Auchindoun Castle
A late-medieval tower within prehistoric earthworks above Glen Fiddich.
CastleScotland
THE INDEPENDENT SCOTTISH CASTLE GUIDE
Scottish castles
map & visitor guides
Explore castles, tower houses and ruins across Scotland with an interactive map, original photographs and practical advice on tickets, travel and parking.
86castles personally visited
11regions to explore
original photos & sourced history
A LIVING ATLAS
Scottish castles by region
Start with a region, then follow the roads, coastlines and old borderlands at your own pace.
THE STORIES BEHIND THE STONECastles have stories.
Castles have stories.
Clans bring them to life.
Discover the families, traditions and tartans connected to Scotland’s castles.
Explore Clans & Castles ↗NEW IN THE COLLECTION
Recently added castles
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY
Where will you go next?
One day from Edinburgh
Choose a castle near the capital and build your day around it.
Explore the plan
Castles without a ticket
Free grounds and exterior viewpoints, with access explained.
Explore the plan
The Royal Heart · 2 days
Edinburgh, Linlithgow, Stirling and Doune, with overnight stops.
Explore the planBEFORE YOU GO
A better castle day
starts here.
Practical advice shaped by real visits. Not only the history, but the details that make the day work.
Check the place before you set out.
Opening hours and access can change with weather, conservation work or events. Always check the official site on the day you travel.
Explore the Scottish castle mapTickets & opening
Popular castles often use timed entry. Book ahead in summer and during school holidays.
Weather & footwear
Clifftops, ruins and island paths can be wet and exposed. Bring a waterproof layer and shoes with grip.
Parking & access
Remote ruins may have tiny lay-bys or a walk from the road. Check the individual guide before arriving.
Photography
Early and late light can be more dramatic, and the sites quieter. Respect signs, private land and any indoor restrictions.
RANDOM PLACES FROM THE ATLAS
Five castles. Five reasons
to leave the main road.
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CASTLE APP
Take the field guide with you.
Castles, photos and your travel plans, close at hand. Add Castle app to your phone’s home screen and get ready for your next adventure. The PWA is currently available in English only.
- Save your favourites and visited castles
- Explore the map and plan your route
- Download guides before travelling to read them offline
Explore Scotland
Find Scottish castles by region, landscape or the stories that bring them to life.