Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 10 Castles in Scotland’s Highlands That Make History Look Good
Every time I watch a period film, I can’t help but wonder–are those castles real, or just elaborate sets? Because honestly, it blows my mind that so many of them actually exist.
And not just the big-name ones—even the so-called “small” castles look like something out of a fantasy novel. Think stone walls, creaky wooden gates, towers or rivers wrapping around them…it’s all a bit unreal.
But then you look at Scotland, and bam—there’s a whole list just waiting for you. So, no need to sweet-talk the guard at the gate—here’s a roundup of the best castles to visit in the Scottish Highlands.
Dunrobin Castle
Media from dunrobin_castle
Address: Golspie KW10 6SF
Contact details: +44 1408 633177
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Website
Dunrobin Castle is the largest castle in the northern Highlands and the ancestral home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, with over 180 rooms. It looks like something straight out of a fantasy, with pointed spires and elegant gardens overlooking the North Sea.
As you step inside, you’ll find luxurious drawing rooms, a library with over 10,000 books, and period furnishings. The museum in the old summerhouse features Pictish stones and hunting trophies—some a bit gruesome (but historically fascinating).
But one of the main attractions is the daily falconry display, set in the formal gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Plus, Dunrobin is one of the few Highland castles that combine striking architecture, lavish interiors, landscaped gardens, and wildlife demonstrations.
Pro tip:
Try to catch the morning falconry show (usually around 11:30 AM) before crowds arrive and while the lighting in the garden is best for photos. If you’re taking the train, the Golspie station is just a 10-minute walk to the castle gates.
Urquhart Castle
Media from castlesofscotland
Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness
Contact details: +44 1456 450551
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 8:15 PM
Website
Perched on the banks of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is like a gateway to one of the most iconic views you’ll get in Scotland. We like how the partially ruined medieval fortress is packed with aura and history—it looks jaw-dropping on camera.
The reason for this ruin-look is that it was blown up in the 17th century to prevent further military use. It’s a castle that was caught in centuries of conflict, and it still tells the tale, especially the Grant Tower, where you can climb up for the best panoramic shots.
We suggest you start at the visitor centre, which has a short but impactful video that ends with a curtain dramatically opening onto the real castle view—the production usually leaves a good impression on first-timers. Plus, there’s a cafe, gift shop, and informative displays for context.
Pro tip:
Consider visiting first thing in the morning or late afternoon to beat the coach tour crowds and enjoy quieter castle grounds. Also, bring a windbreaker or light rain jacket even in the summer, since the weather changes quickly on the loch.
Eilean Donan Castle
Media from nnapples_
Address: Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh
Contact details: +44 1599 555202
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Website
Eilean Donan Castle sits on a tiny tidal island where three sea lochs meet, making it picture-perfect from every angle. The cinematic feel it has as it’s connected to the mainland by a stone footbridge, it’s a popular sight in the Highlands and often in films, postcards, and guides.
And when we say cinematic and popular, it was even featured in movies like Highlander, The World Is Not Enough, and Maid of Honour, which can be a place for film junkies, too.
Not to mention, the surrounding mountains, sea lochs, and castle silhouette make it a top spot for both amateur photographers and drone operators (you need permission to use a drone on-site).
Pro tip:
To avoid the crowd and get a good solo shot, go just before closing time in the summer (around 4:30–5 PM). There’s also a free viewpoint across the water just off the main road before you reach the car park—great for wide shots without fees.
Dunvegan Castle
Media from dunvegancastle
Address: MacLeod Estate, Dunvegan House, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
Contact details: +44 1470 521206
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Website
What’s cool about Dunvegan Castle is that it’s been home to the chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years, and it’s still lived in today, making it Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castle. So, it combines medieval foundations with later additions, giving it a layered, lived-in feel.
You can expect to see family treasures like the Fairy Flag and other relics tied to Highland Folklore. The castle sits above the sea, with gardens and woodland walks that lead to waterfalls, walled gardens, and sea views.
It’s also worth noting that from the base of the castle, you can take a short boat ride to nearby seal colonies lounging on the rocks. It’s a fun bonus for families or nature lovers—getting there early in the morning is recommended.
Pro tip:
It’s a good idea to buy tickets online in advance to skip queues and get current opening hours, especially during Skye’s tourist months.
Cawdor Castle
Media from cawdor_castle
Address: B9090, Cawdor, Nairn
Contact details: +44 1667 404401
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Website
Cawdor Castle is closely linked to Macbeth and is often assumed to be the home of the tragic Thane—but then again, the connection is more poetic than factual. You see, the castle was built in the 15th century, long after Macbeth’s time.
Here’s a fun fact: the entire structure is unusually built around a living holly tree—supposedly the spot chosen by a donkey laden with gold. You can still see the remains of the tree in the dungeon-like basement, adding a layer of legend to the experience.
As for the interiors, you’ll find a blend of aristocratic charm and warmth with tapestries, fine furniture, and family portraits. And when you go outside, you can wander and explore three distinct gardens, such as the Walled Garden, Flower Garden, and Wild Garden.
Pro tip:
If you don’t have a date in mind yet, consider visiting in early summer (June) when the gardens are in full bloom and crowds are lighter than peak July-August. Be sure to walk the nature trail through the Big Wood just outside the garden.
Brodie Castle
Media from brodiecastlents
Address: Brodie, Forres
Contact details: +44 1309 641700
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM
Website
If you walk up to Brodie Castle, you’d think someone still lives there or is still a fully functioning building. This was home to the Brodie family for over 400 years, filled with quirky antiques, painted ceilings, and an impressive art collection, like the Dutch Old Masters.
Our favourite part is when the grounds come alive with thousands of daffodils; probably one of the best places to be in Scotland for that early spring burst of colour. We also like how the estate is quiet and wooded, with a pond, nature trails, and a peaceful atmosphere.
And if you’re with your family, there’s a play area for kids, a wee cafe for snacks, and guided tours that bring the castle’s story to life. Though it’s not one of the “big name” castles, that’s exactly what makes it feel special.
Pro tip:
If you’re a fan of quieter visits, swing by after 3 PM since most of the tour groups are gone by then, and you’ll get the place nearly to yourself. Also, stop into nearby Logie Steading (15 mins away) for local crafts, lunch, or a riverside walk.
Inverness Castle
Media from scotlandhistories
Address: Castle, Inverness
Contact details: [email protected]
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Website
Inverness Castle is located right in the heart of the Highlands’ capital, perched above the River Ness, so you won’t miss it if you’re in town. While the current red sandstone structure dates from the 19th century, this site has seen fortifications for centuries.
Just a heads-up, though; it’s not a full-blown historic castle tour yet, but it’ll have its own castle experience soon (renovation work is ongoing). But for now, the castle viewpoint offers stunning views over Inverness, the river, and the surrounding Highlands.
That said, the riverside path below is ideal for a slow stroll with cafes, shops, and green spaces nearby. And it’s one of the few Highland castles you can enjoy without a car.
Pro tip:
For a unique angle, head across the Greig Street Bridge for one of the best skyline views of the castle with the river in the foreground—great for quick, striking photos.
Castle of Mey
Media from castleofmey
Address: Mey, Thurso
Contact details: +44 1847 851473
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 11 AM – 3 PM
Website
Castle of Mey is the Queen Mother’s remote royal retreat, which makes sense since it’s tucked away on the windswept north coast of Caithness. She restored it in the 1950s after finding it in a near-derelict state, and you can still feel her personal touch in the cosy rooms and elegant decor.
And since it was a retreat home, it didn’t feel like a showpiece, like a grand palace. You can learn more from guided tours—they’re relaxed, filled with personal stories, old photographs, and charming domestic details, like the Queen Mother’s well-used Aga stove.
We also have to highlight the views over the Pentland Firth, and you can see all the way to Orkney on a clear day. In contrast, the walled garden is more intimate and lively during the summer.
Pro tip:
Plan your visit around lunchtime and eat at the on-site tearoom, which serves hearty, locally sourced meals with views across the open fields. And if you’re there in late August or September, check out the Highland Games Pavilion nearby.
Armadale Castle
Media from armadalecastleskye
Address: Armadale Sleat, Isle of Skye
Contact details: +44 1471 844305
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Website
Armadale Castle might not be fully standing, but the crumbling walls and ivy-covered stones are full of atmosphere. It’s set in the middle of peaceful gardens and feels more like a quiet escape than a tourist attraction.
On that note, you can explore the grounds and wander, going through woodland paths, flowering shrubs, and views over the water to the mainland.
This was also once the seat of Clan Donald, and the museum next to the ruins does a great job telling their story. You’ll hear lots of interesting stuff about the Lords of the Isles, local history, and how the clan shaped part of Scotland.
Pro tip:
If you’re arriving by ferry, skip the car and just walk up from the terminal—it’s an easy 10-minute stroll through a pretty bit of countryside. And if you want to time your visit when everything’s in bloom, May and early June are the best months.
Castle Leod
Media from castleleod
Address: Castle Leod, Strathpeffer
Contact details: [email protected]
Opening hours: 2025 dates: 2 PM – 6 PM
Website
If you’re an Outlander fan, this one’s for you—Castle Leod is said to be the inspiration for Castle Leoch in the series. But even if you’ve never seen the show, this place has serious old-world charm and feels more like a home than a museum.
The homey vibe is no surprise since the Mackenzie family still owns and lives in the castle, giving it that lived-in, authentic feel. Tours are guided by people who know the family history inside out, so expect personal stories, original furniture, and plenty of Highland lore.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to double-check the official website or local listings for open days, as they’re limited and not always listed on big travel sites. And while you’re there, take time to explore Stratpeffer Village, a charming Victorian spa town.
