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Scotland's Top 40 Castles & Abbeys
Aberdour Castle
Aberdour
Fife
A 14th Century Castle built by the Douglas family. The gallery on the first floor gives an idea of how it was furnished at the time. The castle has a delightful walled garden and dovecote.
Price: Adult £1.80 Child 75p
Hours: Open all year
Details: 01383 860519
Abroath Abbey
Abroath
In 1320 Scotland's nobles swore their independence from England in the famous "Declaration of Abroath" in this abbey. It was founded in 1178 by King William the Lion and built in the honour of the Archbishop of Canterbury. When the Stone of Destiny was stolen from Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day in 1950 it mysteriously appeared here while the hunt for it was at its peak.
Price: Adult £1.80 Child 75p
Hours: Apr - Sep Mon - Sat 9:30 - 18:30; Oct Mar Mon - Sat 9:30 - 16:30
Details: 01241 878 756
Ballindalloch Castle
Banffshire
AB37 9AX
Ballindalloch is one of the most beautiful and romantic castles in Scotland. It lies in the heart of whisky country with the distilleries of Glenfiddich, Glenfarclas, and Glenlivet nearby. The setting is magnificent; surrounded by majestic hills, the tumbling waters of the rivers Spey and Avon flow through the grounds. First and foremost Ballindalloch is a much loved family home and one of the very few privately owned castles to be lived in continuously by its original family, the Macpherson Grants, since 1546. It exemplifies the transition from the stark Tower house, necessary for survival in 16th Century Scotland, to the elegant comfortable country house so beloved of Victorians in the Highlands.
Price:
Hours: Good Friday - 30th Sep 10:00 - 17:00
Details: 01807 500 206
Balmoral Castle
Aberdeenshire
The Royal Family still regularly visit this Castle as they have done since Prince Albert bought it in 1852. He also designed the present castle as a gift for his wife Queen Victoria. The present castle was finished in 1855. The only room that visitors can see is the grand ballroom where they can see paintings from the royal collection, royal tartans, silverware and porcelain. In the Carriage Hall there is a display of the royal carriages, wildlife and a collection of commemorative china.
Price:
Hours: Apr - May Mon - Sat 10:00 - 17:00; July & Aug 10:00 17:00
Details: 01463 715 757
Bothwell Castle
Uddingston
Off the B7071
The largest and finest 13th Century stone castle in Scotland which was much fought over during the Wars of Independence. Part of the original circular keep survives. In a beautiful setting overlooking the River Clyde.
Price: Adult £1.80 Child 75p Reduced £1.30
Hours: Open all Year (winter: closed Thursday afternoons and Fridays)
Details: 01698 816 896
Brodick Castle, Gardens & Country Park
Brodick
Isle of Arran
This is a castle you will never forget. The tall stately building beckons you with the glow of its warm red sandstone. The setting is superb - fronted by a magnificent bay, surrounded by gardens and overlooked by the majestic mountains of Goatfell. The castle was built on the site of a Viking fortress and part of it dates from the 13th Century. The contents are magnificent and include superb silver, porcelain, paintings and sporting trophies. The woodland garden ranks as one of Europe's finest.
Hours: 1st Apr - 30th June & 1 Sep - 31 Oct 11:00 - 16:30 (last admission 16:00); 1st July - 31st Aug 11:00 - 17:00 (last admission 16:30)
Details: 01475 650 100
Caerlaverock Castle
Dumfries and Galloway
This is what everyone imagines a medieval fortress to look like, surrounded by water and looking menacing. There is an adventure playground, a model siege engine and a nature trail. In July and August there are archaeological digs.
Price: Adult £2.30 Child £1.00
Details: 01387 770 244
Craignethan Castle
5.5m WNW of Lanark off the A72
In a picturesque setting overlooking the River Nethan, the oldest part of the castle is a tower house built by Sir James Hamilton of Finnart in the 16th Century. The castle's extensive defences include a caponier - a stone vaulted artillery chamber - unique in Britain.
Price: Adult £1.80 Child 75p Reduced £1.30
Hours: Open all summer seven days a week
Details: 01555 860 364
Culzean Castle & Country Park
Maybole
Ayrshire
Perched high on the edge of a cliff overlooking Arran and Ailsa Craig, Culzean Castle is one of the most impressive stately homes in Scotland. Set in a 582 - Acre Park, it was designed by master architect Robert Adam to replace the original 16th Century castle. The present structure was completed 1777 - 1792. The most influential architect of the time, Adam's classical embellishment with which he decorated his ceilings and fireplaces is present throughout. The Oval Staircase, one of his greatest achievements, is particularly striking. Every room in the house is palatially decorated using the finest materials. One bedroom is said to be haunted by a lady in green.
Price: Castle, Adult £6.50 Child £4.40 Family £17.00; Park only £3.50, £2.40
Hours: Castle, Apr - Oct 10:30 - 17:30; Park open all year 9:30 - sunset
Details: 01655 760 274
Dean Castle Country Park
Dean Road
Kilmarnock
KA3 1XB
The Keep, built about 1350 with a dungeon, great hall and battlements, was built as a strong defensive tower. The Palace, built about 1465, was altogether more luxurious. Both are fine examples of Scottish castles of their period. The castle features arms and armour, tapestries and musical instruments. The Country Park surrounding the castle is perfect for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the nature trail and woodland paths. There is a Ranger service that organises events every weekend from March to September, so if you want to learn a little about the wildlife in the park there will be people there to help.
Hours: Dean Castle, Easter Weekend - End Oct 12:00 - 17:00 daily; End Oct - Easter Weekend 12:00 - 16:00 weekends only, Visitor Centre and Tea-room, Summer 11:00 - 17:00; Winter 11:00 - 16:00
Details: 01563 522 702 or 574 916
Dumbarton Castle
Dumbarton
Dunbartonshire
Set in the ancient capital of Strathclyde, this is the site where Mary Queen of Scots sailed to France as a child in 1548. The castle is spectacularly set on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde. There are also displays in the Governor's House.
Price: Adult £1.80 Child 75p
Hours: Open all year, winter: closed Thursday afternoons and Fridays
Details: 01389 732 167
Dundrennan Abbey
Kirkcudbright
Dumfries & Galloway
This abbey was built in the 12th Century in a remote area of Kirkcudbright. It is where Mary Queen of Scots spent her last night in Scotland before traveling to England for execution.
Price: Adult £1.50 Child 75p
Hours: Open all summer and weekends in winter
Details: 01557 500 262
Dunfermline Abbey & Palace
Dunfermline
The birthplace of Charles I, who was the last monarch born in Scotland, was founded by Queen Margaret in the 11th Century. This is also the burial ground where Robert the Bruce was laid to rest. Most of the abbey is now in ruins and has been swallowed up by the parish church, still standing is a Norman nave and a guest house.
Price: Adults £1.80 Child 75p
Hours: Apr - Sep Mon - Sat 9:30 - 18:30; Sunday 14:00 - 18:30; Oct - Mar Mon - Sat 9:30 - 18:30 Sunday 14:00 - 16:30
Details: 01383 739 026
Dunnottar Castle
One mile south of Stonehaven
Aberdeenshire
Sir William Keith, the Great Marischal of Scotland, built this castle in 1392. It sits on a cliff top overlooking the North Sea. One of the areas that intrigues visitors is the Whigs Vault Dungeons where, in 1685, 167 Covenanters died. Other areas of interest includes a tower, a gatehouse, the chapel and the priest house. The Scottish Crown Jewels were hidden here from Oliver Cromwell's Roundhead's as. The castle was also used as a location for Zeffirelli's 'Hamlet' starring Mel Gibson.
Price: £3.00
Hours: Easter - October Mon - Sat 9:00 - Sunset
Details: 01569 762 173
Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel
North of Oban
This very fine 13th Century castle is set on a rock with a great curtain wall. Close to the building is the remains of a chapel with beautiful architectural detail. The history of the castle stretches from the Wars of Independence to the 1745 Rising.
Price: Adult £1.80 Child 75p
Hours: Open all year, winter: closed Thursday afternoons and Fridays
Details: 01631 562 465
Edinburgh Castle
High Street
Edinburgh
When people think of Edinburgh they immediately think of The Castle, towering above Edinburgh atop an extinct volcano with stunning views of the New Town and the Firth of Forth. It is believed that the building dates back to the Bronze Age, but only really began to take shape in the 11th Century when Malcom III and Queen Margaret took up residence there. The Queen's private chapel, a tiny Norman Building, still stands nearly 900 years after it was built. The building was often attacked by English invaders and fell into enemy hands. The last time it was captured was in 1640 by Oliver Cromwell's Roundheads, after which it was used as a prison and later a military garrison, which it still is to this day. Displayed at the castle is the Stone of Destiny, the ancient coronation stone of Scottish Kings, which was returned to Scotland in 1997 after an absence of seven centuries. In August of every year the Military Tattoo is held where there is a lively programme of music, marching and historical re-enactments. If you are around the castle at 1pm you may think that the castle is, once again under siege, but don't worry, it is just the world famous 'one o'clock gun' being fired.
Price: Adult £6.50 Child £2.00
Hours: Apr - Sep 9:30 - 18:00; Oct - Mar 9:30 - 17:00
Details: 0131 668 8800
Eilean Donan Castle
Dornie
Highlands
 Eilean Donan Castle is possibly one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Built in 1220 by Alexander II as a defence against the Vikings, the castle was to later become the stronghold of the Mackenzies of Kintail, the Earls of Seaforth. Located on the banks of Loch Duich in Wester Ross it is almost impossible to find a word to describe its beauty.
Price: Adult £3.75 Child £2.75 Family £9.00
Hours: Apr - 1st Nov 10:00 - 18:00
Details: 01599 555 202
Fyvie Castle
Turriff
Aberdeenshire
AB53 8JS
One of the grandest examples of Scottish baronial architecture dating from the 13th Century. Five towers enshrine five centuries of history, each being named after one of the five families who have owned the castle. See the finest great wheel stair in Scotland, and the arms, armour and 17th Century tapestries.
Price: Adult £4.40 Child £2.90 Family £13.50
Hours: 1st May - 30th June 13:30 - 17:30; 1st July - 31st Aug 11:00 - 17:30; 1st Sep - 3rd Oct 13:30 - 17:30; Weekends in Oct 13:30 - 17:30
Details: 01651 891 266
Glasgow Cathedral
Castle Street
Glasgow
G4
The first stone built Glasgow Cathedral was dedicated in the presence of King David I on 1136. That building was destroyed by a fire and was consecrated in 1197. One of the most magnificent buildings of medieval Scotland, it is a rare example of a complete pre-Reformation Scottish cathedral. The lighting system reveals much of the medieval splendour.
Price: Admission free
Hours: Oct - Mar weekdays 9:30 - 13:00, 14:00 - 16:00. Sun 14:00 - 16:00 Apr - Sep 9:30 - 13:00, 14:00 - 18:00, Service every Sunday 11:00 and 18:30, daily prayers Mon - Sat 12:00
Details: 0141 552 6891
Kelburn Castle & Country Centre
Fairlie
Ayrshire
KA29 0BE
The family home of the Earls of Glasgow, Kelburn Castle has long been an inspiration for adults and a paradise for children. Still lived in by the present Earl and his family, Kelburn Castle, dating back to the 13th Century, provides an impressive background to exotic gardens, famous trees and many features of historic interest. Kelburn's romantic Glen, regarded as one of Scotland's most beautiful natural woodlands has a network of pathways and footbridges, leading you upwards past waterfalls and deep gorges to spectacular views over the island of the Firth of Clyde.
Price: Adult £4.50 Child £3.00 Family £13:00
Hours: 27th Mar - Oct 10:00 - 18:00, Secret Forest open from noon daily; Rest of the year 11:00 - 17:00
Details: 01475 568 685
Kellie Castle & Garden
Pittenweem
Fife
KY10 2RF
This very fine example of domestic architecture in Lowland Scotland dates from the 14th Century and was sympathetically restored by the Lorimer family in the late 19th Century. The castle contains magnificent plaster ceilings, a mural by Phoebe Anna Traquair, painted paneling and fine furniture designed by Sir Robert Lorimer. Of particular interest are the Victorian nursery and the old kitchen. The late Victorian features a fine collection of old-fashioned roses and herbaceous plants which are cultivated organically.
Hours: Good Friday - Easter Monday & 1st May - 3rd Oct 13:00 - 17:00
Details: 01333 720 271
Lochleven Castle
On an island in Loch Leven
Get ferry from Kinross
Perthshire
This 14th Century tower was used to imprison Mary Queen of Scots before her dramatic escape in May 1568. During the first War of Independence it was held by the English, stormed by Wallace and visited by Bruce.
Price: Adult £2.80 Child £1.00
Hours: Summer only
Details: 0388 040483
Melrose Abbey
Melrose
The Borders
At one point this was probably one of the richest Abbeys in Scotland. Built in the 12th Century this Abbey has endured an attack by an invading English army in 1385 and was rebuilt in the 15th Century by Robert the Bruce.His heart was reburied in the grounds just recently after it was recovered in its original lead container. In the 19th Century Sir Walter Scott repaired some more of the Abbey including many on the gargoyles which have among them a pig playing the bagpipes.
Price: Adult £2.80 Child £1.00
Hours: Apr - Sep Mon - Sat 9:30 - 18:30, Sun 14:00 - 18:30; Oct - Mar Mon - Sat 9:30 - 16:30, Sun 14:00 - 16:30
Details: 01896 822 562
St Andrews Castle
St Andrews
Fife
The castle of the Archbishop of St Andrews. See the fascinating mine and counter-mine, rare examples of medieval siege techniques, and the bottle dungeon where death was the only escape. A fascinating exhibition in the visitor centre brings the history of the castle to life.
Price: Adult £2.30 Child £1.00
Hours: Open all year
Details: 01334 477 196
Stirling Castle
Stirling
The mighty Royal Castle of Stirling towers above some of the most important battlefields in Scotland's history; including William Wallace's victory over the English at Stirling Bridge in 1297 and Robert the Bruce's defeat of the same foe at Bannockburn in 1314. Time and time again Stirling Castle was besieged, relieved and then besieged once again during the Scottish struggle against domination by the English. Stirling Castle is closely bound with the life of the ill-fated Mary Queen of Scots. She spent her childhood in the castle. Mary's coronation took place in the Chapel Royal in 1543 and she narrowly escaped death by fire there in 1561.
Price: Adult £5.00 Child £1.50
Hours: Apr - Sep 9:30 - 18:00; Oct - Mar 9:30 - 17:00
Details: 01786 450 000
Sweetheart Abbey
New Abbey
South of Dumfries
The magnificent remains of a late 13th and early 14th Century red sandstone Cistercian abbey founded by Deorgilla, Lady of Galloway, in memory of her husband John Balliol. An heiress of the Royal house in Dunkeld, Devorgilla is buried in the presbytery in a casket which also contains her husband's embalmed heart which she carried around with her for 22 years until her own death in 1290. Apart from the Abbey, the most prominent feature is a well-preserved precinct wall.
Price: Adult £1.20 Child 50p
Hours: Apr - Sep, Mon - Sat 9:30 - 18:30, Sun 14:00 - 18:30; Oct - Mar Mon - Wed & Sat 9:30 - 16:30, Thur 9:30 - 13:00, Sun 14:00 - 16:30
Details: 01387 850 397
Thirlestane Castle
By Lauder
Scottish Borders
Just outside Lauder, on the banks of the Leader, is Thirlestane Castle, seat of the Earl of Lauderdale. Thirlestane Castle started life as a defensive fort built by the English army during the War of Rough Wooing in 1548. Two years later, in 1550, Lauder Fort was surrendered during the Peace Treaty of Bologne and was dismantled. The present castle dates from the 1590s, and the magnificent main rooms have beautiful plasterwork ceilings. The old nurseries hold a collection of historic toys.
Price: Castle and Grounds £4.50 Family £11.00 Grounds only £1.50
Hours: Good Friday - Easter Monday & 1st May - 31st Oct 11:00 - 17:00 (last admission 16:15)
Details: 01578 722 430
Urquhart Castle
On Loch Ness
Highlands
Set near the banks of Loch Ness this remains as one of the largest castles in Scotland. From here you will be able to see some of the most magnificent views of the Loch.
Price: Adult £3.50 Child £1.00
Details: 01456 450 551
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