in summer, so bring insect repellent.

Learn more about the history of this iconic site and its role in the Jacobite risings while enjoying the spectacular setting. This is a must-visit for castle enthusiasts.

2. Urquhart Castle

Perched on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle offers history and intrigue alongside some of the best views of Scotland’s most famous loch. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, its ruins tell stories of medieval sieges, clan feuds, and Jacobite conflicts.

• Location: Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XJ
• Drive Time: ~30 minutes from Inverness via A82
• Admission: £12/adult, £7.20/child (5+), free for under-5s
• Highlights: Loch Ness views, visitor centre, trebuchet replica

Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a Loch Ness boat tour departing from Drumnadrochit for a unique perspective. Expect to spend 1-2 hours exploring the site.

3. Cawdor Castle and Gardens

Located near Nairn, Cawdor Castle and Gardens is a living castle with ties to Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” While the historical connection is tenuous, the castle itself is a delight, with well-preserved interiors and beautiful gardens.

• Location: Near Nairn, IV12 5RD
• Drive Time: ~25 minutes from Inverness via A96
• Admission: £13/adult, £6.50/child (5+), free for under-5s
• Highlights: Period furnishings, walled garden, nature trails

Travel Tip: Allocate time to explore the gardens and trails surrounding the property. The on-site café serves excellent lunches and teas, perfect for a relaxing break.

4. Dunrobin Castle

On the east coast near Golspie, Dunrobin Castle is a striking stately home with a fairy-tale appearance. It’s one of the largest and oldest continuously inhabited castles in Scotland, boasting 189 rooms and a history dating back to the 1300s.

• Location: Golspie, KW10 6SF
• Drive Time: ~1.5 hours from Inverness via A9
• Admission: £14/adult, £9/child (5+), free for under-5s
• Highlights: French château-style architecture, museum, falconry displays

Travel Tip: Check the falconry schedule before your visit, as the live demonstrations are a major highlight. The castle gardens, inspired by Versailles, are stunning in spring and summer.

5. Inverness Castle

Although currently under redevelopment, Inverness Castle offers commanding views over the River Ness and serves as a gateway to Highland history. While the interior is closed for renovations (expected to reopen in 2025), the grounds and surrounding area are worth exploring.

• Location: Inverness, IV2 3EG
• Drive Time: Located in the city centre
• Admission: Free for exterior views
• Highlights: Panoramic views, River Ness walks, central location

Travel Tip: Stop by the nearby Castle Viewpoint for amazing photos of the city and surrounding Highlands.

6. Castle Stalker

Located on a tidal islet on Loch Laich, Castle Stalker is one of Scotland’s most photogenic castles. Its remote setting adds to its allure, and private tours are available by prior arrangement.

• Location: Appin, PA38 4BL
• Drive Time: ~2.5 hours from Inverness via A82
• Admission: Tours by appointment; £20/person
• Highlights: Island setting, guided tours, Monty Python trivia

Travel Tip: Visit during low tide for the best photo angles. Combine with a trip to nearby Oban for a full day of sightseeing.

7. Kilchurn Castle

Overlooking Loch Awe, Kilchurn Castle is an atmospheric ruin perfect for photography. Built in the 15th century, it was once a stronghold of the Campbells of Glenorchy.

• Location: Dalmally, PA33 1AF
• Drive Time: ~2 hours from Inverness via A82/A85
• Admission: Free
• Highlights: Loch Awe views, historic ruins

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, as the path to the castle can be muddy. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photos.

8. Tulloch Castle

For an overnight castle experience, Tulloch Castle Hotel near Dingwall offers a stay steeped in history. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s famous for its ghost stories and traditional Highland hospitality.

• Location: Dingwall, IV15 9ND
• Drive Time: ~25 minutes from Inverness via A835
• Accommodation: Rooms from £120/night
• Highlights: Haunted history, on-site dining, castle ambiance

Travel Tip: Book well in advance, especially during peak summer months, as rooms fill quickly. Don’t miss the ghost tour offered to guests!

9. Fort George

While technically a military fort rather than a castle, Fort George is a must-visit for its scale and historical significance. Built after the Jacobite rising of 1745, it’s one of the mightiest fortifications in Europe.

• Location: Near Inverness, IV2 7TD
• Drive Time: ~30 minutes from Inverness via A96
• Admission: £9/adult, £5.40/child (5+), free for under-5s
• Highlights: Cannons, regimental museum, Moray Firth dolphins

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars for dolphin spotting from the ramparts. Allow at least two hours to explore the grounds and exhibitions.

10. Ardvreck Castle

This remote Highland ruin sits on a promontory on Loch Assynt. Dating back to 1490, Ardvreck Castle was a MacLeod clan stronghold and is steeped in legends, including tales of betrayal and ghosts.

• Location: Loch Assynt, IV27 4HB
• Drive Time: ~2 hours from Inverness via A835/A837
• Admission: Free
• Highlights: Loch Assynt views, haunting atmosphere

Travel Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby Achmelvich Beach for a day of scenic exploration. The ruins are best visited in good weather due to their exposed location.

FAQs

Which castle in the Highlands is the most famous?

Eilean Donan Castle is the most famous and photographed castle in the Highlands, thanks to its dramatic island setting and cinematic history.

Are there any free Highland castles to visit?

Yes, several ruined castles like Ardvreck Castle and Kilchurn Castle are free to visit. However, intact castles like Eilean Donan require paid admission.

How should I dress for a castle tour?

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain, and bring a waterproof jacket—Highland weather can change quickly.

Is it possible to stay overnight in a Highland castle?

Yes, castles like Tulloch Castle Hotel offer accommodation. Book early to secure your stay, especially during peak season.

What’s the best time of year to visit Highland castles?

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal, with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Summer offers long daylight hours but can be busy.

Key Takeaways

From the iconic Eilean Donan Castle to the atmospheric ruins of Ardvreck, the Scottish Highlands offer a wealth of castles to explore. Plan ahead, dress for the weather, and prioritize the sites that interest you most. With this guide, your castle tour will be as seamless as it is memorable. Happy exploring!

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