How many castles in Scotland ?

How Many Castles Are There in Scotland?

Scotland is a land steeped in history, legend, and dramatic landscapes—and nothing captures the imagination quite like its castles. But how many castles are there in Scotland? The answer may surprise you. There are over 1,000 castles spread across the country, each with its own unique story, architectural style, and historical significance.

These castles range from grand, well-preserved fortresses such as Stirling Castle to remote and haunting ruins like Kilchurn Castle, perched beside the still waters of Loch Awe. Some castles are iconic tourist attractions, while others lie hidden in the countryside, their ancient stones weathered by time and tales.

The Four Castles Tour offered by Private Tours Edinburgh has become a highly sought-after experience, especially among visitors from the United States, and for good reason. This immersive journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic castles appeals to American tourists due to a combination of historical intrigue, cultural fascination, cinematic allure, scenic beauty, and personalized service. Here’s an in-depth exploration of why this tour captures the imaginations of so many visitors from across the Atlantic.

Among the most visited is Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most strategically important strongholds. It was once the seat of the Stewart monarchs and the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots. With its towering walls, lavish Renaissance palace designed by King James V , and sweeping views across the surrounding landscape, it offers a powerful glimpse into Scotland’s royal past.

Equally fascinating is Midhope Castle, better known to many fans as Lallybroch from the hit TV series Outlander. While not open to the public inside, the exterior remains a hugely popular spot for photography and pilgrimages by fans of the show.

Book your  Four Castles Tour from Private Tours Edinburgh online or phone / Whatsapp +447305294773

For those wanting to explore the diversity of Scotland’s castles in a single day, our Four Castles Tour is the perfect way to experience the grandeur, mystery, and history of these iconic landmarks. The tour includes visits to Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Doune Castle, and Drummond Castle Gardens—all within easy reach of Edinburgh.

Stirling Castle is the centrepiece of the tour. Built and expanded by the Stewart kings, it features the Royal Palace, where Mary, Queen of Scots, spent much of her early life. The castle has been at the heart of Scottish history for centuries, playing a crucial role in wars of independence and royal intrigue.

Next on the journey is Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. Though now a ruin, its majestic lakeside setting and towering architecture evoke the grandeur of its former glory as a royal residence. Its great hall and ornate windows offer a romantic look into the Renaissance era.

Doune Castle is a favourite among film and TV fans. Its dramatic structure has starred in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, and Outlander. The castle’s striking tower and atmospheric rooms transport visitors to a time of knights, battles, and intrigue.

Book your  Four Castles Tour from Private Tours Edinburgh online or phone / Whatsapp +447305294773

The tour finishes at Drummond Castle Gardens, among the finest formal gardens in Europe. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the gardens are a masterpiece of design and symmetry, famously used in Outlander as the gardens of Versailles.

With so many castles to explore, a guided tour offers the perfect blend of storytelling, history, and photography opportunities. Whether you’re fascinated by royalty, film locations, or ancient architecture, this tour offers an unforgettable day out in the heart of Scotland’s castle country.

Join us for a journey through time, and let Scotland’s castles tell their stories.

Our Four castles tour is listed on Visitscotland