Private Castle Tours Of Scotland

Sitting atop the craggy extinct volcano in the capital’s city centre, Edinburgh Castle steals most of the limelight. It is unquestionably Scotland’s most famous and important castle due to the number of invasions and gruesome wars it has been a part of throughout the centuries. The castle is the city’s iconic symbol and treasure that endears locals and from high up on its cragged throne, no matter the weather.

Once the residence of the Stewart kings and queens, Stirling Castle revels in its grandeur as it sits atop Castle Hill and against the surrounding Ochil hills. The castle may not be as iconic as Edinburgh’s, but it certainly is as scenic and profound with regards to its history. Being likened to ‘a huge brooch clasping Highlands and Lowlands together,’ Stirling Castle is perhaps revered more for its impressive architecture than its counterparts. Its role as a Royal Palace is hugely significant in Scottish history since many royal dramas have unfolded here with almost every Scottish monarch until the Union of the Crowns in 1604 having either lived, been crowned or died in the castle. 

Adorned by Queen Victoria as her ‘Dear paradise in the Highlands,’ Balmoral Castle remains part of the royal family’s property. It has been in their possession since 1852, the story being that Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, were so struck with the Highlands that they sought to reside in a property where they could live in a palace of luxury. Remaining true to its roots, every part of Balmoral Castle accentuates its Victorian Highland personality. When the royal family aren’t in residence, visitors can enjoy exhibitions in the Ballroom, the castle’s largest room, and wander through the charming gardens and grounds.

Perched on the edge of the North Sea, Dunrobin Castle is a fairy-tale chateau that combines French Renaissance architecture with the stoicism of a medieval fortress. With spires that reach towards the sky and gardens that cascade to the shore, Dunrobin is a historical jewel that has evolved through the centuries, home to the Dukes of Sutherland and offering a glimpse into the opulence of Scotland’s aristocratic past. 

Eilean Donan stands as an iconic sentinel at the confluence of three lochs, embodying Scotland’s romantic spirit. This restored castle, dating back to the 13th century, has witnessed a turbulent history and now serves as a symbol of resilience and beauty. Its storied walls and strategic location offer a profound connection to the ancestral clans that once presided over these lands.

Glamis Castle’s turrets and towers rise from the verdant Angus countryside, a family home since 1372. Steeped in legends and lore, including Shakespearean tales and royal connections, Glamis invites visitors to unravel the mysteries within its walls, promising an intimate encounter with Scotland’s noble and supernatural history.

Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress, gripping the rugged coastline with a dramatic flair. Its cliffside position has served both as a formidable defense and a royal refuge throughout its storied past. The ruins whisper tales of the Scottish crown jewels’ concealment and offer awe-inspiring views that connect visitors to the saga of Scotland’s heritage. This fairytale castle is a must visit.

There is a long list of iconic Scottish castles to choose from, due to their historical importance and later use as film and TV locations. Many parts of the hit TV series Outlander were filmed at Scottish castle locations including Doune Castle and Drummond Castle. Due to the wide-spread appeal and influence of Outlander, we have made special itineraries for guests to visit all of the castles used in the TV series. It feels unjust to exclude a number of big names from our shortlist of iconic castles to visit but here are our top three that never fails to take our breath away.

From well preserved medieval fortresses to inspiring cliff-top ruins, medieval castles are perhaps the most romantic due to the magical aura that surrounds them. Most of Scotland’s most iconic castles were built during a period involving treachery, bloody mutilations and beheadings. If you are fascinated by them as much as we are, then you are in for a treat because we can promise you that there is no better way to uncovering Scotland’s historical landscape.

If you are more interested in venturing far back into the oldest corners of this ancient country, then seeing ruined castles will spark your imagination and provoke your interest. Dating as far back as the 14th century, Scotland’s ruined castles hold as much substance in their character as their age. See first hand the ruins that show the imprint of centuries of history in their scarred stones.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ben Nevis, is a quintessential Scottish escape. Each room is an anthology of Victorian elegance, with opulent furnishings and timeless charm. Guests are treated to a regal experience, with contemporary comforts seamlessly integrated into the castle’s storied heritage.

Perched on the tranquil banks of Loch Faskally, Fonab Castle Hotel is a sanctuary of serenity and luxury. With interiors that echo the natural beauty of its surroundings, Fonab provides a retreat where history and modernity converge in a harmonious tapestry, offering a tranquil yet lavish Highland experience.

Glenapp Castle Hotel is a hidden treasure on the rugged Ayrshire coast, enveloped by enchanted woodlands and gardens. Its turrets and towers house sumptuous suites, while the castle’s gourmet dining and tailored activities make for an aristocratic sojourn, steeped in both luxury and adventure.

Crossbasket Castle, a resplendent 17th-century mansion, rises majestically in the Scottish countryside near Glasgow. It has been meticulously restored to offer an opulent hotel experience, with individually designed rooms that narrate a tale of historical splendor, all set within acres of wooded parkland and the meandering River Calder.

Dalhousie Castle Hotel, a fortress turned sanctuary, is a living chronicle of Scottish history. Only a stone’s throw from Edinburgh, it provides a royal encounter with its majestic suites, a renowned spa set within the castle’s dungeons, and dining experiences that are both grandiose and intimate.