castle ruins to visit

26 Must-See Castles and Castle Ruins in Scotland

Hey castle lovers! Scotland is calling. Check out this list of the absolute must-see castles and castle ruins in Scotland.

The popularity of Scotland in the travel world has grown exponentially in recent years. Adventurers are drawn to its misty landscapes, friendly population, and torrid history. Oh! Then, there’s the castles! The number of castles and castle ruins in Scotland is only rivaled by the colossal number of sheep. For Highlands locals, they are the backdrop of the everyday panorama, but for visitors, clifftop castles, surrounded by sweeping meadows and crashing waves, stir up a wonder within us. Americans, especially, are obsessed with anything ancient. It’s novel to us. If you are one of those travelers who are obsessed with Medieval architecture or fancy yourself a princess, then add these iconic Scottish castles to your travel plan!

Explore Scotland With Let’s Roam

Scotland’s historic capital, Edinburgh, is a marvelous city full of stunning architecture, royal castles, talented street artists, lavish pubs, and ample green space. Get to know one of the most beautiful cities on earth on our “ Edinburgh Scavenger Hunt: A Fairytale Capital .” Stroll the Royal Mile, see Scottish Parliament, and marvel at the mammoth Balmoral Hotel on a fun-filled adventure full of trivia and photo challenges!

The Best Castle Ruins in Scotland

With over 2,000 castles and ruins in Scotland, you could spend months crawling over rock crumbles and through fallen arches. If you add in the abandoned abbeys, war-torn cathedrals, and faltering tower houses, you’ve now got a whole lifetime of exploring to do. If the walls of these structures could talk, they would certainly regale us all with tales of war, drunken brawls, and celebratory cèilidhs held within their towering halls. While we certainly can’t list them all, here are a few of the must-sees ruins… in no particular order. Cue the bagpipes!

1. Edinburgh Castle

Dominating the city from its perch atop an ancient volcano, Edinburgh Castle has served in various roles as a fortress, royal palace, and military barracks since the 12th century. Historians state that the castle is one of the most battled over in the world. Among its many skirmishes were the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century, and the final siege—the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

Since the 17th century, the castle has primarily served as a military barrack and a tourist attraction. It hosts the annual Edinburgh Military Tatoo, which brings in military marching bands from all over the world! The castle also houses the National War Museum and Scottish crown jewels, 12th-century Margaret’s Chapel, and the coronation stone… aka The Stone of Destiny . This stone was the coronation stone of Scottish kings for centuries. It was stolen by Edward I in 1296 and became part of the coronation chair of English and UK monarchs as well. After more stealing and returning, it has now officially been returned to the Scottish people and is on display in the throne room. Tourists also enjoy a ceremonial firing of the upper wall cannon at 1:00 p.m. daily.

2. Balmoral Castle

After falling in love with Scotland in the 1840s, Prince Albert and Queen Victoria purchased the property where Balmoral Castle now rests. They erected a new castle befitting the regality of 19th-century royalty. While the official Scottish royal residence is the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, royalty has long chosen to spend the majority of their days in the north at Balmoral’s stunning estate. The palace was reportedly Queen EBII’s favorite place to dwell.

The castle, gardens, and exhibitions are generally open to the public from April to July annually. Take a walk through the gardens and look for the 11 cairns built by Queen Victoria to honor members of the royal family, including the massive pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert. If you’re interested in royal residences, Balmoral is a must-visit.

3. Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is our second castle upon a volcanic hill. Due to its strategic location between the Highlands and Lowlands, it ranks right up there with Edinburgh castle as one of the most besieged fortresses, changing hands more than eight times in the 50 years of the Wars of Independence alone. It was both a fortress and home to the royal Stuart family, serving as the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and her son James VI. Stirling is featured in records as far back as 1110. The 16th-century Royal Palace was restored in 2011 to its original splendor, allowing visitors to experience it as a young Mary would have.

Stirling is one of the best castles to visit with children. They can adorn period costumes, pretend to be court members, and try out Renaissance musical instruments, too. A step inside the Great Kitchen takes you behind the scenes of the preparations for a grand palace gathering. The gardens are adorned with countless sculptures, and the Palace Vaults are full of interactive exhibits for younger visitors. If you are touring Scotland as a family, then Stirling is a must!

4. Dunnottar Castle

Perhaps the most epic of all the landscapes on the list, the ruins of Dunnottar Castle sit above a ravine on a rocky outcropping, with sheer drops into the crashing waves below. With wildflower meadows on one side and the North Sea on the other, Dunnottar is truly a sight to behold and is one of the most popular stops in Aberdeenshire. You will walk through a field of cows to get to the spot from the car park, and the whole experience is really very peaceful.

Dunnottar dates back to the 13th century and was the ancestral home of the Keith Clan, Earls of Marischal. However, the word “dun” is a Pict word, and there is evidence that Dunnottar may be the oldest Pict fortress that we know of. It was destroyed by the Vikings around 900. The stone chapel ruins on display today hale from around 1276. The castle was besieged by the forces of William Wallace in 1297 and sheltered Charles II and the Scottish crown jewels from an invasion by Oliver Cromwell’s forces in 1642. The castle is now just a shell, save the towerhouse, but its iconic history and striking position make it one of Scotland’s most revered landmarks.

5. Eilean Donan Castle

You have no doubt seen the beauty of Eilean Donan plastered all over your Instagram feed. Along with Dunnottar, it is among the most photogenic of the Scottish ruins. The little castle occupies its own tidal island at the conjunction of Loch Long and Loch Duich. A fortress has stood on the small island since at least the 13th century, though its ramifications have expanded and contracted greatly over the centuries.

The Medieval structure was destroyed during the Jacobite rebellion in 1719, but Lt. Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap purchased the island in 1911 and spent the next 20 years restoring Eilean to the latest surviving architectural plan. Most visitors check off the castle on the way to the Isle of Skye, as it lies just off the A87. If you are visiting the Scottish Highlands, photos of the Eilean Donan are an absolute must!

6. Urquhart Castle

Urquhart Castle served as the predominant fortress overlooking Loch Ness for more than 500 years. Like most major fortresses in the country, it changed hands from English to Scottish like a hot potato during the Wars of Independence. Thanks to retreating soldiers during the Jacobite Risings, the castle is now in ruins. However, you can still climb to the top of Grant Tower and take in the most marvelous view of Loch Ness, or get your binoculars and search for Nessie if you like.

A full-sized trebuchet and several artifacts, such as the 15th-century Urquhart Ewer are on display in the castle. You can also step inside the reportedly haunted prison. As one of the largest castles in the country, Urquhart has been witness to major events in Scottish history, and the town of Inverness is likely on your Scotland itinerary anyhow, so it would be a shame not to pop in!

7. Tantallon Castle

Home to the Douglas Clan, Tantallon Castle is situated just outside the seaside village of North Berwick. Tantallon is one of the last grand fortresses built in Scotland, erected by William Douglas in the mid-1300s. Subsequently, the Douglas clan split into “Black” and “Red” Douglases, and the estate fell to the “Reds.” This branch of the clan was often at odds with the crown, and therefore, the castle was besieged on several occasions by royalists.

Beaten and battered, the imposing, red-sandstone curtain wall bears the scars of her sieges, the last being the 1651 bombardment by the forces of Oliver Cromwell. Tantallon sits atop the sea bluffs overlooking Bass Rock, which is a wonderful spot to view seabirds, as a massive colony makes it home there. While visiting Tantallon, you can hit a few nearby spots like Hailes Castle, Dirleton Castle, and the ruins of St. Martin’s Kirk.

Check its website before planning a visit to Tantallon. The site has recently been closed to visitors due to safety inspections of the masonry.

8. Doune Castle

Doune Castle has a rich history, but it is rivaled by its recent prowess as a major filming location. The castle has been featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, Outlaw King , and Outlander . Not far from Stirling, the current castle dates to the 14th century and the reign of Robert Stewart, governor of Scotland, though it likely includes parts of an older fortress.

Of all the abandoned castles on the list, Doune is possibly one of the most intact. The Great Hall is quite impressive, featuring a cathedral ceiling, a musician’s gallery, and a large hearth. Visitors to the castle can also enjoy a woodland walk to a nearby Roman fort and the adorable village of Doune.

9. Glamis Castle

As far as fairytale castles go, they don’t get more dreamy than Glamis . The red brick beauty sits at the end of a long tree-lined drive, exuding regality. Glamis is the ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore, dating back to 1372, and served as inspiration for Shakespeare’s Macbeth . It was the childhood home of the Queen Mother, Elizabeth, and HRH Princess Margaret was born in the home. It is also reported to be one of the most haunted castles in the UK.

The castle offers fantastic guided tours, frequent rotating royal exhibitions, and fun craft workshops. If the weather cooperates, be sure to take a stroll through the glorious gardens. Check out the exquisite oak-carved sculptures along the Macbeth Trail!

10. Palace of Holyroodhouse

Technically, the Palace of Holyroodhouse , at the end of the Royal Mile is a current residence of the royal family. Its grand, castle-like appearance, and the presence of the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, land it on our list. The palace has a rich history, serving as home to Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and the current King Charles.

Here you can tour the state apartments, still adorned in period furnishings. Waltz through the throne room, the Grand Gallery, and the private apartments of Mary Queen of Scots. Tour the stunning gardens, overlooked by staggering Salisbury Crag, and step inside the ruins of the Abbey, once one of the grandest in the British Isles. They also have a calendar of special exhibits throughout the year that are good fun. For instance, in honor of the Queen’s Jubilee, they hosted 50’s jive night with a jazz band, dancing, and artifacts from the life of Queen Elizabeth II.

After a visit to the castle, make sure to take the hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat or Salisbury Crag. Both peaks have an astonishing view of Edinburgh on one side and the surrounding countryside on the other. It’s a wonderful hike you can take without leaving the city center.

11. Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle looks like it’s been plucked out of the French countryside and dropped in the Scottish Highlands. Dunrobin is one of the oldest continually inhabited estates in the country, home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. It’s the largest (189 rooms) and most northerly of the great Scottish houses in the Northern Highlands. The 14th-century home would have looked much more like a fort on a hill, but after centuries of upgrades and extensions, Sir Charles Barry gave the castle a major facelift in 1845, bringing in French Renaissance conical towers and elaborate gardens modeled after the Palace of Versailles.

Today, a visit to the castle treats a traveler to self-guided state room tours, a Victorian museum, and falconry exhibits on the estate. The castle has also served as a naval hospital during WWI and a boy’s boarding school during its long life, all of which guests can explore in the on-site exhibits. There is also a gift shop and lovely tea room, perfect for a romantic lunch in a fairytale castle!

12. Dunvegan Castle

While Sween Castle in Argyll is the oldest stone castle in the country, built in the 12th century, Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continually inhabited castle in Scotland, home to the MacLeod clan for 800 years. Situated on the popular tourist destination, Isle of Skye, it is a must-see.

Due to the continuous habitation, the castle is in phenomenal shape. It was last remodeled in the 1840s and features the highest quality tapestries, heirloom artwork, and artifacts detailing its interesting and long history. Not only is the castle beautiful, but with a loch in front and dense forest behind, the setting is just as impressive!

13. Blair Castle

Blair Castle is an iconic fortress located in Perthshire, Scotland. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has been expanded and renovated over the years, currently featuring stunning Scots Baronial architecture. The castle has been home to the Atholl family for 750 years and displays an impressive collection of furniture, artwork, and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the family’s history and culture.

Visitors can explore the castle’s numerous rooms, including the grand ballroom, dining room, and library, which boasts a collection of over 7,000 books. The Atholl family also has fabulous guest lodgings on their estate, so you can sleep soundly with a view of one of Scotland’s oldest and grandest castles. If empty crumbling walls don’t do it for you, then Dunvegan and Blair Castle are great options to get a feel for how life in a castle would function.

14. Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is a Scottish home that hails from the mid-18th century, constructed by Archibald Campbell, the 3rd Duke of Argyll, and has been the ancestral home of the Campbell family ever since. The castle is known for its distinctive Scottish baronial style, with a striking facade featuring turrets, battlements, and a central tower.

Visitors can explore the castle’s numerous rooms, including the state dining room, drawing room, and armory hall. In addition to the castle, guests can also explore the surrounding grounds, which include a beautiful walled garden, a woodland walk, and a small loch. The castle is also home to a gift shop, a tearoom, and a museum dedicated to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. Interested guests can also book a stalking and shooting tour on the property, just as Mary Queen of Scots did in 1562. Overall, Inveraray Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history, architecture, and culture.

15. Castle Stalker

Castle Stalker is a picturesque castle located on a small tidal island in Loch Laich, near Appin in the West Highlands. The castle dates back to the 14th century and is privately owned. It’s open to the public for guided tours during the summer months. The castle was owned by a cousin of the Stewart royal family and was used for royal hunting expeditions. The castle is also home to a collection of antique weapons and armor, which provide a fascinating insight into medieval life in Scotland.

Castle Stalker is renowned for its stunning location, and visitors can take in breathtaking views of Loch Laich and the surrounding mountains from the castle’s battlements. The castle has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Highlander .

16. Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace is a historic palace located in West Lothian, Scotland. The palace dates back to the 15th century and was once a pleasure palace and royal nursery, a favored stopping point of the Stewart monarchs, between Edinburgh Castle and Stirling. Mary Queen of Scots was born in the castle in 1542, James the V in 1512, and Princess Elizabeth I in 1596.

Due to concerns with the masonry, there are parts of the castle that are currently off-limits to guests, but visitors can also take a stroll through the palace’s beautiful gardens and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Even with these restrictions, the iconic site is worth a stop, just for its fascinating history!

17. Blackness Castle

Blackness Castle is a historic castle located on the shore of the Firth of Forth, near the village of Blackness. The castle was built in the 15th century and was originally used as a stronghold and defensive fortress. Over its long history, it has served as the homestead of the Crichton family, a royal residence, an army garrison, and a state prison. Blackness Castle is known as “the ship that never sailed” because from the sea it has the bearing of a massive ship bow. It has also been used as a filming location for numerous movies and television shows, including Outlander and Mary Queen of Scots .

18. St. Andrews Cathedral

Originally built as St. Rule’s Church around 1130, this spot in the current village of St. Andrews was a beacon for the first Augustinians to arrive in Scotland. Beginning in 1160, Bishop Arnold began construction on what would become Scotland’s grandest cathedral. Through 150 years of construction, war, and destructive storms, the cathedral persisted. It was dedicated in 1318 and became the official headquarters of the Scottish church. In 1561, after The Reformation, the church was abandoned in favor of parish churches and allowed to fall into ruins.

The great lady now lies in ruins, save a few towering edifices. Visitors can tour the accompanying cemetery, the ruined chapter house, and the cathedral museum. Pends Gate and much of the original wall also survive, and the complex has a domineering and awe-inspiring location on the sea. Just around the corner, along the coastal path, you can also snap a photo of the ruins of St. Andrew Castle.

19. Sweetheart Abbey

Coming close to St. Andrew’s cathedral in grandeur, Sweetheart Abbey was a labor of love by Lady Dervorguilla of Galloway. Built in honor of her beloved husband, Lord John Balliol in 1273. The lady, (and her husband’s embalmed heart that she carried with her for years) are now buried in the abbey cemetery.

The abbey church survives almost intact, despite falling prey to poverty and several battles throughout the years. Due to current work on the masonry, visitors can only access the mostly ruined cloisters at this time, but it’s still worth a stop and produces really beautiful photos!

20. Duart Castle

Duart Castle is the ancestral home of Clan Maclean, located on the Isle of Mull. Sitting high on a crag, jutting into the sound, Duart Castle is a commanding sight! The ancient castle was refurbished in 1911. Visitors can now tour the Great Hall, which features family portraits and coats of arms, overlooking the courtyard. A tour of Duart also includes the staterooms and a fascinating clan exhibition! The castle was featured in the Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta-Jones movie, Entrapment , and is an absolute stunner!

With walls as thick as 29 feet in some places, the 14th-century keep is still intact, and the castle overall is one of the best preserved on the list. If you want to see what real life in a Scottish estate was like, Duart is a fantastic tour. It’s beautiful and much more informative than some of the ruins on the list.

21. Kinloch Castle

Kinloch Castle  is a massive red sandstone, Edwardian mansion located on the Isle of Rum, off the west coast of Scotland. Built as a private hunting lodge for the wealthy Bullough family who owned the island, construction took place from 1897-1900. Later, the home was sold to NatureScot as a public nature preserve. The castle has since done a short stent as a hostel and hotel. Today, a few of the common rooms are available for tours, but much of the structure is wasting away. It has been on the endangered buildings list since 2004, since it technically doesn’t meet the restrictions for national protection. However, tours are still available, and the gardens and estate are stunning. There is talk of converting the castle into a luxury hotel, but time will tell. Overall, it is one of the most classically beautiful structures on the list.

22. Castle Tioram

Castle Tioram is a ruined castle on a tidal island in Loch Moidart. The castle was the ancestral home of the Clanranald family. Legend says the current castle was built in the 14th century, but this may have just been an extension of a previous 13th-century building. The castle was abandoned after the Jacobite uprising, as the family moved elsewhere.

The landscape surrounding the remaining tower and crumbling walls is stunning in that magical Scottish way, but the island is treacherous to tour. There are multiple signs warning of falling masonry, and many of the walls have crumbled into the loch. That castle can only be reached on foot during low tide, but you can get an excellent view of it, in all its grandeur from a boat or kayak tour on the loch. It’s a picturesque place, but be careful.

23. Ardvreck Castle

There honestly isn’t much left of Ardvreck Castle , but it does sit in a pretty epic spot and makes for some lovely photos. Plus, it is steeped in mystery and spook-tacular stories. The 15th-century stone edifice is said to be haunted by two ghosts, both of which died while staying at the home of the MacLeod Clan. In 1650, the Marquis of Montrose, who was fighting for the royalists, took shelter in the MacLeod home. However, the lady of the manor led him into the dungeon where she held him until Scottish authorities came to retrieve him and execute him in Edinburgh.

On top of the ghost stories, there is reportedly a mermaid that lives in the lock, and her tears are the reason for the rise and fall of the tides. The castle changed hands many times during The Rebellions, and it was abandoned when the new owners, the MacKenzies of Assynt, built their new home at Calda House.

24. New Slains Castle

Not to be confused with Slains castle, which lies just down the road, New Slains is a giant ruin that hugs the edge of the cliffs at Cruden Bay. It is not protected by the trust, and unlike so many we have seen on the list, there are no guided tours or cleaning crew. Grass grows where the stone floors once were, and the labyrinth of abandoned rooms is full of foliage.

The current castle was the property of the Earls of Errol for centuries, but was later sold and the roof was removed to avoid paying taxes. Bram Stoker is said to have based the setting for Dracula partially on the castle, and unlike the famous “Dracula’s Castle” or Bran Castle in Transylvania, Bram was actually a guest at New Slains. Fans of The Crown will recognize the edifice too, as it was a model for Castle Mey in the episode where the Queen Mother visits Scotland.

25. Huntingtower Castle

Huntingtower Castle was a residence of both the Earles of Gowrie and the Murray Clan. It was formerly known as the Place of Ruthven. The oldest parts of the current castle date back to the early 1400s. Huntingtower has been home to some pretty prestigious guests. Mary Queen of Scots and her husband Lord Darnley honeymooned in the castle, and later, James VI, Mary’s son was held prisoner here in 1582. After that inglorious behavior, the Earls of Gowrie lost the titles to their properties, including Huntingtower in 1600.

Today, the castle appears as a single building, but at one point, it was a pair of towerhouses that have been connected over the centuries, giving the structure a unique appearance. While touring the interior, keep a lookout for hidden treasure rooms behind cupboards and the lovely 16th-century painted ceilings. Huntingtower is also a fantastic place for viewing wildlife. You may find barn owls, roe deer, and hedgehogs in the fields around the mansion.

26. Hailes Castle

Hailes Castle is nestled in the River Tyne Valley and is one of the oldest stone castles in the country, dating back to the early 1200s. Originally owned by the de Gourlays, they lost the property to the Hepburns after the Wars of Independence. Like most on the list, it has been improved and expanded multiple times over the centuries.

Mary Queen of Scot’s third husband was James Hepburn, and he was likely born on the grounds. The couple also stayed in the castle on their journey to Holyroodhouse for their wedding ceremony. The marriage was quite unpopular, and Mary was forced to abdicate shortly thereafter. Hepburn fled the country, and he had to forfeit his properties into the hands of the royal family. After the invasion of Cromwell, in 1650, Hailes was abandoned as a residence.

The setting of the home is unusual as it is in a valley instead of on high ground. Considering that the whole point of a castle is the defense of the property and family, building your fortress at the bottom of a hill doesn’t afford it the greatest protection. However, the mammoth ruins perched on a grassy knoll, next to the quiet river, do exude a peacefulness that you don’t always find in a fortress.

A Ruinous Vacation

There you have it, guys. The top 26 castles and ruins in Scotland! If you have a fascination with all things old, then a trip to Scotland should be at the top of your list. It’s a stunning country with idyllic landscapes, warm locals, and a fascinating history.

Don’t stress out too much about fitting all these ruins into your itinerary, as you are going to want to return again and again. Which ruins sound interesting to you? Let us know in the comments which sites you are adding to your plans!

A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without a few days in the beautiful capital city. Check out “ The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh ” to fill your itinerary.

For the best road trip of your life, take a look at “ The 10-Day Scotland Road Trip You Absolutely Have to Try .”

Frequently Asked Questions

To explore some of the best castles and ruins, book a road trip through Scotland . Explore iconic cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow and then check out the castles in the Highlands.

There are approximately 1500 castles and ruins to explore in Scotland . Check out Dunnottar Castle’s epic cliffside setting, Duart Castle , or the French fairytale Dunrobin Castle .

Absolutely! While some like Castle Tioram and New Slains Castle are not recommended to visit any longer, you can still check out the ruins of Doune Castle , Blackness Castle , and Eilean Donan .

A road trip through the Highlands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Try exploring a few castles like Inverary Castle , Stirling Castle , or the royal residence at Balmoral Castle .

You bet! A good tour of Edinburgh includes a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle !

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13 Best Ruined Castles in Scotland

Your trip to Scotland would be in vain if you didn’t visit some magnificent castle ruins. While preserved castles have always been pleasant to the eyes, there’s something more appealing about castle ruins. 

Once a symbol of power and glory, today, they stand neglected in the dark, having failed the test of time.

With over 2000 castles dotted throughout the country, Scotland is home to some of the most ancient and enchanting castles in the world. From the well-renowned Edinburgh Castle to the lesser-known but equally fascinating St. Andrews Castle, there’s a castle for every history lover in Scotland. 

So let’s embark on a thrilling adventure through Scotland’s rich and fascinating history, as we explore the 13 best-ruined castles in Scotland.

Blackness Castle

Built in 1440 by Scotland’s Crichtons family, Blackness Castle is one of the most stunning Scottish castles. Overlooking the River Forth and situated near the Blackness Village, this castle used to serve as a port for the royal mansion and the nearby town of Linlithgow back in the Dark Ages.

From serving the purpose of a royal fortress and state prison in the 1400s to being used to hold the Covenanters and seafarers captive here during the war with Britain, the castle has had an impressive history of warfare, rises, and downfalls. Finally, the castle was taken under state preservation after World War I.

Under Sir James Hamilton of Finnart in the 16th century, one of the most technologically advanced ordnance fortifications was developed in Scotland. Further, in the 1870s, officers’ quarters were built.

In the late 1800s, significant changes were made in the castle’s structure, particularly the courtyard’s roofing was completely modified.

From 1926, a period of restoration of the castle was embarked upon, and all 19th-century additions were removed, and medieval-style was reintroduced. This resulted in losing the original look of much of the castle.

Trivia:- Blackness Castle is among those few ruins of Scotland which pride themselves on their unique appearance. The castle appears as a ship standing by the seashore, and for the same reason, it is known as “a ship that never sailed”.

Edinburgh Castle

Standing on Castle Rock, the history of this ruined castle in Scotland goes back to the 12th century. Edinburgh Castle served as a royal prison and a military garrison in the medieval ages and also preserves Scotland’s Crown Jewels. 

St. Margaret’s Chapel is a prominent tourist attraction and the castle’s oldest part. The chapel was built by King David I in memory of his mother, Queen Margaret.

The castle has a strategic military location, and likely, this was the reason the people of the Iron Age built a fort here, and ever since, the castle has grown to enormous military and royal potential.

There’s also a Scottish National War Memorial built here after World War I. The castle hosts wedding events presently at the St. Margaret’s Chapel.

The British Army still administers most of the castle; however, its task is mostly administrative. The castle also houses museums, contributing to its presentation as a tourist attraction.

You can also explore other castle ruins near Edinburgh.

Some of the best castles to stay in Scotland near Edinburgh are Craigmillar Castle , Lauriston Castle , Tantallon Castle , and Dirleton Castle .

Trivia: Edinburgh Castle is probably one of Edinburgh’s earliest human habitation sites.

Loch Leven Castle

Loch Leven Castle was probably built by Alexander III in the mid-1200s and held strategic importance during the Wars of Scottish Independence. It underwent a series of hostile encounters between the English and Sir John Comyn IV.

In the 1950s, Queen Mary of Scots was held captive in the castle after losing against the Scottish lords in the Battle of Carberry Hill. She was said to have given birth to two children during the capture. Not much about the children is known, but many speculate that they died and were buried on the island. The Queen made a narrow escape from the castle and never visited it again.

Finally, after arriving at more pleasant times, the castle began to be used as a prison. Presently, the castle is under the preservation of the Historic Environment Scotland and can be visited during the summer.

Trivia:- Rumours say that Queen Mary’s ghost haunts the castle. The spirit apparently mourns the death of her two children and waits for them to come back to life.

Dunnottar Castle

“Once seen, never forgotten” is what the tagline on its official website reads. Precisely so, Dunnottar Castle is one of the oldest and most famous castles in Scotland. It is located along Scotland’s northeastern shores. 

In the 5th century, St. Ninian built a church here, one of the earliest Christian sites in the Pictish Kingdom. The castle was invaded by the Vikings and witnessed several conflicts between the English and the Scots. Charles II also stayed here when he was attempting to seize the Crown from the Parliament.

After being crowned, Oliver Cromwell captured Edinburgh, and so the Honours of Scotland which included the court crown and some other valuables were sent to the Dunnottar for protection.

Today, most parts of the castle stand devastated except the tower house and a redeveloped drawing room, among others. However, the castle is most worth-the-visit for peaceful walks along the cliffs.

Trivia:- Benholm’s Lodging, a castle gatehouse, was cut out of the cliff’s rocks.

Slains Castle

Situated near Cruden Bay, Slains Castle is one of the most visited castles in Scotland. It was built by Francis Hay, Earl of Erroll, in the late 1600s. 

However, in the early 1900s, the Hays saw financial misery and sold the castle to Sir John Ellerman who demolished quite many parts of the castle. 

By 1925 the roof had been removed. In the 1980s, an idea was brought up to transform the castle into a tourist stay spot. The plan, however, remains neglected. The Castle could have become one of the most exciting Scotland Castles to stay in.

Initially called Bowness Castle, the site is listed as a Category B building by Historic Environment Scotland. 

Enriched with intricate masonry, the castle has a classy Gothic appearance.

Trivia:- The castle is well-known to be used as an inspiration by Bram Stoker for his popular novel, Count Dracula (1897).

Huntly Castle

Built by the Earl of Fife, Duncan II, in the late 1100s, has seen many transformations since then. This Scottish castle ruin started as a motte construction with an artificial mound but in the later medieval ages, the castle served as a tower house.

In the 1500s, many modifications were made. For instance, the castle in the southern region constructed into a Palace was planned to replace the Tower House as a residence.

The 1600s saw the castle building into a splendid palace, but the civil war following the tranquillity turned the castle into a ruin. 

George Gordon, second Marquis of Huntly, undertook the final reformation of the castle. His death, however, left the task unfinished, and the castle was then, in 1923, put into state preservation.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle’s earliest records go back to as early as around 1110, when Alexander I mentioned a chapel there. The castle stands by the River Forth on a rocky volcanic hill. It can be spotted in all directions to quite a lot of distance. 

Stirling Castle was a preferred choice of the Stewarts for holding huge celebrations in the castle. A key attraction of the castle is The Palace which was revamped in 2011. The plan was to make it look exactly how it did in the mid-16th century when it was built by James V.

The Great Hall and the Royal Chapel, James VI rebuilt the latter of which in the 1600s, and the King’s Old Building are worth a visit here. The castle is located between the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland. Thus, the castle is often called the ”brooch” as it connects the two parts of Scotland.

Trivia:- Almost all Scottish Monarchs have lived in the castle, coronated, or died here.

Ellon Castle Gardens

Situated in the town of Ellon in Aberdeenshire, Ellon Castle Gardens are a part of Ardigth Castle’s ruins. The motte of the castle dates back to the 13th century. It was a chief site for Alexander Comyn to carry out legal decisions.

The gardens consist of an outstanding sundial and the English yews, which are 500 years old. The gardens are presently managed by the Ellon Castle Gardens Trust. Plans are to develop the site into a tourism centre.

Trivia:- The English yew trees of the castle are considered to be the finest collection in the United Kingdom.

Tolquhon Castle

Built-in the 1580s, Tolquhon Castle was initially a tower. 

It is also referred to as “the most characteristic château of the Scots Renaissance”.

Sir William Forbes further brought changes to the site in the 16th century. A luxurious house, storage facilities, gallery, and servants’ quarters were added.

Tolquhon Castle was later sold to the Earl of Aberdeen to be used as a farmhouse, and by the 1900s, it was left neglected into a ruin. 

Historic Scotland now administers it.

Trivia:- There’s a hide-out place on the castle’s second floor where prized possessions were kept safely.

Kildrummy Castle

Kildrummy Castle is a 13th-century ruin situated in Aberdeenshire. The castle was built by Gilbert de Moravia and is in the shape of a shield with many towers alongside it. The castle played a significant role in the Wars of Independence of the 1400s and the 1715 Jacobite Rising.

The castle also possessed the Snow Tower, which had a French style of architecture. In 1925, much evidence of battles, along with embellished stone flooring, was unearthed.

Kildrummy Castle is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and is open to tourists for visits.

Trivia:- In 1303, Edward I of England visited the castle with the builder of his magnificent North Wales castle, Master James. The ground plan of the two buildings is very similar, so it can be said that the construction of the gatehouse was carried out by Edward.

St. Andrews Castle

Built in the 13th Century, St. Andrews Castle is one of Scotland’s most beautiful ruined castles. Located on a headland and towers over the North Sea, the castle underwent many destructions and resurrections during the Scottish Wars of Independence as the English, and the Scots took turns controlling it.

The castle’s dungeon also had many religious reformers captive; as John Knox rightly puts ‘Many of God’s Children were imprisoned here’. 

Not being much in use made the castle turn into ruin by 1656. The degeneration was to such an extent that its materials were ordered to be used in repairing the jetty.

Tantallon Castle

Located near North Berwick on the east coast of Scotland, Tantallon Castle was built on a cliff in the mid-14th century by Lord William Douglas. The castle comprises a curtain wall and a giant gatehouse as the primary defence point.

For several years, the Douglas family used it as a base for their resistance against the Scottish monarchy. But in the late 15th century, King James IV attacked the castle and took control of it, forcing out the Douglas family. 

As decades passed by, the castle was abandoned and fell into ruin. Today, the Tantallon Castle is a popular tourist attraction managed by Historic Scotland. 

You can tour the castle’s ruins and enjoy the picturesque views of the North Sea.

Linlithgow Palace

Located in the town of Linlithgow, the magnificent royal Linlithgow Palace was the residence of many monarchs during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Legend has it that it was the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, who was crowned Queen of Scotland when she was just 6 days old. 

Linlithgow Palace is the site of many such significant historical events. In 1503, James IV married Margaret Tudor here, eventually leading to the Union of the Crowns in 1603.

Linlithgow Palace has fallen into ruin over the centuries despite its significant past. However, the royal palace remains are still panoramic, and it is now a popular tourist spot in Scotland.

Can you buy a castle in Scotland?

Yes, you can find Castles for sale in Scotland that are often advertised in “Country Life” magazine or on other websites. Depending on the condition, location, land, etc., prices differ from slightly less than a million pounds to several million pounds.

How many castles are still standing in Scotland?

There are still more than 1500 castles standing in Scotland. Their beautiful architecture and history are worth visiting.

With their classic architecture and remarkable history, these ruined castles in Scotland are a must-visit. The impact of time on these castles leaves anyone knowing them with goosebumps. This reminds us of Percy Bysshe Shelley’s words in his famous work “Ozymandias.”

“ Nothing beside remains. Round the decay

Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare

The lone and level sands stretch far away ”

– Percy Bysshe Shelley

As quoted above, everything is transient. Even the most colossal works are helpless in the hands of time. But the history of these castle ruins would keep generations to come spellbound.

“Can I stay in a castle in Scotland?” Do you have this question in your mind after reading about Scotland Castle ruins, and you are wondering how to stay in a castle in Scotland?

Well! There are some amazing Scotland Castles you can stay in and enjoy the beauty of Scotland. And if you want to get married in Scotland, check out these Top 7 Castle Wedding Venues in Scotland !

If you liked reading about ruined castles in Scotland, would you be interested to read about Ruined Castles in Ireland? Please let us know in the comments!

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Castles to Visit in Scotland

Towering spires, thick stone walls and dramatic settings - whatever pops into your mind when you imagine a castle, you'll find it in Scotland. From magnificent city landmarks to mysterious ruins, our country is bursting with fascinating castles to visit in Scotland.

A couple exploring Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire

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Stirling Castle

Famous Scottish castles

You don't have to be an avid castle hunter to know some of these famous fortresses. These castles have provided the backdrops for bloody battles or famous films, and are still frequented by Royals or used as family homes.

Castle Stalker on Loch Linnhe

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Medieval Castles

Many of Scotland's castles were built in the Medieval period or late Middle Ages. A few castles remain unchanged, whilst others have been modernised and re-designed. All medieval castles in Scotland are unique and were built depending on wealth and status at the time.

Dunnottar Castle

Ruined castles

Some of the castle ruins in Scotland date as far back as the 13th century. Crumbling ruins tell us tales of intense clan rivalries and invasions from near and far, each providing a little insight into Scottish life way back when.

Duart Castle

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Scotland’s islands are home to some of the country’s most captivating castles. Choose from a diverse array of castles spanning everything from romantic, windswept ruins to extravagant pleasure palaces from the Victorian era.

Glamis Castle

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Home » Europe » Ireland » 11 Celtic Ruins and Ancient Sites in Ireland Not to Miss

11 Celtic Ruins and Ancient Sites in Ireland Not to Miss

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: March 23, 2023

From coastal castles to farmers’ fields, the landscape of Ireland is punctuated by unique ruins. The remains of early Christian churches, medieval abbeys, and castles give this beautiful county some of its character and reflect its centuries of history. In our three trips around Ireland, we have seen many of its ancient sites and Celtic ruins. Here’s a look at some of the most fascinating Irish ruins we’ve visited.

The Priory of Kells

Glendalough, baltinglass abbey, the rock of cashel, corcomroe abbey, grianan aileach, dunluce castle, jerpoint abbey, staigue fort, gallarus oratory.

The massive Priory at Kells is the largest and most important of the Augustinian monastic sites in Ireland. Kells was believed to be founded by Baron Geoffrey FitzRobert in 1193. The priory was attacked and destroyed many times between the mid-1200s and the mid-1300s.

In 1540, King Henry VIII dissolved the priory and divided the lands, which were further dispersed by Oliver Cromwell. Currently, the Priory at Kells is being restored by Ireland’s Office of Public Works (OPW) as part of an initiative to protect the Celtic ruins in the countryside.

The most striking factor of Kells is the lack of visitors. During our nearly two hours exploring the site, we saw only one other visitor – an elderly gentleman who lives nearby walking his dog. That left plenty of time to wander the complex taking photos and imaging what life must have been like here.

The monastic settlement of Glendalough was founded in the 6 th century by St. Kevin and is noted for its massive round tower standing on the valley floor in the Wicklow Mountains. Glendalough is on the tourist trail and makes a very popular lunch stopover for folks driving from Dublin to Kilkenny.

Glendalough is special for us because it was our very first Celtic ruin on our first trip Ireland . We were disappointed because it was pouring rain on the day we visited. On our second trip, we added a day to our Ireland itinerary so we could revisit Glendalough – hopefully in better weather. This trip did not disappoint.

Between Glendalough and Kilkenny is the small village of Baltinglass. As we planned our route, I noted on the map that there was a ruin in the town. Intrigued, we decided to stop for a visit, which turned out to be one of the great adventures of our trip.

The Baltinglass Abbey is not manned by staff from the OPW and only a rudimentary sign at the entrance gives any information about the site. The site is next to a modern church (St. Mary’s Church), and we arrived on a Saturday as the congregation was deep in preparations for the annual harvest feast. The parishioners are very proud of both the ruins as well as the modern church and gave us an extensive tour of both.

One of the parishioners spoke up and indicated he had a booklet about the site and wanted us to have it (the booklet is called Baltinglass and Its Abbey by The Rev. Canon Claude Chavasse). We were to follow him in our rental car to his house, which was “just over there” – a flourish of the arm in the general direction of the town.

But Mr. Carpenter’s house was not in town. So, we went over the river and through the woods before arriving at his stunning farm in the countryside. Meeting locals is always a highlight of a trip and meeting him and seeing his home was a fantastic adventure.

From the booklet, I learned that Baltinglass Abbey was completed in the 12 th century in the Irish Romanesque style. At one time, it was not only one of the richest in all of Ireland but one of the wealthiest in all of Europe.

Few sites in Ireland have as much historical significance as the Rock of Cashel . On this site above the Tipperary plain, St. Patrick converted and baptized the King of Munster in the 5 th century. For centuries, the Rock was the seat for the Kings of Munster – and was fought over by the various Celtic tribes.

In the early 1100, one of the Kings of Munster (Muirchertach Ua Briain) donated the Rock to the Catholic Church, and the rest is history. The round tower dates from ~1100 and the other buildings were added shortly thereafter.

The Rock of Cashel is one of our favorite places to visit in Ireland , so we’ve visited on each of our trips. There’s just something magical about this place towering above the plains.

Hore Abbey is just a stone’s throw from the Rock of Cashel, but it is a very different site. Originally a Benedictine abbey, it was founded in 1266. But just a few short years later in 1272, Archbishop David McCarvil expelled the Benedictines when he dreamed that they were trying to murder him. At least that’s what legend says was the reason.

The Cistercians assumed control and oversaw operations there for centuries. Now, it’s a beautiful site to explore with arches, niches, and lots of headstones. In the middle of a cow pasture, a visit here can be a little bit messy.

The Cistercians preferred isolated locations for their monasteries. Thus, this spot in what is now County Clare fit the bill for a new place to worship and live when Donal Mor O’Brien, King of Thomond, founded Corcomroe Abbey here in 1194.

Though the property has been out of use for at least 400 years, the Gothic ruins endure. Inside, visitors will find detailed carvings that are among the best the Cistercians left in Irish churches. Additionally, the near-life-sized effigy tomb of Conor O’Brien, who died in 1267, can be seen in the chancel area. It is the final resting place of the grandson of Corcomroe’s founder and one of very few such tombs honoring an Irish chieftain.

One of the defining characteristics of countryside is its ring forts, the curious ancient ruins in Ireland. We first discovered them on The Ring of Kerry. Our innkeepers in Derry recommended we visit Grianan Aileach atop a hill just west of the city and back in the Republic of Ireland (County Donegal).

Grianan Aileach was the seat of the Kingdom of Aileach, but was destroyed by the King of Munster Muirchertach Ua Briain in 1101 (the same King who donated the Rock of Cashel to the Catholic Church).

We arrived before the posted the opening time, but the gates were already open. This ring fort is completely intact (restored in the mid-1800s) and offers incredible 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside. Grianan, like other ring forts, just feels so ancient.

On the Antrim Coast Road not far from Giant’s Causeway, the majestic ruins of Dunluce Castle hang on the cliff of a small islands just offshore.

Built in the 13th century by the Earl of Ulster, the castle was ruled by the McQuillan and MacDonald clans for centuries. It has been over 200 years since the castle’s north wall crashed into the sea below, but that hasn’t dampened people’s interest in the dramatic structure.

Today, the ruins of Dunluce Castle are a popular picnic spot on the Causeway Coastal Route.

Jerpoint Abbey was completed in 1180 by the King of Osraige and was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. Like Baltinglass, Jerpoint was a Cistercian monastery. In fact, Jerpoint was a derivative “daughter” monastery that actually reported into the “mother” Baltinglass. With stone depictions of medieval knights and a decorated cloister, there is lots to see here.

Like Grianan Aileach, the Staigue ring fort is a prehistoric structure dating from around 300 AD and overlooks Kenmare Bay. Of all the ancient sites in Ireland, this ruin has the best preserved example of interlocking stone work. Local lore has it that this structure might have been some kind of trading post.

During our visit, we found the fortification to be open for exploring, by both man and sheep. Given its location on the popular Ring of Kerry , this is one of the most visited Celtic ruins.

This unusual building on the Dingle Peninsula overlooking Ard na Caithne/Smerwick dates from the 12th century. This small structure is believed to be an early Christian church or chapel. Discovered in 1756 by Charles Smith, there has been some controversy over the age, origins, and purpose of the building.

This is the only intact oratory in Ireland. While others may have existed at one time (and local writings and lore attest to that), this is the only one to exist.

We visited on a cool, windy morning and found the place to be very remarkable. The views of the nearby farms (with sheep!) and of the harbor below makes this one of the more remarkable Celtic sites in Ireland.

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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Wednesday 15th of June 2022

Ballintubber Abbey was my favorite. Pierce Brosnan was married there, as well as many Irish couples. i hope to return someday.

Monday 17th of August 2015

This is thoroughly fascinating. Thanks for sharing the beautiful photos and the information. BTW, is Kells Abbey related in any way to the Book of Kells? I wonder if it's where the manuscript was copied and illuminated.

Tuesday 25th of February 2014

I love seeing sunshine-y photos of Ireland! All fantastic shots!

Laura Longwell

Wednesday 26th of February 2014

Thanks! We were very lucky to have great weather!

Londoner Kate

Thursday 9th of January 2014

IM GOING THERE!!

Gorgeous!! I've always wanted to go to Ireland!

These 11 Irish castles showcase the dramatic beauty of historic Ireland

Oct 1, 2020 • 7 min read

The Rock of Cashel in Tipperary © Thomas Bresenhuber / Shutterstock

From brooding ruins on windswept hills to restored masterpieces, Ireland’s castles can be looked at, walked through, clambered over, dined in – and even slept in! With around 3000 castles spread across the country, you'll be spoiled for choice if you decide to check out a few. Here are 11 of our favorites.

Editor's note: check local travel restrictions and opening times before booking a trip and always follow government health advice. 

1. Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle rises above the River Nore in Kilkenny and is one of Ireland’s most visited heritage sites. Stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it has a history dating back to the 12th century, though much of its present look dates from Victorian times. The first structure on this strategic site was a wooden tower built in 1172 by Richard Fitz Gilbert de Clare, the Anglo-Norman conqueror of Ireland better known as Strongbow.

In 1192, Strongbow's son-in-law, William Marshal, erected a stone castle with four towers, three of which still survive. The castle was bought by the powerful Butler family (later earls and dukes of Ormonde) in 1391, and their descendants continued to live here until 1935. Maintaining the castle became such a financial strain that most of the furnishings were sold at auction. The property was handed over to the city in 1967 for the princely sum of 50 Irish punts.

2. Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle was the stronghold of British power in Ireland for more than 700 years, beginning with the Anglo-Norman fortress commissioned by King John in 1204. The castle was officially handed over to Michael Collins, representing the Irish Free State, in 1922.

Only the Record Tower (1258) survives from the original building, as most of what remains now was built from the 18th century onwards. The castle is now used by the Irish government for meetings and functions, and tours take in the State Apartments and St Patrick's Hall, where Irish presidents are inaugurated and foreign dignitaries toasted. The castle is home to the world-famous Chester Beatty Library.

3. Cahir Castle

Cahir Castle in Tipperary enjoys a riverside site with massive walls, a moat, turrets, towers and keep, mullioned windows, original fireplaces and a dungeon. Founded in 1142 and passed to the Butler family in 1375, it's one of Ireland's largest castles.

In 1599, the Earl of Essex shattered its walls with cannon fire. The castle, originally built to protect a salmon fishery and important river crossing, eventually surrendered to Cromwell in 1650 without a struggle. It is largely intact and still formidable. It was restored in the 1840s and again in the 1960s when it came under state ownership.

4. Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle in Galway is a chess-piece style castle erected around 1520 by the O’Hynes clan. It sits on the fringes of Kinvara on the former site of the 6th century royal palace of Guaire Aidhne, the king of Connaught. The castle passed into the hands of the Martyns of Galway in the early 17th century. Dunguaire was bought and renovated by Oliver St. John Gogarty, the famous surgeon and literary figure, in 1924.

It became the venue for meetings of the literary revivalists such as W.B. Yeats, his patron Lady Gregory, George Bernard Shaw, Edward Martin and J.M. Synge. In 1954, the castle was acquired by Christabel, Lady Ampthil, who completed the restoration started by Gogarty after buying it for the equivalent of €500 ($586). She lived there from the 1950s to the 1970s, and the castle is now the property of Shannon Heritage.

5. Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel in Tipperary is an ancient fortified home of kings and one of Ireland's most spectacular historic sites. Sturdy walls circle an enclosure containing a round tower and a 13th century Gothic cathedral. The undoubted highlight is the early-12th-century Cormac's Chapel, an exquisite gem of Romanesque architecture with beautifully carved doorways and the precious remains of colorful wall paintings.

In the 4th century, it was chosen as a base by the Eóghanachta clan from Wales, later known as the MacCarthys, who lost possession to the O'Brien tribe under Brian Ború's leadership. In 1101, King Muircheartach O'Brien presented the Rock to the Church to curry favour with the powerful bishops and to end secular rivalry over possession of the Rock with the Eóghanachta. It's a five-minute stroll from the town centre up to the Rock, from where fantastic view over the Tipperary countryside can be enjoyed.

6. St John's Castle

King John's Castle in Limerick was built on the orders of King John of England between 1200 and 1212. It is considered to be one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe. Its massive twin gate towers still stand to their full height, and the armoury and its contents remain as evidence of the castle's turbulent history.

Limerick’s showcase castle is best viewed from the west bank of the River Shannon. The site on which the castle stands has been occupied for over 1000 years, and a number of houses believed to be Viking in origin were unearthed during earlier restorations of the castle. Elements of these dwellings and some artefacts found on site can be seen at King John's Castle visitors' centre.

7. Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle in Cork is a 16th-century tower set in gorgeous grounds, popular for its Fern Garden, Arboretum, Poison Garden and Rock Close. While the site dates back to the 10th century, the castle seen today was built by Lady Colthurst in 1874.

Crowds flock to the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone , which is said to be a former altar stone brought back from the Crusades. One of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, it is rumored to grant “the gift of the gab” to those who kiss it. In these virus-conscious times, an eco-friendly, World Health Organization-approved cleanser is used to clean the stone after each kiss.

8. Ross Castle

Ross Castle in Kerry dates to the 15th century, when it was a residence of the O'Donoghue family. It was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell, and was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652. It sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare. They owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park.

Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane, and he rises and circles the lake on his white horse on the first morning of May every seven years. Anyone catching sight of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison.

9. Trim Castle

Trim Castle in Trim was Ireland's largest Anglo-Norman fortification, and was founded by Hugh de Lacy in 1173 and destroyed by Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair, Ireland's last high king, within a year. The building seen today was begun around 1200 and has hardly been modified since.

By the 16th century, the castle had begun to fall into decline and in 1649, when the town was taken by Cromwellian forces, it was severely damaged. The castle's grassy two-hectare enclosure is dominated by a massive stone keep, mounted on a Norman motte. It briefly returned to its former glory in 1996 as a location for Mel Gibson’s Braveheart, where it was the setting for Edinburgh Castle, York Castle and the Tower of London.

10. Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle in Mayo was once owned by the Guinness family of stout fame. Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, the castle was built on the perimeter of a monastic site in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman de Burgos family on a 350-acre estate on the shores of Lough Corrib.

It has had various owners over the centuries, including the Bingham, Browne and Guinness families, and various additions have been made to the buildings and grounds. John Ford's famous film, The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara was shot on the grounds and in nearby Cong in 1959, and many of the stars stayed at the castle. Now a five-star luxury hotel, it was the setting for golfer Rory McIlroy's marriage to Erica Stoll.

11. Donegal Castle

Donegal Castle guards a picturesque bend of the River Esque in Donegal. It was built by the O'Donnells in 1474, and served as the seat of their formidable power until 1607. The castle was rebuilt in 1623 by Sir Basil Brooke, along with the adjacent three-storey Jacobean house.

The building complex fell into ruin in the 20th century, and was further restored in the 1990s. Highlights include the magnificent upstairs Great Hall with its vast and ornate fireplace, French tapestries and Persian rugs.

This article was first published in April 2010 and was updated October 2020. Additional research by Heather Howard. 

This article was first published April 2010 and updated October 2020

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14 Beautiful Castles in Scotland — From Cliffside Ruins to Present-day Royal Homes

These Scottish castles offer fascinating history, stunning architecture, and sweeping grounds.

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

It's estimated Scotland has more than 1,500 castles scattered across its rugged landscapes, with the earliest structures dating to the 12th century. While many stand in ruins, others have been restored and transformed into living museums that attract lovers of history, architecture, and manicured gardens. To top it off, many Scottish castles are perched on cliffs, hills, and other scenic vantage points with spectacular views.

From fairytale-like fortresses to historic homes that have served as filming locations for beloved movies and television shows, these are 14 of the most beautiful castles in Scotland. Note that many of these sites close seasonally, so check opening times before planning your visit.

Edinburgh Castle

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

Standing strategically atop a hill called Castle Rock in Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh Castle was home to royalty for centuries. The iconic landmark, which features buildings dating back to the 12th century, has served as a fortress, military base, and prison. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle is open daily to visitors (except on Christmas Day and Boxing Day). Go on a guided tour of the Great Hall and St. Margaret's Chapel, check out the National War Museum , and attend special events, from light shows and afternoon tea to concerts and holiday performances. Tickets often sell out during the summer months, so it's best to purchase them in advance on the castle's website .

Stirling Castle

One of the largest and most historically significant castles in Scottish history, Stirling Castle was the early childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. The castle dates back to the 12th century, but most remaining buildings are from the 15th century or later. In recent years, it served as a filming location for Game of Thrones and Outlander , among other shows. The castle is open year-round, and guided tours are included in the ticket price. Explore Renaissance-era spaces like the Great Hall, Royal Palace, and Great Kitchens, walk through the Queen Anne Gardens, and marvel at hard-carved medallions that once decorated the palace ceilings in the Stirling Heads Gallery. On a clear day, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and mountains from the castle walls.

Eilean Donan Castle

It's easy to see why Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Scottish Highlands. The medieval-style castle sits on an island overlooking the Isle of Skye, with the surrounding mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. The history of the original fortress, built in the 13th century, is a bit mysterious; it was attacked by English troops in the early 1700s and left to decay for the next 300 years. But the current version, reconstructed in the 1930s, has incorporated the ruins into its design. The castle has been the backdrop for many movies and serves as a spectacular wedding venue. Visitors can explore its artifacts and furnishings while appreciating the surrounding wildlife, including dolphins, otters, and porpoises. It's open to the public most days, but check the website for any closures before you visit.

Dunnottar Castle

Mandy Haakenson/Travel+Leisure

This cliff-top fortress stands in ruins on Scotland's northeast coast, but the stunning view alone is a reason to visit. Rich in Scottish history dating back to the Middle Ages, Dunnottar Castle was once besieged by Sir William Wallace (a knight and the protagonist of the fictionalized tale "Braveheart"), and in the 1600s, it famously served as the safest place to guard the Scottish crown jewels against Oliver Cromwell's invading English army. The castle is open daily to visitors, except on certain holidays or during bad storms. Comfortable footwear is suggested, as you'll need to climb more than 200 steps to reach the castle. Ambitious adventurers may want to venture to the breathtaking shoreline below.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is the Scottish holiday home of the British royal family and was a favorite respite of Queen Elizabeth II. Located near Braemar, one of the most charming small towns in Scotland , the property was purchased by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852. The original Balmoral Castle was deemed too small for the royal family, and the present-day version was completed in 1856. Through the years, successive generations have added to the 50,000-acre estate. Admission to the grounds is free on select dates , and Land Rover expedition tours are available to those interested in seeing the surrounding parklands and wildlife.

Glamis Castle

Pronounced "glams," Glamis Castle dates back to 1372 and is the family home of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Queen Elizabeth spent her early childhood at the castle, and her sister Princess Margaret was born there. Some believe the property may have inspired Shakespeare's "Macbeth," since the title character is the Thane of Glamis. Rumored to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland, ghost stories abound. Guided seasonal tours are available, and the property often hosts special events, including a Christmas market and the Strathmore Highland Games .

Culzean Castle

Designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century, the cliff-top Culzean Castle boasts more than 640 acres consisting of gardens, beaches, woods, trails, and two adventure playgrounds for kids. Guests can reserve the six-bedroom Eisenhower apartment on the top floor, which honors President Dwight D. Eisenhower for his role during World War II. The over-the-top interiors and impressive gardens are matched only by the gorgeous sunset views. The castle is open from April through October, and the park is open year-round.

Dunrobin Castle

Located in the Northern Highlands and visually similar to a Disney castle, Dunrobin offers spectacular views of the Moray Firth and Dornoch Bay. The majestic estate dates back to the 1300s and was once home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. Open to visitors from April through October, the grounds offer lots of outdoor space (including an impeccably manicured Victorian garden), beach access, and a cafe serving tasty treats. Self-guided tours are available, and a twice-daily falcon show is a fun bonus activity.

Craigievar Castle

Originally designed in the 17th century, Craigievar Castle in the hills of Aberdeenshire has undergone many renovations throughout the years, including a return to its original shade of pink in the early 2000s. Home to the area's noble Forbes family for over 300 years until it was turned over to the National Trust for Scotland in 1963, it's more of a tower house than a castle, with small rooms and narrow stairways. The property is currently closed until 2024 due to a conservation project, so check the website for reopening details.

Blair Castle

Showcasing more than 750 years of Scottish history, Blair Castle is rich in period furnishings and historical artifacts. Guests are captivated by its exquisite staterooms, Georgian staircase, and tapestry room. The extensive gardens and surrounding woodlands encompass the nine-acre Hercules Garden, landscaped ponds, statues, and an orchard. Tickets for self-guided tours are available from April to the end of October, and seasonal events are announced online .

Urquhart Castle

The ruins of Urquhart Castle sit proudly on the scenic shore of Loch Ness. Though much of the medieval fortress was destroyed during the Jacobite Risings , its remnants offer a peek into more than 1,000 years of history, during which the control of the castle ping-ponged between the Scots and English. The site welcomes visitors year-round, and many guests also enjoy the stunning views and beautifully manicured grounds. Myths of "Nessie," the Loch Ness Monster, date back to the 6th century, and sightings have been recorded as recently as the 1930s. Hoax or fact? Urquhart is the perfect spot to take in Scotland's gorgeous scenery and decide for yourself.

Cawdor Castle

Owned and operated by the Cawdor family since 1370, this Highland castle is referenced in William Shakespeare's tragedy "Macbeth." Spared from attack, Cawdor Castle is in very good original condition. Points of interest include the Drawing Room with its original fireplace and the Tapestry Bedroom, rich in 17th-century furnishings and wares. The historical gardens are especially enchanting in the spring. Like many other castles in Scotland, Cawdor Castle is open seasonally between April and October.

Dunvegan Castle

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

Set on the rocky shores of its namesake loch, Dunvegan Castle has been the ancestral home of the MacLeod family since the 13th century. Inside, you'll find paintings and heirlooms dating back to the 15th century. Surrounding the castle are five acres of spectacular gardens with waterfalls, streams, and even a children's play area. The MacLeod Tables Cafe provides tasty meals and snacks using fresh produce grown onsite. The property is open between April and October, and various tours are available. For an added treat, join one of the 25-minute seal-watching trips around Loch Dunvegan, offered seasonally on a first-come, first-served basis.

Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is the family home of the Duke of Argyll, whose lineage can be traced back to Colin, the first Earl of Argyll. The West Highland castle was built on the shores of Loch Fyne in the 1700s, and renovations throughout the years included the addition of the third floor and conical roofs on the corner towers. Inveraray Castle played the role of the fictional Scottish home "Duneagle Castle" in the 2012 Christmas episode of Downton Abbey . Several rooms, as well as the grounds, are typically open to visitors from April through October.

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9 Best Castles on the Isle of Skye That You Must Visit

Heading to Scotland soon and wondering what the best Isle of Skye castles are? We are here to help!

Scotland is famous for many things and castles are definitely one of them!

The isle of Skye is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. It’s home to stunning natural landmarks but also beautiful castles.

Most of the castles on Skye are ruins but you will also find a couple that are still inhabited.

This is the case of Dunvegan Castle, which has been inhabited by Clan MacLeod for 8 centuries.

Visiting the castles on the isle of Skye is also a great thing to do if you are a bit of a history buff and want to learn more about the clans in the highlands.

If you’ve been watching Outlander, you will definitely enjoy that!

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the castles on the Isle of Skye.

This includes ones you can visit, ruins but also a couple of bonuses (that you can find at the end of the article).

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle is by far the most famous castle on the Isle of Skye. It is the historical home of the chiefs of Clan MacLeod.

Clan MacLeod was the main Scottish clan on the isle of Skye, alongside Clan MacDonald.

Visiting Dunvegan Castle is one of the best things to do on Skye, especially since you will get to learn so much about the history of the clans in Scotland.

It is located in the northern part of the island and overlooks Loch Dunvegan.

The castle was built in the 9th century and is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

In fact, it has been the official home of the chiefs of the clan for over 800 years!

If you choose to visit, you will get access to the gardens as well as the castle.

The gardens are very pretty and it feels like a little oasis.

If you head to the back, you will find a fantastic collection of Rhododendrons!

The castle is definitely the best part. The entrance is pretty impressive and you will then discover the living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms.

You will also get to see the famous Fairy flag (there are so many interesting legends to know about this flag so don’t hesitate to ask the staff about it).

You will then walk down to the kitchen and underground rooms.

The staff is extremely knowledgeable and they all love to share stories.

Here is an interesting fact. The prisoners used to be detained in the basement. Not only was it a very cold place but they would actually be hit by the waves from the loch.

Also, they were in the room next to the kitchen. This was so the smell of food would torture them (obviously they were starving).

The Scottish islands were clearly not the nicest of places in Medieval times but it’s such an interesting place.

HOW TO VISIT: Dunvegan Castle is open every day from April to October.

It is a paying attraction and you will need to buy a ticket online or at the front desk.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: There is a large carpark just across the road so this is very easy. It’s well maintained and easily accessible with a motorhome.

If you are travelling with a dog, you will be happy to know that you can go in to the gardens with your furry friends. Dogs are not allowed inside the castle but you can still have a walk around outside.

Armadale Castle

Now that we talked about the clan MacLeod, it’s time to mention the other major clan on Skye: the MacDonalds.

Armadale Castle is one of the houses of the Clan Donald.

It’s not as old as Dunvegan Castle. This is mainly due to the fact that the Clan Donald only established itself on the isle of Skye in the 15th century.

However, since it was one of the most powerful clans in Scotland, it was particularly influential!

The chiefs of the clan started to at Armadale in the 17th century and that’s why this castle became pretty famous.

Unlike Dunvegan Castle though, Armadale didn’t stay in very good condition. It was abandoned, fell into ruin and it was even sold in the 70s.

But good news for visitors, it was purchased by Clan Donald Lands Trust that started renovating it (this is still a bit of ongoing process) and turned it into a museum.

HOW TO VISIT: Armadale Castle is open to the public in summer. You will need to pay an entrance fee to visit (which can be bought on-site).

It will have access to the castle, the gardens and the museums.

You will also find a café there where you can grab some food and a hot drink.

They also offer holiday rentals near the castle. These are open all-year-round and you can book them anytime.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: Armadale Castle is located in the southern part of the island, near the ferry terminal.

If you are taking the ferry to or from Skye, it could be a nice first / last stop.

There is a large sign on the side of the road which indicates whether it’s open or not.

Once you reach the castle, you will find a good size carpark (suitable for motorhomes).

Caisteal Maol

Located near the Skye Bridge, Caisteal Maol is a ruined castle on the Isle of Skye.

It used to be the seat of the Mackinnon clan and was a fortress, from which they were able to watch the ships going through the strait of Kyle Akin.

As previously mentioned, this is a ruin so you shouldn’t expect anything like Dunvegan.

That having been said, it’s still a nice place to check out and it’s free!

It sits on an island near the town of Kyleakin and is a great landmark to photograph. It looks very pretty from the town!

HOW TO VISIT: If you want to get to the castle, you will need to go on a short and easy walk .

You can leave your car in the village car park in Kyleakin and take the path to the castle. It’s only 2.25 miles return and takes about an hour to complete.

Dunscaith Castle

Located in the southern part of the island, near the town of Tokavaig, Dunscaith Castle is another ruined castle on the isle of Skye.

The castle changed hands a few times over the years (between Clan MacLeod and Clan Donald), it was eventually abandoned in the 17th century and that’s why it’s now a ruin.

It is, however, important to note that is a scheduled monument which means it is protected against unauthorised change.

There are many legends about this castle and Dun Sgathaich, a mythical warrior woman, and that’s why its nickname is ‘the fortress of shadow’.

Though you can’t really visit the castle itself, it’s still a very pretty sight. It’s located on the edge of the rock and overlooks Loch Eishort.

HOW TO VISIT: If you park your vehicle off the road in Tokavaig Bay, you will find a path that goes across the bay, towards the castle.

It’s only 1.25 miles return and can be completed in 45 minutes.

Duntulm Castle

Duntulm Castle is located in the northern part of the island, on the Trotternish peninsula.

It is another ruined castle on Skye that dates from the 15th century.

Obviously, since they are ruins, you won’t find much to visit however, it is a nice place to stop if you are driving around the Trotternish Peninsula.

It’s pretty much halfway between the Quiraing and Skye Museum of Island life.

Most visitors don’t actually stop there. They only focus on the famous landmarks but here you will find beautiful ocean views and nice walks.

The castle stands on the edge of a cliff of basalt which is very pretty.

On a nice day, you can even see the Isle of Lewis at the back.

Caisteal Uisdean

Located near Uig, Caisteal Uisdean is another ruined castle on Skye but its history is a bit more unsual.

It was built by Hugh MacDonald (which is why it’s sometimes referred to as Hugh’s Castle).

Hugh was the nephew of the chief of Clan Donald but was conspiring against his own uncle.

While he was organising this plot, he built this fort, on the edge of the cliff.

Hugh MacDonald was later captured and imprisoned which is why the castle was abandoned.

Today, you won’t find much more than the ruins of a tower but it’s still a pretty cool place to visit.

HOW TO VISIT: There is a walking path that goes from Cuidrach to the castle. It’s 2.75 miles return and can be completed in less than 2 hours.

Knock Castle

Located on the Sleat peninsula, near Armadale Castle, Knock Castle (also known as Caisteal Uaine or Caisteal Camus) is another ruined castle located on the coast.

This is definitely a hidden gem on Skye and one of Scotland’s best kept secrets since you won’t even find a sign to indicate it!

It was built by the Macleod clan and was then captured by the Clan Donald.

Today, you will only find some of the walls and part of the tower however, it is a pretty nice walk and the surroundings are very pretty.

Bonus: Eilean Donan Castle

You have now discovered all the castles on the isle of Skye however, there is another one that deserves a mention and it’s Eilean Donan Castle.

Eilean Donan is one of the most famous castles in Scotland and is strongly associated with Skye.

That having been said, it’s not actually located on the island! It’s very close though and since it’s on the main road to Skye, most people stop there to visit.

Now, we know that you were searching for castles on Skye and that’s why you are here but it’s since there are 99% chances that you will drive past Eilean Donan, we think you should know about it!

The castle was originally built in the 13th century as a way to protect the highlands from the Vikings.

The castle used to belong to the Clan Mackenzie and Clan MacRae. It then played a major role in the Jacobite risings (calling all Outlander fans!) but unfortunately, this resulted in its destruction.

Since the Jacobites weren’t successful, most castles that belonged to the Clan Mackenzie were destroyed. This is one of them.

It is a very pretty castle, located on a tidal island and it’s pretty much as picturesque as it gets.

If you are into photography, you will definitely love it!

Eilean Castle was also featured in numerous movies including the 1999 James Bond The World is Not Enough.

HOW TO VISIT: Eilean Donan Castle is open to the public from March to December. It is subject to an entrance fee. Tickets can be bought from the visitor centre.

PRO TIP: You can take very nice photos of the castle from the carpark but if you want to get some unique ones, you should head to Eilean Donan Upper Viewpoint . It’s only a couple of minutes drive and you get a much better view of the loch and castle.

Bonus 2: Castle Ewen

This one is a bit of an unusual castle on Skye since it’s called ‘castle’ but is not an actual ‘castle’.

I know… that’s confusing!

Castle Ewen is a natural landmark located in Fairy Glen, in the northern part of the island.

Fairy Glen is one of the most amazing geological wonders on Skye. It’s an area with very unique basalt formations and hills.

In the centre, you will find a hill that looks like a ruined castle. This is Castle Ewen.

As previously mentioned, this is not a man-made castle however, it’s such a unique thing to do.

There is no place like Fairy Glen. As soon as you will get there, you will understand how unique and unusual this place is.

It truly conveys the magic of Scotland!

Castles on Skye: Frequently Asked Questions

How many castles are there on the isle of skye.

There are 7 official castles on the Isle of Skye but only two of them, Dunvegan Castle and Armadale, are in a good condition.

All the others are ruins which means they are nice places to visit for a walk (or to learn about history) but if you want to see what a Scottish castle is like inside, then Dunvegan Castle will be the best place to visit.

What is the oldest inhabited castle in Skye?

Dunvegan Castle, located in the northern part of the island, is not only the oldest inhabited castle on Skye but it’s the the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

It belongs to the clan MacLeod and has been the home of the chief of the clan for over 800 years.

Scotland is a country with many castles and the Isle of Skye is one of the best places to discover them!

Whether you’re looking for ruins or famous landmarks, there is no shortage of historical sites to explore!

We hope this list of the best castles on Skye has been helpful! Enjoy your trip!

You may also be interested in:

• 4 Best Isle of Skye Beaches that you must see
• 20 Best Things to do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland
• How to Get to the Isle of Skye (Scotland): Self-Driving, Tours & Public Transport

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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The 13 best castles in the UK

Enjoy a royally good day out and transport yourself back in time at one of the best castles in the UK

In the UK , we take our castles a bit for granted. They’re like our curio-packed museums and idyllic seaside towns , like our lush rolling hills and countless characterful pubs – our castles are sort of just there . But they’re also amongst the most majestic and fascinating historic structures in the entire world – when you stop to think about them, they really are quite something. 

Dotted with dramatic drawbridges, towering turrets and winding dungeons, Britain’s castles are packed with centuries of unique stories. Whether you’re looking for winding political histories or spectacular architecture, they come in all shapes, sizes, and locations, from slap-bang in the city centre to perched on stormy clifftops. So, head this way. Here are the 13 best castles in the UK.

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Best castles in the UK

1.  Warwick Castle, England

Warwick Castle makes for a proper day out. As well as all the towers, rooms and gardens to explore, there are plenty of attractions for small kids and big kids alike, all with the noble aim of making history fun. Spend the day exploring the ‘Horrible Histories’ maze, the castle dungeon and the Princess Tower, while in the grounds, there’s a bird of prey display  and a knight school. Never want to leave? You can stay the night in style with suitably decked-out glamping tents, lodges or suites in the castle itself.

From £22. Warwick Castle , Warwick, CV34 4QU.

2.  Cardiff Castle, Wales

Set in the middle of the city and surrounded by Bute Park, Cardiff Castle looks like a normal stronghold from the outside, but set foot inside and things start to get really jazzy. During its long history, the castle has been decked out with all the trappings you’d expect of a lavish palace: stained-glass windows, murals, marble and wood carvings. The opulent interiors have been described as a ‘Victorian medieval dream world’, and it’s well worth taking a tour to marvel at the banqueting hall, library and the ceiling of the famous Arab room.

From £15.50.  Cardiff Castle , Cardiff, CF10 3RB.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Cardiff

3.  The Tower of London, England

Despite its deceptive name, the Tower of London is most definitely a castle. Not only that, it’s the most secure castle in the land. No surprise that the Crown Jewels are stashed here. Visit for a glimpse of said sparklers, and pick up lots of great historical facts while you’re at it. Like, did you know that the Tower used to make all the coins in the realm, or that it has been a fortress, a palace and a prison? Or that if the six resident ravens ever leave the castle, the kingdom will fall into ruin? That’s your next dinner party convo sorted. 

From £34.80. The Tower of London , London, EC3N 4AB.

📍 Discover the best things to do in London

4.  Alnwick Castle, England

Dating back to the Norman era, Alnwick Castle in Northumberland has been lots of things, from a family home to a refuge for evacuees. Most famously, though, it’s been a film set. With activities such as broomstick training and dragon quests, you can probably guess which franchise the castle is associated with. Grab your Nimbus 2000 and head to the exact location a certain boy wizard had his first quidditch lesson. If all that sounds like nonsense to you, there are plenty of muggle activities too, like jousting, fine dining and outdoor cinema screenings.

From £20.50.  Alnwick Castle , Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NG.

5.  Caernarfon Castle, Wales

Wales has a curious relationship with its many castles. Some are proud to hold them up as beautiful examples of medieval architecture that represent a major pull for tourists, while others see the so-called Iron Ring as a painful reminder of King Edward I’s conquest of Wales in the twelfth century. Of all the castles, Caernarfon’s is possibly the most arresting, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was said to be designed on the famous walls of Constantinople (today’s Istanbul). Caernarfon is a charming town with plenty of attractions but few come close to matching the might of its eponymous castle.

From £13. Caernarfon Castle . Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, LL55 2AY

6.  Dunnottar Castle, Scotland

Nothing says drama quite like a ruined fortress perched on a precipice above the sea, and that’s exactly what you get with a visit to Dunnottar Castle in Scotland . The castle was saved from being completely lost by restoration work in 1925. It’s still kind of a ruin, but in a good, haunting way that suits its location. History buffs will love its ties to famous historical figures (shout out to Mary Queen of Scots, who visited for the first time in 1562), and photographers will love the striking figure it cuts against the sea – rain or shine, it’s practically impossible to take a bad photo of it.

From £11.50.  Dunnottar Castle , Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, AB39 2TL. 

7.  Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Popped on a peak like the proverbial cherry, this striking urban castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline, making itself the Scottish capital’s most iconic landmark. Once you’re done admiring it from afar, march your way up the Royal Mile to the front gates, then there’s plenty to do and see inside the castle itself. Plan your visit around lunch to hear the firing of the one o’clock gun, and leave time to check out the enigmatically named Stone of Destiny. It’s displayed next to the Scottish Crown Jewels, which gives you some idea of its value, but, to preserve the air of mystery, we won’t tell you what it’s for.

From £19.50. Edinburgh Castle , Edinburgh, EH1 2NG.

📍   Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh

8.  Castle Ward, Northern Ireland

Game of Thrones   is over, but that doesn’t mean our fascination with its filming locations is going anywhere. If you’re up for a little set-jetting, Northern Ireland has plenty of  Thrones gems, including Castle Ward, aka Winterfell, where the baby Starks began their adventures way back in season one.  Not a GOT fan? Explore the eighteenth-century mansion, woodlands, gardens, the tea room and secondhand bookshop, with not a dragon in sight.

From £13. Castle Ward , Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 7BA.

9.  Tintagel Castle, England

Said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, the romantic castle of Tintagel has long been connected to myths and legends. It appears  to have been constructed for its legendary location alone, as its site on the north Cornwall coast offers no obvious military value. Part of the castle is built on the mainland and the other on an island with a footbridge linking the two. Visit for the Arthurian legends and mysterious spots like Merlin’s Cave if that’s your thing. If not, the rocky beachside location is a stunning destination in itself.

From £14.50.  Tintagel Castle , Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Cornwall

10.  Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland

Touring along the Causeway Coast? Dunluce Castle is well worth a stop. This striking cliffside ruin perches on the edge of the Antrim coast. And there are some pretty dramatic stories to go with its location. Forget actual history, like Scottish sieges, we’re here for the mythical tales of hauntings, banshees and how the entire castle kitchen crashed into the sea one stormy night. Ooh, we’ve got goosebumps.

From £6. Dunluce Castle , Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8UY.

11.  Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

For a castle that looks like it’s been lifted straight from a fairy tale, head for this turreted wonder in the Scottish Highlands . With the vibe of a fancy French chateau, you’ll find pointy spires and vast windows galore overlooking the walled, formal gardens below and Moray Firth beyond. The castle dates back to the 1300s and has been continuously inhabited since then by a long line of earls and dukes. Unfortunately, you can’t stay overnight, but you can take a tour of the interior and the gardens. There’s a tearoom and a falconry, too.

Open March 29-Oct 31. From £14.50.  Dunrobin Castle , Golspie, Sutherland, KW10 6SF.

12.  Beaumaris Castle, Wales

Viewed from above, Beaumaris Castle on Anglesey is a symmetrical work of art. With its concentric ‘walls within walls’ design, it’s one of the most perfect castles in Britain… However, when it was being built, Edward I ran out of money (hey, we’ve all been there), and so the walls never reached their intended full height. The result? An unfinished but perfectly formed, tranquil-looking fortress set against a scenic, seaside backdrop. And as if it couldn’t get any more photogenic, there’s a moat. Serious castle credentials.

From £6. Beaumaris Castle , Beaumaris LL58 8AP

13.  Windsor Castle, England

The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor is likely best known as the fave castle of the late  Queen Elizabeth II. Y ou can take a tour of the plush red-and-gold state apartments (walk the historic or ceremonial route depending on your mood), explore the castle’s treasures and visit the chapel where (most of) your favourite royal weddings have taken place.

From £30.  Windsor Castle , Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ.

📍  Discover the best things to do in Windsor

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Visit the Ruined Castles of Poland

Grand but dilapidated structures from many centuries ago dot the country’s landscape

Michele Lent Hirsch

Palaces and castles are the stuff of fairy tales, usually, but Poland has a host of them in varying degrees of decay. Once a powerful corner of Eastern Europe, the country suffered a Swedish invasion in the 17th century, devastation by both Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union during World War II and  neglect during the Communist era . Over time, that’s led to a lot of ruined castles in the country.

In some cases, developers are now trying to reinvigorate  these grand properties, turning them into museums where visitors can gaze at the ornate details and learn more about Polish history. Some are now hotels. But others are simply a shell, a ruin, merely hinting at what was there hundreds of years before. And while fans of decay may enjoy these the most, Polish developers are looking to turn things around, motivated by a sense of national pride in addition to profit. “Why should the Germans have their castles on the Rhine, the French their castles on the Loire, why should the Czechs have so many castles open to the visitors and why should the Poles have only ruins?” one of the rebuilders of a medieval castle  told the Associated Press  in 2011. Another developer noted that the medieval and Renaissance periods, from which many of the castles date, were a golden age for the country—“a time when Poland was known in Europe,  when Poland mattered .”

Today, each of Poland’s castles bears the stories of a slew of owners and inhabitants. After all, a structure that’s lasted five, six, or even seven centuries has seen hundreds of people live and die there. Read on for seven of Poland’s most interesting sites of ruin and repair:

Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd

Once the largest castle in all of Europe , Krzyżtopór was built between 1631 and 1644. The design is said to be based on numbers found in the calendar. As Poland’s official travel site e xplains , “The castle had as many windows as there are days in a year, as many chambers as there are weeks, as many rooms as there are months and as many towers as there are seasons of the year.”

During Krzyżtopór’s heyday, even the horses were living in style, with troughs made out of marble and crystal mirrors in the stables. Other decadent features included a room with an aquarium for a ceiling, filled with exotic fish. Now the massive castle is in a state of ruin, which visitors can explore . Folks who want to relive the Middle Ages can also attend periodic events at the site—this summer’s have included a show of artillery (including cannons, muskets and harquebuses ), dancing and jousting tournaments .

Książ Castle in Wałbrzych

Although it has changed hands several times since its construction in the 13th century, the castle of Książ was owned by the House of Hochbergs for much of its history— between 1509 and 1941 . Then, in 1941, the Nazis invaded it and destroyed a number of chambers. They also dug tunnels under the castle, which historians still haven’t been able to entirely explain . Between Hitler’s troops and the Red Army after them, Książ began to fall into ruin, until a conservator stepped in and began restoring it in 1974. Now the place is mostly swank again, with three hotels , two restaurants and an art gallery on its grounds—but tourgoers can still tour sections of the castle that were ruined during the war and can even  go into one of the Nazi-dug tunnels . The areas that are restored throw the World War II damage into sharp relief.

Wenecja Castle in Wenecja

A former stronghold that's now fallen into ruins, the Wenecja Castle was built in the 14th century on the isthmus between three lakes : Weneckie, Biskupińskie and Skrzynka. According to a cultural website for the local region , the man in charge of the castle's construction, Mikołaj Nałęcz, compared his structure to the Italian city famous for buildings on water, and so named the site “Wenecja”—Polish for “Venice.” (Nałęcz was also a judge infamous for the “extremely cruel” verdicts he gave, which some say led to his nickname, “the Wenecja Devil.”) Other castles may offer more complete features, but for those who want to ponder just how long ago and far away the 14th century is, Weneckja provides a great visual reminder of the ravages of time.

The Mouse Tower in Kruszwica

In the town of Kruszwica in central Poland stands a structure known as the “Mouse Tower,” which was originally part of a 14 th century castle. It’s been through quite a bit: In 1656, the Swedish army seized the castle and burned it down. In the latter part of the 18th century, as the region’s official website explains , “the castle ruins were gradually dismantled and its bricks floated up the Noteć river to Inowrocław.” Yet the tower still stands, along with some wall fragments, and an excavation in the 20th century uncovered other fragments of the castle as well as pieces of wooden huts, glass beads and the remains of streets from a city in the area’s medieval days. 

So why is it called the “Mouse Tower”?  According to  The Rough Guide to Poland , legend has it that residents rose up against an “evil leader” who took refuge in his tower, “where he was eventually devoured by rats.” Today, tourists can climb to the top of the tower, about 105 feet high, and take in the (hopefully rodent-free) views.

Chęciny Castle in Chęciny

The ghost of a horse is said to  haunt Chęciny , whose construction began  more than 700 years ago . A  fire broke out in 1465 , and over the course of the next few centuries, the castle endured several more conflagrations as well as a number of military attacks. Various inhabitants sought to repair the structure but seemed unable to keep up with repeated destruction, and the castle was abandoned in 1707. Some restoration efforts followed World War II, but a giant, two-year undertaking to further reinvigorate the castle just concluded this year, and there are a number of new things for visitors to see. Previously, one could climb  only the eastern tower, but  the western tower is now also accessible , giving visitors an additional high-up vantage point.

Experts have also uncovered evidence of yet another tower, now gone—and to help us picture it, they’ve placed  two giant concentric circles  made of colored stones, mapping its erstwhile shape and location. The revitalization also added a number of wooden statues  along the path to Chęcin, featuring royalty and knights who played a role in its history.

Kamieniec Castle in Odrzykon

Located on the edge of the Czarnorzecko-Strzyżowskiego National Park , Kamieniec is a defensive fortress from the 14th century, although the mid-15th century is considered its era of peak splendor .   As with other castles in Poland, owners over the years expanded the site with new construction and repaired it after attacks. The Swedish invasion of the country in the 17th century severel y damaged  the building, and although later owners tried to fix it up, the castle still fell into decline. It was considered  a ruin by 1786 . Today, it’s  open to visitors , including school children—and boasts quite an eclectic mix of activities. There are ceramic workshops on the castle grounds, as well as a tour of the  torture chamber . 

Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork

Built during the 13th century, this  Gothic brick castle complex and Unesco World Heritage  site was once a fortified monastery for the Teutonic Order. During its many years of existence, the castle has fallen into several periods of decay, followed by periods of restoration.  Acccording to Unesco ,  its architectural features were influential across northeastern Europe. Its reconstructions were influential, too: Many of the methods used by conservators to restore the castle in the 19th and early 20th centuries went on to become standard practice . Visitors to the museum in place today can explore, among other things, a medieval heating furnace, an old-school flour mill, a garden and that most classic feature of childhood castle dreams:  a moat .

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Michele Lent Hirsch | | READ MORE

Michele Lent Hirsch is a writer, editor, and native New Yorker. She is currently at work on a nonfiction book about health and gender.

10 Best Castles to Visit in England

England's 10 best castles include magical settings for legendary stories and early Medieval ruins connected to powerful families. There are castles with romantic stories and others that are the Victorian fantasies of wealthy aristocrats. These are among the best.

Leeds Castle, the Most Romantic Castle in England

Leeds Castle, near Maidstone in Kent, is often called the most romantic castle in England because of its beautiful setting, surrounded by a moat. There is another good reason to think of romance here. For most of its 1,000-year history, it has been a lady's castle. The first woman to own it, Eleanor of Castile, the wife of King Edward I, bought it for herself from the Norman noble who went broke building it. Eventually, it was the dower house of six queens, and Henry VIII added luxury touches to make it ready for his newest wife, Anne Boleyn. Sadly, she lost her head before she had much time to enjoy it.

Today the castle combines original medieval rooms and features with 20th-century areas created for the last private resident, an Anglo-American heiress who entertained celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and the young Winston Churchill. Among the highlights are the Gloriette, the oldest part of the castle, and the many family-oriented events that take place throughout the year. There's a hedge maze that ends in a magical hidden grotto and extensive gardens to explore.

Arundel Castle, a Fairytale Castle and a Nest of Conspirators

Arundel Castle was begun within a year of the Norman Conquest in 1067. Some parts of that early castle—the keep, the gatehouse, and the barbican (defensive tower above the gate)—remain. Still, most of what you see is a Victorian fantasy of what a castle should look like, added during renovations in the 1880s and 1890s.

It is still a fabulous place to visit in its position high above the West Sussex town of Arundel and the river Arun, about two hours by car or train south of London.

It's the family seat of the Dukes of Norfolk, who is still in residence. Learning about this once politically powerful family and the ups and downs of their fortunes is the highlight of any visit. The family included several cardinals, a saint, a hero of the Spanish Armada, and the uncle of both Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. He conspired to marry both of them to Henry VIII, and both lost their heads as a result. So, by the way, did many Dukes of Norfolk.

The house is crammed with Tudor-era furniture, tapestries, and clocks as well as portraits by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, and others. While there, you can also see some of the personal possessions of Mary, Queen of Scots—the fourth Duke plotted to marry her and was beheaded for it.

Dover Castle, Guarding England Since William the Conqueror

Dover Castle commands the shortest crossing of the English Channel to France, the reason William the Conqueror himself chose it. He directed the building of a stockade there almost immediately after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. He wasn't the first to recognize this hill's importance. The Romans and the Anglo Saxons also fortified the spot, and you can see evidence of them when you visit. The castle remained a garrisoned fortress from these early days right up to the late 1950s.

Among the highlights of a visit, see the Great Tower, where six rooms of the Medieval castle of Henry II, William's grandson, have been recreated. Then tour the World War I Fire Command Post and take a guided tour of the World War II tunnels that housed a hospital and Operation Dynamo, the planning HQ for the evacuation of thousands of British soldiers from Dunkirk. Some of the costumes from the 2017 film, "Dunkirk," are on exhibit there.

Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn's Childhood Home

Anne Boleyn's childhood home is a mere 30 miles southeast of London, near Edenbridge in Kent. It's surrounded by 125 acres of gardens and includes 28 rooms where you can stay.

The Tudor house, built by the Boleyn family, sits within the 13th century, medieval castle, filled with Tudor rooms—including a bedroom reputed to be Anne's. The castle was restored by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor who created a family home in part of the castle while indulging his interest in history by renovating the house. The heavily carved paneling and furniture in the Tudor rooms are worth a visit alone.

Hever Castle is an active family attraction with events happening in the gardens and grounds throughout the summer. Don't miss the jousting and heavy horse events that take place regularly within an authentic Medieval jousting arena, complete with a royal box.

Alnwick Castle, Learn to Fly from Harry Potter's Professor

Alnwick Castle (pronounced Annick), the family seat of the Dukes of Northumberland, is the second-largest inhabited castle in England (Windsor is the largest). It's on England's northeast coast, about halfway between Newcastle upon Tyne and the Scottish border.

For more than 700 years, the castle has been home to the Percys, once an influential political family in the late Middle Ages. Today this castle is probably more famous as the location of Hogwarts in "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" and "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets."

Today you can learn broomstick flying and the rules of Quiddich in Outer Bailey, where Harry and friends learned to fly. Free 25-minute broomstick training sessions are available to castle ticket holders throughout the day. And the "Professors" share the secret of taking airborne photos with "graduates."

In the Artisan's Courtyard, the family can dress up in Medieval costumes and join in with the villagers in trying traditional crafts and games. You can also go on a quest to conquer a dragon.

The castle has impressive staterooms, and about a mile down the road, the Duchess of Northumberland has created new gardens that include a gated and locked poison garden that can only be visited by guided tour.

Bolsover Castle, a Party House of the Stuart Era

Sir William Cavendish built Bolsover Castle, within the ruins of a Norman castle, in the 17th century during the reign of the Stuart king, Charles II. He was a playboy, poet, and adventurer who designed his house to resemble a Medieval castle. But it was a place for him to entertain and impress his friends. During the English Civil War, Cavendish, who was a Royalist or Cavalier fought on the losing side and fled into exile in 1644. When he returned, about 16 years later, his house was severely damaged. He set about restoring some of it into what is now the Little Castle.

A highlight of a visit is the chance to see the Cavalier Horses perform in the indoor Riding School at Bolsover Castle. The horses perform to Baroque music with riders in Cavalier costumes, every weekend from early April to early October.

This Derbyshire house is about 25 miles north of Nottingham and about 12 miles east of the Peak District National Park.

Bodiam Castle, Ruined Splendor Behind a 14th Century Moat

 Duncan George/Getty Images

Visit Bodiam Castle in East Sussex to walk the long bridge across its magnificent moat and to enter a ruined 14th century castle left much as it was the last time it saw battle. You might find that Bodiam Castle resembles the castle you may have built with a pail and shovel on the beaches of your childhood. You can climb ancient spiral staircases and see a very rare and original portcullis in the gatehouse. Picnic on the grounds or join a free archery session.

Bodiam is about 11 miles from the south coast at Hastings and only around 7 miles from Battle, the site of the Battle of Hastings, and well worth a visit.

Kenilworth, a Castle to Woo a Queen

Kenilworth started as a Norman country house. It was fortified into a castle by Henry II, William the Conqueror's grandson, who needed a stronghold to protect his throne from his many warring brothers. It was finally reduced to ruins by Oliver Cromwell's men after the English Civil War in the 17th century. But before that Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, extensively renovated the castle to please a special visitor, Queen Elizabeth I.

The story of Elizabeth and Dudley is one of the great unresolved romances of history. The childhood friends were reacquainted when both were imprisoned in the Tower by Elizabeth's sister, Queen Mary. Dudley became her favorite, and there was even talk of marriage. Then scandal over the mysterious death of his wife Amy made marriage impossible. Instead, he virtual rebuilt Kenilworth to please Elizabeth, who visited often.

Since 2014, new enclosed staircases let visitors enjoy views last seen by Elizabeth more than 400 years ago, while 21st-century gardeners recreated the privy garden created for her. And in the Leicester Gatehouse, see an Elizabethan bedroom and an exhibition about the romantic story.

Kenilworth is in Warwickshire, 105 miles from London but only 15 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, making it an excellent add-on to a short break in Shakespeare's England.

Tintagel, Echoes of King Arthur

Legend has it that King Arthur was conceived here. What is much more likely is that Richard, Earl of Cornwall, and brother of King Henry III picked this strategic headland to build his castle in the 13th century and connected it to the popular Morte d'Arthur, a "bestseller" of the early middle ages. To strengthen his claim and attachment to Cornwall, Richard clothed himself in the popular legends. Tintagel's astonishing position, perched on rocks above a beach and Merlin's cave, makes it easy to imagine legendary romances happened here.

You need a head for heights for the long steep staircases and the narrow bridge that connects the castle to the mainland. It's worth the effort. Tintagel Head is on the north coast of Cornwall between Boscastle and Port Isaac.

Warkworth Castle, the Seat of Medieval Power

Warkworth Castle, near the Northumberland coast and the Scottish border, was built by the colorful Percy family who arrived in Britain with William the Conqueror and became power players and intriguers through the Middle Ages. As the Dukes of Northumberland, they also built nearby Alnwick Castle, which is still the family seat.

The castle's position, a ruin at the top of its small English village, is dramatic. Today's visitors can explore the unusual cruciform castle keep, designed in the shape of a Greek cross. Its rooms and floors can be explored as can the Duke's chambers, two rooms roofed and floored in the 19th century for the private use of the Duke and his family. The gatehouse is the oldest part of the castle, and beyond it, the Bailey is a flat, grassy area great as a picnic and children's play area.

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17 of the World’s Most Incredible Ancient Ruins

These unesco world heritage sites in lebanon, scotland, and ethiopia are all worth the trip..

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Moai, huge carved stone figures, dominate the landscape of Easter Island.

Photo by Skreidzeleu/Shutterstock

Stonehenge, Machu Picchu , Pompeii , Angkor Wat , the Acropolis : Even if you’ve never visited these famous ancient ruins, you know about them. And if you have visited them, you know they’re also usually crowded, as “must-see” places often are. You’re beside the Parthenon trying to imagine it painted in bright colors, as it was originally, while dodging tour groups led by flag-waving guides shouting facts.

Although they are well worth visiting, here are 17 other trip-worthy ancient ruins, including several that may be new to you.

1. Rapa Nui National Park, Easter Island

Moai , huge carved stone figures, dominate the landscape here. These haunting statues, depicting ancestors of the Rapa Nui people, vary in height from 6 feet to 60 and were erected during the 10th to the 16th centuries. To see them, you’ll need to travel to the most remote inhabited island on Earth. That isolation led to distinctive artistic traditions, which include petroglyphs in stone houses and caves. Covering 40 percent of the island, the park contains hundreds of statues.

The huge temple of Bacchus at Baalbek

Courtesy of Britannica

2. Baalbek, Lebanon

This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts an excellent array of Roman ruins. Three temples, including the largest built by Imperial Rome, were constructed over some 200 years. Dedicated to Venus, Bacchus, and Jupiter, they feature highly detailed carvings. The half dozen remaining columns of the huge temple of Jupiter stand some 70 feet high; the temple of Bacchus is largely intact; its Corinthian columns rise 60 feet from its stone base. A hexagonal courtyard leads to the main court (343 feet by 338 feet), with broken columns of pink granite quarried in Egypt. Baalbek is about 50 miles from Beirut. An annual Baalbeck International Festival offers music and theater each summer at the site.

Chichén Itzá is near Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Photo by Irina Mos/Shutterstock

3. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

A brilliant work of architecture and astronomy, the Pyramid of Kukulkán at Chichén Itzá in Mexico is so precisely engineered that on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes, the sun casts shadows that slither like snakes and seem to descend its stairways. Said to represent the plumed-serpent deity Kukulkán, the shadows return twice yearly to drink from sacred sinkholes known as cenotes .

Today the phenomenon attracts thousands to the already crowded archaeological site, but almost-identical light-play can be seen the day before, with a fraction of the visitors. Other attractions: a circular observatory, the Great Ball Court, and the Jaguar Temple.— Susannah Rigg , AFAR Local Expert

Ring of Brodgar, Scotland: a stone circle that is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage site

Photo by Juris Kraulis/Shutterstock

4. Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Scotland

Scotland’s Orkney Islands are rich in relicts depicting life 5,000 years ago. You’ll find the Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar—four monuments known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney—on the archipelago’s largest island, Mainland. These late Stone Age remnants are well preserved, due in part to their location. Older than Stonehenge and far less visited, the dwellings of Skara Brae have been called the “Scottish Pompeii.” Stenness, an early henge monument, resembles a modern sculpture installation; Maeshowe is a chambered mound tomb (sporting Viking graffiti), and Brodgar’s large stone circle has 27 of the original megaliths still standing.

Several wats (temples) at Ayutthaya

Photo by FocusStocker/Shutterstock

5. Ayutthaya, Thailand

While you’re in Thailand, escape the colorful chaos of Bangkok and head for the historic capital of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ayutthaya is a ghostly city of striking ruins and entangled wats, or temples, and prang (reliquary towers). Brightly colored offerings contrast with the aging stones and brick. King Ramathibodi founded Ayutthaya in 1350; located at the head of the Gulf of Siam, it was a trading center, with palaces and monasteries, one of the world’s largest cities in its heyday. Ayutthaya was the capital of the Siamese kingdom until its destruction by the Burmese army in 1767. — Bronwen Gregory , AFAR Local Expert

One of the largest tombs at Hegra, which is in the AlUla area and is Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site.

Courtesy of Experience AlUla

6. Hegra Archaeological Site, Saudi Arabia

Unlike its famed distant cousin Petra, ancient Hegra has only been open to visitors for the past three years. It is not yet swamped with tourists (Petra gets nearly 1 million a year). Hegra was an outpost of the Nabataean kingdom; it prospered from the 4th century B.C.E. until the 1st century C.E. The 100+ tombs carved into sandstone that remain show Greek, Egyptian, and Roman influences. Many are inscribed in Nabataean (a variety of Aramaic) with dire warnings that the gods will curse anyone who dares to disturb a burial place. The wells built here by Nabataeans are still used today. It became a UNESCO site in 2008, the first for Saudi Arabia. Visitors can fly into nearby AlUla.

Caral-Supe, the most ancient city in the Americas, is in Supe Valley, north of Lima, Peru

Photo by Shutterstock

7. City of Caral-Supe, Peru

The UNESCO World Heritage site designation is essentially a reliable stamp of approval that means “visit here.” The ancient ruins of the sacred city of Caral-Supe, the oldest civilization center in the Americas, is one such site. Dating back more than 5,000 years, it is located in a desert near the Supe River, north of Lima. Its 150 acres feature sunken circular plazas, a tall temple, and earth-and-stone dwellings—impressive architecture for a people who did not make ceramic pots. Peruvian archaeologist Ruth Shady Sidal began excavations in 1994, and they’re making ongoing discoveries. Carla-Supe’s weather-worn pyramids were built before the famous Egyptian pyramids.

Visitors are dwarfed by the Kailasa temple, cave 16 in the Ellora complex in Maharashtra, India.

8. Ellora Caves, India

Nearly three dozen caves/temples were carved out of cliffsides during the 6th to 10th centuries. The basalt rock-cut structures showcase Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain cultures. Elaborate Hindu “cave” 16, a freestanding temple hewn from solid rock, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is twice the size of the Parthenon. The caves are 50 miles from the more famous Ajanta Caves. You might want to visit during the annual Ellora Festival of classical dance and music.

Carved stele at Aksum, famous obelisks in Ethiopia

9. Aksum, Ethiopia

Back when the Roman empire was powerful, the Kingdom of Aksum thrived in northern Ethiopia for some 10 centuries. The remains of this international trading center include palace ruins, royal tombs, and carved obelisks, aka steles. The tallest obelisk still standing is carved to resemble a building and rises more than 60 feet. As with the Acropolis and other historical ruins looted by various conquerors, in the case of Aksum, Italian soldiers took an obelisk 1937 during their occupation of Ethiopia; it was returned in this century. Other valuable remnants: stone tablets with trilingual inscriptions in Greek, Sabena, and what was then the local language, Ge’ez.

The archaeological site of ancient Olympia is where Olympic games began and where the Olympic torch today is ignited.

Photo by Georgios Kritsotakis/Shutterstock

10. Olympia, Greece

Although much is gone among the ruins of this sanctuary—including a gold and ivory statue that was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world—the serene setting survives. Today we associate Olympia with sports, but it began as a religious center. The Olympic Games, held every four years starting in 776 B.C.E. for over 1,000 years, were part of a festival for Zeus. Romans and earthquakes later did considerable damage to the site. More columns remain standing at the gymnasium than at the large temples for Hera and Zeus.

Merv was once among the largest cities on the Silk Route.

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

11. Ancient Merv, Turkmenistan

The oldest of the oasis cities along Central Asia’s Silk Route, Merv was so prosperous that it boasted an icehouse (filled with winter snow). Its ruins cover four millennia, Bronze Age to medieval. Much of it, including a population estimated at 500,000, was destroyed by Tolui, a son of Genghis Kahn, in 1221. Five miles of walls once surrounded this city, complete with canals, libraries, and orchards. Besides fame for its steel, cotton, and melons, Merv was a cultural and scientific center. Omar Khayyam spent several years working at its observatory. Among the remains in this large archaeological park are a mosque, a Buddhist monastery, and several mausoleums. Travelers can fly to Mary, the nearest city, from the capital, Ashgabat.

Mesa Verde, Colorado

Photo by Jeffrey M. Frank_Shutterstock

12. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

These numerous Ancestral Pueblo Indian dwellings include hundreds of cliff dwellings, at an altitude of 8,530 feet, the remains of a culture that lived here nearly 900 years. Even before the National Park Service began, the federal government protected this area, the first archaeological site anywhere to gain this recognition. Don’t miss the daily ranger-assisted tour of the Cliff Palace, which features 150 rooms and 23 kivas, or the more in-depth tour of the Long House. (Be ready to climb a few ladders.) When planning your visit, note that winter weather closes the cliff dwellings and the park lodge is open from May into October.

At Prambanan temple compounds in Java, Indonesia, three of the largest temples are dedicated to the Trimurti: the Creator (Brahma), the Preserver (Vishnu), and the Destroyer (Shiva).

Photo by saiko3p/Shutterstock

13. Prambanan Temple Compounds, Indonesia

These hundreds of Hindu and Buddhist temples on Java date from the 9th century. Earthquakes (as recently as 2006) and volcanic eruptions have damaged the site over the centuries; the small temples have mostly collapsed. The tallest temples are dedicated to Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva; bas-relief panels recounting the Hindu epic poem Ramayana decorate them. From May through October, the Ramayana Ballet performs the story outdoors at the temple compounds, aka Candi Rara Jonggrang.

Large wheels of stone were used to block doorways in the old underground city of Derinkuyu.

Photo by Nina Lishchuk/Shutterstock

14. Derinkuyu Underground City, Türkiye

There’s more to see in Cappadocia than what you can view from its iconic hot air balloon rides. Derinkuyu is the largest of two subterranean cities in Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia—an otherworldly landscape of hoodoos, fairy chimneys, and troglodyte villages. The Byzantine city housed up to 20,000 people on multiple levels, descending 18 stories underground, complete with ventilation shafts and ways to obtain water. It provided refuge during sieges. Thick stone wheels served as doors to block intruders. And miles-long tunnels link Derinkuyu to other underground settlements.

The Grand Plaza with the North Acropolis and Temple I (Great Jaguar Temple) at Tikal

Photo by WitR/Shutterstock

15. Tikal, Guatemala

Surrounded by jungle are the dramatic remains of this Mayan site, inhabited for some 1,500 years. The ancient capital city may have had 90,000 residents at its peak. Its most famous features—large temples—number over two dozen, in the shape of stepped pyramids, some among the tallest pre-Columbian structures in the Americas. Yes, you can climb the many steps for spectacular views, and because of Tikal’s remote location, you won’t feel like you’re in Times Square. In recent years, sophisticated LiDAR technology indicates that Tikal was part of a vast metropolis. More discoveries await.

Another place to view ruins of an ancient Roman city: Volubilis in Meknes, Morocco

16. Volubilis, Morocco

This 5,000-year-old city in North Africa was founded by the Berbers and later became a distant outpost of the Roman empire. It was occupied for 10 centuries and various cultures mingled here, including Islamic and Christian. Given their isolation, climate, and long abandonment, the ancient ruins—including an aqueduct, thermal baths, and a triumphal arch—are in good shape, despite earthquake damage. Especially noteworthy: the mosaic floors in the House of Orpheus, the biggest of the excavated residences.

Abu Simbel, Egypt, is near the border with Sudan.

17. Abu Simbel, Egypt

The impressive Great Pyramids of Giza rightfully earn their wonder of the world title. But then there’s Abu Simbel. The site has personality. Ramses II is present at every turn, as is his wife Nefertari. Four giant likenesses are carved into sandstone walls and look out over Lake Nasser. Inside, it’s pure Indiana Jones and archaeology with magnificent hieroglyphics and rows and rows of columns at every turn. The temple is dedicated to sun gods; twice a year, the sun’s rays travel 185 feet to fully illuminate the interior. Travel here is from Aswan in a caravan that leaves at dawn. Make arrangements from your hotel for the trip and be glad you decided to pay respects. — Kristin Zibell , AFAR Local Expert

This article originally appeared online in 2021; it was most recently updated on August 25, 2023, to include current information.

11 Best Castles In Northern Ireland In 2024

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re in search of the best castles in Northern Ireland, this guide is a good start.

The 6 counties of Northern Ireland (Antrim, Armagh, Tyrone, Derry, Fermanagh and Down) are home to many an ancient castle.

Some, like Dunluce Castle, are in ruins while others, like Belfast Castle, have been carefully maintained.

In the guide below, you’ll discover what  we  think are the best castles Northern Ireland has to offer.

Table of Contents

The best castles in Northern Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

Magnificent postcard-perfect castles pepper Northern Ireland’s landscape. You’ll find them perched atop crumbly cliff edges and overlooking picturesque rivers and lakes.

Some lay in complete ruin, like Kinbane and Dunseverick, while others, like Castlewellan and Belfast Castle, look as mighty as they did hundreds of years ago.

1. Dunluce Castle 

The now-iconic ruins of Dunluce Castle have a very dramatic location. You’ll find Dunluce perched atop some craggy cliffs in County Antrim, a stone’s throw from the Giants Causeway .

Like many castles in Northern Ireland, Dunluce has a fine bit of legend attached to it. It’s said that on a stormy night back in 1639, part of the castle’s kitchen fell into the icy water below.

Apparently, only the kitchen boy survived, as he managed to tuck himself away in a corner of the room, which kept him safe.

Now, unfortunately a painting from the time has debunked this legend, but it adds a bit of colour to the castle… not that it really needs it, to be fair.

Related read:  Check out our guide to 32 of the best castles in Ireland

2. Carrickfergus Castle

Next up is one of the most famous castles Northern Ireland has to offer – Carrickfergus Castle .

You’ll find Carrickfergus Castle in the town of Carrickfergus in County Antrim, on the shores of Belfast Lough.

The castle at Carrickfergus was first constructed by John de Courcy at some time in 1177 and he used it as his headquarters. He remained here until 1204 when he was booted out by Hugh de Lacy, another Norman.

The castle saw its fair share of action over the years:

• It was seized by King John in 1210
• It was part of the week-long ‘Siege of Carrickfergus’ many years later, in 1689
• It looted by French invaders in 1760
• It was used to hold prisoners of war in 1797

Then, during the Second World War, the castle was used as an air-raid shelter. It wasn’t until many  years later, in 1928, that ownership was given to the new Government of Northern Ireland.

3. Belfast Castle

You’ll find the impressive Belfast Castle on the lower slopes of the gorgeous Cave Hill country park , a stone’s throw from the city.

The castle and its finely-manicured grounds are home to a whole host of animal and plant life, from beautiful long-eared owls and sparrowhawks to Belfast’s rarest plant, the Town Hall Clockto.

The original Belfast Castle was built in Belfast City by the Normans during the 12th century. It was rebuilt again in 1611 on the same site where it sat for many years.

And then it was burned to the ground in 1708. It was decided that the original site would be abandoned and that the new castle would be built on Cave Hill.

Although Belfast Castle is one of the finest castles in Northern Ireland, it’s missed by many that visit the city. Make sure that you add it to your to-see-sharpish list!

Related read:  Check out our guide to 28 of the best things to do in Belfast

4. Kinbane Castle

One of the lesser known castles Northern Ireland has to offer is the dramatically located  Kinbane Castle , which can be found along the stunning Antrim coast where it was built in 1547.

The castle is situated atop a little rocky promontory called Kinbane Head. Kinbane Castle almost looks like something that was created with a bit of Photoshop wizardry.

The promontory upon which the castle sits juts out into the sea, giving the castle an almost other-worldly feel.

Those that visit can expect to find these isolated ruins surrounded by jagged cliffs and a clatter of breath-taking coastal scenery.

5. Castlewellan

A visit to Castlewellan Forest Park is up there as one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland . The park is home to a stunning lake, a Victorian Castle, and spectacular panoramic views.

There’s also a 12 km walking trail network that boasts views of the Mourne Mountains and the surrounding countryside.

Castlewellan Castle is what’s known as a Scottish Baronial Castle. It was constructed in 1856 and it overlooks the lake and the park.

These days, the castle is used as a Christian conference centre, and it is rarely open to the public. However, you can admire this castle from the outside as you explore the lush grounds.

6. Monea Castle

Another of the lesser-known Northern Ireland castles is Monea Castle, which was built in 1618.

Monea Castle is the biggest and the best-preserved of the many Plantation Castles that can be found in County Fermanagh.

Now, if you’re wondering what the Plantation was, here it is in a nutshell: the Plantation of Ulster took place in the early 17 th Century.

It was an attempt by the English to forcefully take control of the province of Ulster. King James confiscated land and handed it over to people from Britain (mainly English and Scotts) that would agree to settle in Ulster and support the crown.

Unsurprisingly, these thieves soon found themselves living amongst a hostile native population. So, they built defensive dwellings, like Monea, to defend themselves from the locals.

7. Gosford Castle

One of the best castles in Northern Ireland for visiting Game of Thrones fans is the 200+-year-old Gosford Castle and Forest Park in County Armagh.

Gosford Castle was used to portray the House of Tully in the blockbuster show and it was inside these walls that certain dark events took place.

Yep, I’m referring to the beheading of Rickard Karstark! Interestingly enough, Gosford Castle is one of the largest castles that was ever built in Ireland.

If you fancy giving the legs a stretch, there are 4 different walks that you can head off on in the grounds, each of which is clearly signposted.

8. Tully Castle

If there are any Northern Ireland castles that are haunted, it’s this one.

Tully Castle was built for a Scottish planter, Sir John Hume, in 1619. Now, if you read the guide above closely, you’ll know what happened during the plantation.

Land was forcefully taken from the Irish and it was handed over (literally) to English and Scottish people that agreed to live here and support the crown.

So, the castle was seized and given to Hume. Many years after he moved into the castle, the Irish Rebellion of 1641 commenced.

It was then that a man named Rory Maguire, whose family originally owned the land, set off to take back what was rightfully his family’s.

However, he did so in the most horrific way imaginable. Maguire arrived at Tully Castle with a large group of mean on Christmas Eve.

When he arrived, he discovered that the castle was full of women and children. Tully Castle was surrendered, but on Christmas Day the Maguires slaughtered 60 women and children and 15 men.

9. Dunseverick Castle

Yes, another magical cliff-side ruin next. Dunseverick Castle is one of the many castles in Northern Ireland that is located on the incredible Causeway Coastal Route .

According to legend, Dunseverick was visited by the man himself, Saint Patrick, at some point during the 5th century.

It’s said that Ireland’s Patron Saint visited the castle in order to Baptise a local man who later went on to become the Bishop of Ireland.

If you fancy visiting Dunseverick Castle, park up in the little car park beside it and take the short ramble over to its ruins.

The original stone fort that occupied the area was attacked by Viking raiders in 870 AD. Dip into our guide to the best castles in Dublin to see what other Irish castles the Vikings are linked to.

10. Enniskillen Castle

You’ll find Enniskillen Castle in, unsurprisingly enough, Enniskillen in County Fermanagh. It dates back in the 16th century and it’s now home to the Fermanagh County Museum.

It also hosts the Regimental Museum of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards.

Although the current structure dates from the 16th century, there was a castle on the site long before, in 1428.

The first Enniskillen castle was constructed by Hugh Maguire and it was besieged on a number of occasions over the years.

One of the bloodiest sieges took place in 1594 when Captain John Dowdall, an English military leader, slaughtered the castle’s occupants after they surrendered.

The castle is now an official heritage site and a visit here is widely regarded as one of the best things to do in Fermanagh .

11. Dundrum Castle

There are few castles in Northern Ireland that offer a view as wonderful as Dundrum Castle in County Down.

You’ll find this castle tucked away on a beautiful wooded hill not far from the little village of Dundrum, where it offers breath-taking views of the nearby bay and the Mournes .

Dundrum Castle was built around 1177 and its primary use was to enable the control of the land routes from Drogheda in Louth to Downpatrick.

If you’re in the area and you fancy checking it out, there’s plenty of parking available close by and you can have a ramble around the ruins.

What Northern Ireland Castles have we Missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant castles in Northern Ireland from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best castles in Northern Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What Northern Ireland castles are in ruins?’ to ‘Which ones can you visit?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best castles in Northern Ireland?

This will be subjective, but in our opinion the best castles in Northern Ireland are Duncluce, Belfast Castle and Carrickfergus Castle.

How many castles are in Northern Ireland?

There doesn’t seem to be any hard evidence around the exact number of castles Northern Ireland has to offer. Some sources say 40 while others say it’s 2-3 times as many.

What is the oldest castle in Northern Ireland?

It’s believe that Killyleagh Castle in County Down is the oldest of the many Northern Ireland castles. Parts of the structure are said to date back to 1180.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Paula Beeson burns

Friday 8th of July 2022

Keith it was awsome I've never been but my ancestors was from there in the year 1400's.I've never been but would love to.

Most People Don’t Know These 10 Hidden Castles Are Right Here In Massachusetts

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

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New England can’t really compare to regular old England when it comes to castles, but we still have some pretty spectacular specimens here in Massachusetts. These castles may not be the former residences of kings and queens, but the incredible architecture and drama of these structures will definitely make you feel like you’ve wandered into a storybook. Here are 10 hidden castles in Massachusetts you might not have heard of – yet.

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These hidden castles in Massachusetts are pretty spectacular to behold. If you’re looking for a knock-out venue for a wedding or other event, you should definitely put a few of these on your short list. Did we miss any of your favorite hidden Massachusetts castles? Join the conversation in the comments! If you’re up for an adventure, set off on this road trip to Massachusetts’ most majestic castles .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Hidden castles in massachusetts.

Can I spend the night in a castle in Massachusetts?

You certainly can spend the night in castle in Massachusetts. If you’re up for a road trip, set off on an epic adventure that will take you to eight simply magnificent Massachusetts castles , some of which allow you to spend the night. Your road trip starts at Herreshoff Castle in Marblehead. If you make reservations in advance, you can spend the night in this 1920s castle that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The road trip will also take you to Hammond Castle in Gloucester, Bancroft Tower in Worcester, and Venfort Hall in Lennox.

Which hidden gems in Massachusetts should I visit?

You’ll find an abundance of hidden gems in Massachusetts , if you know where to look. Bound Brook Beach in Wellfleet, for example, requires some effort to reach. You’ll have to follow a 25-minute hike or just drive down a dirt road to arrive at the sandy beach that offers a beautiful setting for sunbathing and swimming.

For an historical adventure, head over to Schoolmaster Hill Ruins in Boston. Tucked in Franklin Park, the ruins can be found along a picturesque hiking trail. The trail is considered easy for hikers of all ages and skill levels, including kiddos.

Are there any covered bridges in Massachusetts?

We can probably classify covered bridges under the category of unique things to see in Massachusetts. You might want to carve out an entire day for a fairy tale day trip to five covered bridges . You’ll journey to five beautiful covered bridges, starting at Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge in Hardwick. The covered bridge dates back more than a century and a half, and you can even drive through it. (Be careful if you decide to walk through and keep an eye out for traffic.)

You’ll also visit Tannery Bridge in Sandisfield, Sheffield Covered Bridge in Sheffield, Burkeville Covered Bridge in Conway, and Arthur Smith Covered Bridge in Colrain.

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15 Beautiful Medieval Castles to Visit in Europe

Posted: October 18, 2023 | Last updated: October 18, 2023

The Netherlands may be better known for its windmills than its castles, but Muiden Castle rivals those in neighboring Germany.

Photo by Ninetails/Shutterstock

Whether it’s seeing a Renaissance sculpture or enjoying street food in Singapore, there’s no substitute for being there when it comes to travel. When your agenda includes visiting medieval castles—from the mighty feudal strongholds of Scotland to Germany ’s fairy-tale-like creations—imagination helps to conjure up the smells, draftiness, and lack of central heating. At the least, touring one will leave you grateful for the mod cons of 21st-century indoor life.

An example from Ross Castle in Ireland, which an AFAR editor recently explored: After winding her way up corkscrew staircases, she reached the top floor. It featured the living room or great room of the place. But what captured her attention was down a slim stone hall: The latrine had double-, if not triple-, wide seating. (Alas, photos were not allowed.) That lack of privacy at the privy underscored the communal nature of castle life.

In some countries, you can hardly throw a stone without hitting a castle. Wales has more than 600 castles (the most per square mile). Many European castles are scenic ruins but plenty have survived intact. They were built to last. So while there is no shortage of castles to explore, some are decidedly more intriguing than others. The following 14 castles illustrate the range of architecture on view. They all were started during the medieval era (aka Middle Ages), which is about 500 to 1450 C.E. Here’s how to visit 14 of most impressive medieval castles in Europe and the United Kingdom.

Bellver Castle in Spain is a rare circular fortress

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1. Bellver Castle

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Bellver Castle is a 14th-century Gothic-style castle on a hill overlooking Palma de Mallorca. Built between 1300 and 1311, on the order of King James II of Mallorca, it is a rare circular castle, with a round courtyard in the middle. The moat was added later. Its elegant two-story interior of arches topped by a colonnade indicates that it was a royal residence, not simply a fortress. But by the early 18th century it became a military prison. The City History Museum, on the ground floor, helps put the building in context.

How to visit Bellver Castle

About two miles west of the center of Palma, the castle sits atop a hill, giving you a 360-degree view of the city and bay of Palma. You can drive to it on Camilo José Cela Road or take a local bus. It is open to visitors year round, Tuesday through Sunday. Free guided tours in English are available Tuesday to Saturday.

2. Château de Chillon

Veytaux, Switzerland

Not simply the most popular castle in Switzerland, Château de Chillon is also the most-visited historic building in the country. Part of that appeal is its location: on an island in Lake Geneva, which acts as a natural moat. Like many castles, additions and occupation continued after the Middle Ages, but the castle got its start in the mid-13th century. Gothic vaults from that time are visible in the prison.

And part of the appeal of this castle is its association with Lord Byron. A visit there in 1816 inspired him to write the epic poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.” It’s based on the story of Francois Bonivard, a political prisoner.

How to visit Château de Chillon

Public transport options to the Chillon include a 75-minute train ride from Geneva three times a day and a direct ferry from Lausanne in the morning that takes 90 minutes. By car, the castle is about 2.5 miles from Montreux, and it’s open year round, except for the last week of December. Among several options for guided tours, you can finish with a glass of Clos de Chillon wine.

3. Muiderslot (Muiden Castle)

Muiden, The Netherlands

Located nine miles southeast of Amsterdam , the formidable 13th-century castle of Muiderslot looms over the mouth of the Vecht River, where its fantastical round towers, dungeon, armory, and knights’ hall can be explored independently (with the help of an English-language audio guide or downloadable app). It’s especially entertaining for kids, who can dress up like knights, practice jousting, and, from April through October, watch a falconry display.

How to visit Muiderslot

Public buses operate from Amsterdam to Muiden, though you’ll have to change at several points. If you’re visiting from April through October, hop the daily ferry from Amsterdam’s IJburg marina and sail to the castle via IJmeer, a lake. Or rent a bike: An easy, scenic, signposted bike route to the castle from the city takes about 45 minutes.

4. Eilean Donan Castle

Dornie, Scotland

Fans of Highlander or James Bond’s The World Is Not Enough will likely recognize this picturesque Scottish Highlands castle, set on a small islet encircled by three sea lochs and accessible only by a stone footbridge. First built in the 13th century, Eilean Donan Castle served variously as a fortress, residence, and garrison during its long history before being almost entirely destroyed during the Jacobite rising of 1719. It lay in ruins for nearly 200 years until 1911, when a decades-long reconstruction began. Today, the castle, which you can visit with an audio guide, is largely a re-creation of what it looked like in the 18th century, complete with rich Jacobite-era decor, weapons, and artifacts.

How to visit Eilean Donan Castle

Note that Eilean Donan is closed in January. From Inverness, about two hours away, day tours and public buses offer direct access to the castle.

5. Bran Castle

Bran, Romania

Often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle,” this 57-room medieval fortress is said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s mythical count, based on the ruthless, real-life, 15th-century ruler Vlad the Impaler. Although it’s unlikely that Vlad ever visited Bran Castle , it’s easy to see how the legend stuck, especially during the atmospheric annual, late-night Halloween party . Perched on a steep cliff deep in the Carpathian Mountains of rural Transylvania, the striking red-turreted castle is awash with Gothic details; on an audio-guided tour, seek out the hidden winding staircases, underground passages, and chambers packed with medieval weapons and armor. But it was also home to Queen Marie of Romania from 1920 to 1938; she modernized the 14th-century castle, adding an elevator, and created a sprawling English garden replete with a teahouse.

How to visit Bran Castle

A bus from the city of Brasov, 18 miles away, runs regularly during the high season; Brasov is about three hours by train from Bucharest.

6. Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle)

Wierschem, Germany

Owned by the same family since it was built nearly 900 years ago, the beautifully preserved Burg Eltz—with eight soaring turreted towers, oriel windows, gables, and half-timber frames—looks straight out of a fairy tale. It juts out from a 230-foot-tall rock, surrounded by forest, deep in an isolated side valley of the Moselle River. A required 40-minute guided tour, in English, leads you through period rooms decorated with original 15th-century murals, tapestries, and furnishings, and vaulted halls lined with medieval armor and weaponry. The treasury, filled with gold and silver historical artifacts, can be visited independently.

How to visit Burg Eltz

Burg Eltz is open from April to November. A seasonal Burgenbus (castle bus) departs from several area train stations on weekends and holidays; the closest is Hatzenport, about a 20-minute ride. Hatzenport is less than 90 minutes by train from Cologne (with a change of trains in Koblenz). There are also multiple hikes to the castle from nearby towns; the most popular is from Moselkern (under 2.5 hours by train from Cologne), a moderately challenging 45-minute climb.

7. Château de Beynac

Beynac-et-Cazenac, France

This 12th-century fortress may not rank among the prettiest of France’s many castles , but its towering position, atop a sheer, 500-foot limestone cliff above the Dordogne River, certainly stands out. (Don’t miss the views from atop the battlements.) A double crenellated wall and twin moat protected Château de Beynac during the 100 Years War, and it’s one of the best-preserved in southwest France ’s Dordogne Valley. Pick up the audio tour and wander the austere, sparsely furnished rooms of the fortification, including the ancient keep, 13th-century kitchens, and the oratory, lined with 15th-century frescoes. Later rooms date from the 17th century and are decorated with ornate tapestries from the period.

How to visit Château de Beynac

You’ll need a car to get to Château de Beynac; there’s parking next to the castle or it’s a 15-minute walk up from the pretty village of Beynac-et-Cazenac, about a 2.5-hour drive east from Bordeaux .

8. Castle of Guimarães

Guimarães, Portugal

If you want to see where Portugal began, head to the Castle of Guimarães , the birthplace of the nation’s first king, Afonso Henriques, in 1109. It’s perched on a hill above the northern Portuguese city of Guimarães, the country’s first capital. Over hundreds of years, the blocky crenellated towers of the mighty Romanesque fortress defended the nation against Moorish, Norse, and Spanish invaders. In the 16th century, it fell into disuse and was used primarily as a prison; it was classified as a national monument in 1881 and later restored. There’s not much left inside the walls, but the nominal entrance fee gets you access to the ramparts and the central keep’s permanent exhibition about the history of Guimarães and its castle.

How to visit Castle of Guimarães

It’s about a 10-minute stroll up to the castle from Guimarães, which can be reached in about 1.5 hours by train from Porto. There’s also a car park directly behind the castle.

9. Český Krumlov Castle

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

For this epic castle, set on a promontory high above the Vltava River in South Bohemia, you’ll want to wear your walking shoes: It’s about a 15-minute uphill walk from the town of Český Krumlov and there are some 40 palaces and buildings, 5 palace courtyards, and a 17-acre park to explore. The UNESCO World Heritage site dates from the 13th to the 18th centuries and features a mishmash of Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque architectural styles.

There are two main guided tours to the interiors (required for access): One concentrates on the original castle interiors from the Renaissance and baroque periods and includes the ornate rococo Chapel of St. George; the second focuses on the history of the noble Schwarzenberg family, former owners of the castle. Highlights include the intricately painted, six-story belfry—climb its 162 steps for panoramic views—and for kids, the bear moat, an enclosure home to a family of four playful bears. Access to the gardens and the bear moat is free.

How to visit Český Krumlov Castle

Český Krumlov Castle is open from April to October. Located near the Austrian border, Český Krumlov is a three-hour bus ride from Prague ; from the town, the castle is accessible by foot, taxi, or car.

10. Conwy Castle

Conwy, Wales

Gazing at this vast, imposing stone fortress—one of four Welsh strongholds that Edward I of England constructed during his conquest of Wales—it’s hard to believe that it was built in just four years, between 1283 and 1287. With eight massive round towers, Conwy Castle sits on a promontory above the walled town of Conwy in North Wales, strategically overlooking two rivers and the harbor. Much of the interior is roofless, but the medieval royal apartments, which include the king’s chamber and a small chapel, are well-preserved. No tours are offered, but signage posted throughout provides historical information. Clamber around the battlements and climb the spiral staircases to the top of the towers for impressive views of the surrounding mountains of Snowdonia.

How to visit Conwy Castle

The castle can be reached along the 870-mile-long Wales Coast Path walking trail; for the less intrepid, the closest major city is Liverpool, less than two hours by train or car. The castle is about a half-mile from the Conwy train station or there is on-site parking.

11. Rochester Castle

Rochester, England

The 12th-century Rochester Castle , located in the county of Kent in southeast England, is very much in ruins, having withstood multiple sieges during its long history. Though the original 113-foot-high keep still stands, the rest of its vast interior is roofless. Pick up an audio tour for context, then roam atop the ancient battlements, which offer lovely views of the cobbled streets of Rochester and the Medway River below; parts of the crenellated curtain wall surrounding the castle date back to the late 11th century.

How to visit Rochester Castle

It’s a speedy 40-minute train ride to Rochester from London ’s St. Pancras station, and the castle is a 10-minute walk from there.

12. Malbork Castle

Malbork, Poland

Also known by a much longer name— The Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork —this is the largest brick fortress complex in the world, sprawling across 52 acres along the banks of the Nogat River in northern Poland . (Catch the highlights with an audio guide or, in the summer months, English-language guided tours.) Construction began in 1309, with a high castle and chapel fortified by moats and several defensive walls. In the 14th century, a low castle was added, along with several outbuildings.

The entire complex was virtually destroyed during heavy fighting in World War II; painstakingly rebuilt to its former glory, it’s now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle’s collections of amber, original 14th- and 15th-century furnishings, and medieval tombstones are nearly as splendid as its architectural details: towering arched ceilings, colorful frescoes, intricate tile work, and stained glass.

How to visit Malbork Castle

Malbork is a 30-minute train ride from Gdansk or around 2.5 hours from Warsaw; from the station, it’s about a 15-minute walk (or quicker taxi ride) to the castle.

13. Malahide Castle

Malahide, Ireland

Malahide Castle on the outskirts of Dublin was in the same family, the Talbots, for nearly 800 years. (It’s now owned by a local tourism company.) Initial construction began in the 12th century with many expansions throughout its history—including a seamless addition of two towers in 1765; the three-story main tower is original. Inside, the richly appointed rooms are decorated in a range of period styles; most impressive is the Gothic Great Hall, featuring soaring vaulted ceilings and walls lined with stern-faced portraits of Talbot descendants. The storybook setting, on 260 acres of parkland, features 5,000 plant varieties and a butterfly house. Guided tours of the castle (required for entry) take place daily.

How to visit Malahide Castle

The castle is a 25-minute drive from Dublin’s city center (there are also train and bus connections) or 10 minutes from Dublin airport.

14. Burg Hohenwerfen (Hohenwerfen Castle)

Werfen, Austria

A popular day trip from nearby Salzburg , the 11th-century stone fortress of Burg Hohenwerfen ticks all the boxes when it comes to medieval grandeur. There’s the dramatic setting, 500 feet up on a rocky perch (a funicular will save you the climb) overlooking the Salzach Valley and surrounded by towering peaks of the Tennen mountain range. The castle, dating from 1077 (though it’s seen additions throughout the centuries), also looks the part, with multiple towers, magnificent wood-beamed state rooms, a grand frescoed knights’ hall, a hidden stone staircase, an arsenal, a dungeon, and even a torture chamber. Self-guided audio tours are available, and there’s one tailored to kids. The castle is also home to the State Falconry Center, with daily demonstrations of Indigenous birds of prey.

How to visit Burg Hohenwerfen

The castle is open from April to November. There are direct trains from Salzburg to Werfen (lasting about 45 minutes); it’s a 20-minute walk to the castle’s funicular from the station. If you are driving from Salzburg, 25 miles away, there is an on-site parking lot, although note that it’s about a one-mile walk to the castle from there.

This article was originally published in 2019 and most recently updated on October 16, 2023 with current information.

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10 Extraordinary Castles Near Kraków for a Perfect Day Trip

If you ever find yourself in Krakow with a day to spare, I am sure that a trip to the Kraków’s nearby castles would be a fantastic idea. Krakow is surrounded by an intriguing array of castles, ranging from the remnants of the historical Eagle’s Nests trail to other intriguing architectural gems.

Let me say, not all of them are ruins. Some still proudly stand tall. Now, allow me to introduce you to 10 of the most captivating castles in Lesser Poland, each with its unique allure. So, are you ready to figure out the most enchanting one?

• If you like castles, I suggest you also read this article I wrote: The Ultimate Guide to Poland’s Abandoned Palaces [GPS]

Wieliczka’s Saltworks Castle

You will find Wieliczka just a short hop from Krakow and in my opinion it is truly worth the visit. The key to getting there is braving the traffic on Wielicka Street. While the town is famed for its salt mines, it has another feather in its cap: the royal Saltworks Castle . This castle, pieced together between the 13th to the 19th century, once served as the administrative hub for both the Wieliczka and Bochnia salt mines.

Nowadays, the Saltworks Museum has found a home within its historic walls. As you roam its rooms, you’ll discover an impressive assortment of exhibits from a humble salt shaker display to a Gothic room. If you want to drink in this slice of history, just know that the entrance fee is a mere PLN 8.

↳ Make sure to read my guide to the most amazing places to stay in Kraków: How to Find Best Place to Stay in Krakow Old Town – Your Guide

• You may also like to read: A Tour of Poland’s UNESCO Sites: Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines

The Legendary Tenczyn Castle in Rudno

Just 36 kilometers from Krakow’s bustling Market Square, you’ll come upon the historic ruins of Tenczyn Castle in Rudno. Perched on Góra Zamkowa’s summit, these ruins were once part of the legendary Eagle’s Nests system. This castle boasts a history dating back to 1308.

• Google Pictures and Maps Location: Tenczyn Catle

The Potockis, the castle’s last owners, were sadly stripped of their property, but recently, the castle has been returned to its rightful heirs. While the ruins may be weather-worn and closed during winter, I believe they still hold a lot of charm. If you’re curious to learn more about this castle and its history, feel free to delve deeper with additional resources and photos.

• Do You like castles? Maybe it is good idea to spend a nigh in such place? Then, I suggest you read this article: Living Like Royalty – Castle Hotels in Poland That Offer a Majestic Stay

Pieskowa Skała Castle Near Kraków

Pieskowa Skała and its idyllic setting is another worthy contender for Krakow’s fascinating vicinity. Nestled in the village of Sułoszowa, Pieskowa Skała Castle has been standing since 1315. King Casimir the Great recognized its strategic position and included it in the illustrious Eagle’s Nests system.

• Google Pictures and Location: Pieskowa Skala Castle

As centuries rolled on, the castle blossomed in architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance to Baroque. Even after being ravaged by the Swedes and enduring numerous fires, it managed to survive. Sadly, in 1850, the High Castle was lost forever. However, it’s worth to say that today, it serves as a museum under the Wawel Castle Museum and remains the best-preserved castle from the Eagles’ Nests system.

Discover Ojców Castle

After you’ve experienced the magnificence of Pieskowa Skała, I think you’d love another dose of the legendary Eagles’ Nests. For that, look no further than the Prądnik Valley, where the Ojców Castle is waiting for you. Built under the command of Casimir the Great, this castle has seen the passage of time and even endured the Swedish invasion.

• Google Pictures and Location: Ojców Castle

Unfortunately, it was abandoned in the 19th century, and despite the best efforts of owner Ludwik Krasiński, much of it couldn’t be saved. After World War I, the Czartoryski family attempted a restoration, which wasn’t entirely successful. Today, you can admire the castle’s entrance and drink in the breathtaking view of the Prądnik Valley from the ruins.

Rabsztyn Castle

On your journey from Krakow, after Ojców and Pieskowa Skała , it is worth travelling 21 km towards Olkusz to visit another castle, the Rabsztyn Castle. Nestled in the village of Rabsztyn , this castle first came into existence in the 13th century. King Casimir the Great later transformed it into a formidable fortress.

• Google Pictures and Location:

Tragically, retreating Swedes left the castle in ruins, and it suffered further damage at the hands of treasure hunters in the 19th century. However, there’s still hope as efforts are underway to restore the castle. The Rabszyn Castle Association even hosts knight tournaments here, adding to its allure. Unfortunately, as of 2019, it is not open for visits.

Ogrodzieniec Castle

Don’t be quick to dismiss the Ogrodzieniec Castle as mere ruins. This castle, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, has an intriguing past. The castle suffered at the hands of the Swedes in 1655, and a fire ravaged its structure. Despite several attempts to restore it, another fire in 1702 led to its abandonment.

• Google Pictures and Location: Ogrodzieniec Castle

After the war, the castle was plundered, and its walls were used as a source of building materials. But I can tell you, its history and remnants are still quite fascinating. And if you are intrigued by the supernatural, you might be interested to know that the famous Black Dog is said to haunt these ruins! A visit to these ruins and the nearby hillfort on Góra Burów costs PLN 18. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy a slightly commercial, but still indulgent atmosphere.

Dobczyce – The Royal Castle

The royal castle in Dobczyce is another ruin you shouldn’t miss when exploring castles near Krakow. The castle’s origns can be traced back to 1362, but it was fortified much earlier. Under Casimir the Great, it was one of the most crucial fortresses. The castle switched owners multiple times, including the rule of the Lubomirskis. It survived the first Swedish invasion, unlike many castles around Krakow, only to be destroyed in the second invasion in 1702.

• Google Pictures and Location: Dobczyce Castle

Like the High Castle in Lviv, it fell into disrepair, only to be partially restored recently. It now houses a PTTK museum. Let me say, the castle hill provides a stunning view of the dam in Dobczyce. The museum visit costs a mere PLN 7.

Wiśnicz Castle

For those of you who aren’t keen on ruins, the castle in Wiśnicz is perfect. Commissioned by Jan Kmita in the 16th century, it features a mix of Baroque and Renaissance styles, surrounded by 17th-century fortifications. Over the years, it passed through various hands, including the Sanguszkos, Potockis, and Zamoyskis, and even the Austrian invader.

• Google Pictures and Location: Wiśnicz Castle

The castle’s restoration has been ongoing since the last century. The interiors might not dazzle you, but they’re worth exploring. You’ll find old paintings, furniture, and fireplaces, as well as restored parquet floors and ceilings. The castle visit and the VR bastion cost PLN 24, while exploring the chapel and the Lubomirski tomb will cost another PLN 10.

Niepołomice Castle

Niepołomice near Kraków is known for its forest walks, but there’s more to it. At the heart of the town, you’ll find the Royal Castle in Niepołomice . Like many castles, it was commissioned by Casimir the Great. It was a launching pad for royal hunting expeditions in the nearby forest rather than a defensive structure.

• Google Pictures and Location: Niepołomice Castle

After a destructive Swedish invasion, the castle was renovated by the Austrian invader. Today, it houses a museum showcasing a collection of old paintings.

Sucha Beskidzka – Suski Castle

The Renaissance Suski Castle in Sucha Beskidzka was home to several prominent aristocratic families, including the Castiglione-Suski, Komorowski, Wielkopolski, Branicki, and Tarnowski. The estate’s courtyard is sometimes referred to as the „small Wawel”.A brick estate was constructed here after a fire destroyed the wooden Słupski manor house.

• Google Pictures and Location: Suski Castle

Post World War II, the castle was plundered, and various institutions were housed here, including a gymnasium, boarding school, factory, and warehouse. Today, the Kasper Suski hotel and restaurant occupy the ground floor, offering affordable main courses around PLN 30. You can even stay overnight for PLN 160 for a double room, despite the interiors not being overly luxrious. The remaining part of the castle is occupied by the City Museum and MOK.

So, if you want a royal experience, be sure to explore these captivating castles near Krakow. Each one, I am convinced, is a gem with its own unique charm.

References:

• https://www.trasadlabobasa.pl/tab/legenda/zamki_i_ruiny_w_okolicach_krakowa/624
• https://zamki.fotoin.net/zamki-w-poblizu/krakow

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Visit European Castles

35 Must-Visit Castles in the South of France

The South of France is a region that has captured the hearts of many, with its stunning Mediterranean coastline, rich cultural history, and delicious culinary delights. From the glamour of the French Riviera to the rugged beauty of the Pyrenees Mountains, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this amazing part of the world.

There are many castles in the south of France, with a rich history and cultural significance. Many of these castles were built during the Middle Ages and served as defensive structures, as well as being the residence of French Kings and aristocrats. Many of these historic castles are now a historic monument and are open to visitors. Here, you can learn more about the fascinating history of the area and marvel at the spectacular views as many castles are built on hills and rocks.

In this post, you will find the best castles in the South of France that you should visit. Some of these French châteaux are already a popular tourist attraction but you will also find a few hidden gems that you can visit. At the end of the post you will find a map with these castles in the South of France.

See also these articles with fairytale castles in France:

• The Best Castles in the Loire Valley (including Château de Chenonceau and Château de Cheverny)
• The Best Castles in the dordogne
• Visit the Former Royal Palaces in France (including Château de Fontainebleau)

Palais des Papes

The Palais de Papes, also known as the Palace of the Popes, is a remarkable piece of architectural and historical significance overlooking the Rhône riverin Avignon, France. It is the largest and most important Gothic palace in the world. It covers an area of approximately 11,000 square meters and it was built between 1335 and 1364 during the Avignon Papacy.

The palace served as the residence of the Popes during their exile from Rome and contains a variety of chapels, halls, and chambers, including the Chapel of the Popes and the Great Audience Chamber. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is now open to visitors .

Château de Peyrepertuse

Located on a hill in the French Pyrenees stands the Castle of Peyrepertuse. The ruined caste is one of the largest Cathar castles (medieval castles in the Languedoc region that offered refuge to dispossessed Cathars). The castle was built in the 11th century by the lords of the Carcassonais region and is located on a rocky promontory at an altitude of 800 meters. The castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being in a state of ruin, the castle is open to the public and is a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts.

Château de Castelnaud

Château de Castelnaud is a well-preserved medieval fortress located in the Dordogne region of France. It was built in the 12th century and is located on a rocky hill overlooking the Dordogne River. The castle has a long history of military conflict, having been involved in the Hundred Years’ War between England and France in the 14th and 15th centuries. Today, it is open to the public as a museum and features a collection of medieval weapons and armor, as well as interactive exhibits and demonstrations of medieval crafts.

Château Royal de Collioure

Château Royal de Collioure is a former Royal castle that was built in the 13th century by the Counts of Roussillon and the Kings of Aragon. The castle is located close to the Spanish border and until the 17th century it was owned by the Spanish, including the Kings of Mallorca.

The castle is built on top of a Roman castrum overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the town of Collioure. Today, the castle is open to visitors as a museum .  

Château Borély

This 18th century chateau is located in a large park in  Marseille. The castle was built by the Borély family, who were an influential family in those days. The neoclassical building was transformed into a museum and today it is the home of the Museum of Decorative Arts, Earthenware and Fashion.

Château de Lourmarin

Lourmarin Castle is a medieval castle in the Provence region of France. The castle was originally a 12th century fortress but from the 15th century it was transformed into the first Renaissance building in the Provence. Today, the castle is a museum showcasing a collection of furniture, engravings, art, and musical instruments.

Château de Beynac

Beynac Castle is a medieval castle perched high upon a cliff overlooking the Dordogne region. The castle was built in the 2th century by the barons of Beynac to protect the valley and features double crenellated walls, double moats, and a double barbican.

The castle’s oldest part is a Romanesque keep with attached watch towers and a narrow spiral staircase. The castle also has a 14th century residence, a 16th and 17th century residence, and a 17th century apartment with woodwork and a painted ceiling. Today, the castle is open to visitors where they can see tapestries and other artifacts from the Lords of the Castle.

Château de Simiane la Rotonde

The Castle of Simiane la Rotonde is a castle located in the village of Simiane-la-Rotonde in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department. It is known for its seigniorial dwelling and the keep called the rotunda with its impressive dome and stone ribs, which is an impressive example of Provençal Romanesque art.

The rotunda dates from the end of the 12th or beginning of the 13th century, while the rest of the castle dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. The castle was abandoned in the 16th century and part of it collapsed in the 18th century. The castle has been restored and now hosts visitors, exhibitions, and events.

Château de Commarque

The Castle of Commarque is a castle located in the Dordogne region of France. It was built in the 12th century to protect the Benedictine abbey of Sarlat and initially consisted of a simple wooden tower on a cliff. Over time, the castle was expanded and occupied by various lineages of small nobility, including the Beynac family.

It was occupied by the English during the Hundred Years War and was abandoned after the death of the last squire, Guy de Beynac, in 1656. In 1972, the castle was bought by Hubert de Commarque, who began the process of rescuing and restoring it. The castle is now open to visitors, offering guided tours in English in French and workshops in archery, stone carving, and more. Visit the website for more information.

Château de la Napoule

The Château de la Napoule is a 14th century castle located near Nice that has been restored by the American couple Henry and Marie Clews. The castle has a rich history, having been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries. During the Second World War, Marie acted as the maid of the castle so that she could continue living there during the German occupation.

Henry and Marie not only restored the castle, but also its gardens, which feature elements of a French formal garden, an English landscape garden, and three smaller gardens in an Italian style. Marie also founded the La Napoule Art Foundation, which now uses the castle as a cultural center that is open to the public.

Château de Tarascon

Tarascon Castle is a 15th century Gothic castle, located on the banks of the Rhone. The castle is also named Château du Bon Roi René, after the last builder King René d’Anjou. The castle has 45-meter-high walls with two round towers (a Clock Tower and Chapel Tower).

Apart from a Royal residence, the castle also served as a prison for many centuries. Throughout the castle, you will find graffiti engravings on the walls from al the prisoners that stayed there. Not just French prisoners stayed at this castle, but you can also find graffiti from Spanish, English, and Dutch prisoners.  

Today, the castle is home to the René d’Anjou Art Center where you can see the collection of René d’Anjou together with contemporary art exhibitions.

Château des Baux de Provence

Located in the heart of the Provence stand the remains of the Château des Baux de Provence. The fortified castle is located atop the plateau of Les Baux to protect the occupants and the town while also being the perfect spot to observe the surrounding countryside. Visitors to the castle can see the castle ruins as well as replicas of huge siege engines and the biggest trebuchet in Europe.     

Château de Gordes

The Castle of Gordes is an 11th century castle, located in the heart of the village. Built around 300 meters above sea level it overlooks the village and the surrounding countryside in the Luberon Regional Natural Park. The castle was rebuilt in the early 16th century when it got its Renaissance appearance. The castle is now home to a museum.

Château de Foix

Château de Foix is a castle in the Ariège region of France. It was built in the style of a 7th-century fortification and served as the capital of the County of Foix from 1034. It played a significant role in medieval military history and served as a refuge for Cathars during the crusade against the Albigensians.

From 1479, the Counts of Foix became Kings of Navarre and the last of them, Henri IV of France, annexed the Pyrrenean lands to France. The castle served as a garrison and prison until 1862, and since 1930 it has housed the Ariège départemental museum, which focuses on the history of the castle site and the life of Foix at the time of the Counts.

Château de Val

Château de Val is a 13th century castle in the town of Lanobre. The castle was built on a rock of 30 meters high overlooking the valley. After a flood in 1946 the castle was abandoned, however the water never reached the castle. Today, the castle is located on the edge of an artificial lake and it is open to visitors.

Château de Roquetaillade

The Castle of Roquetaillade was built in the 13th century and has been inhabited by the same family for over 700 years. The original castle was built by Charlemagne on his way to the Pyrenees with Roland, but nothing remains of this structure. In 1306, Cardinal de la Mothe received permission from the English King Edward I to build a new fortress, known as le Château Neuf. This castle was square in shape with six towers and a central keep and was restored and transformed by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century.

The interior decorations, including furnishings and paintings, were also created by Viollet-le-Duc and are listed as French Heritage. The château park includes remains of the medieval curtain wall, a barbican, a 19th century chalet, and a pigeon loft. The castle has been open to the public and is the most visited castle in the Bordeaux region.

Château Comtal

Comtal Castle is a medieval castle located in the city of Carcassone. The castle was built in the 12th century and served as the residence of the Counts of Carcassonne. The castle is located within the walls of the Cité de Carcassonne, a well-preserved medieval fortified city. It is now open to the public as a museum, showcasing the history of the castle and the city of Carcassonne.

Château de Sommières

Château de Sommières is a 10th century fortress that was built by the house of Bermond, lords of Anduze and Sauve. In the 13th century the castle became a royal fortress and it was besieges during multiple wars that followed. The castle was left to ruin but in recent years the castle and the castle chapel have been restored.

Château de Flaugergues

Château de Flaugergues is a large country house outside Montpellier in Southern France. The house was built by Etienne de Flaugergues as one of the many folies that was built in the region. Folies are country houses that were built by aristocrats and served as summer houses.

In 1811, the house was bought by the Boussairolles family who also designed the orangerie and the English-style garden. The main features of this country house are the staircase which occupies a quarter of the entire home, rare Flemish tapestries, and refined furniture. The house and gardens are open to visitors and you can also find a restaurant on the estate.     

Châteaux de Lastours

The Châteaux de Lastours are four Cathar castles located on a rocky spur above the village of Lastours to control the access to Montagne Noire and the Cabardes region. The four medieval castles called Cabaret, Tour Régine, Surdespine, and Quertinheux are now in ruins but in the 13th century they were the center of religious activity by the Cathars. These four castles are some of the few Cathar castles that have survived.

Château de Saissac

Château de Saissac is a medieval Cathar castle northwest of Carcassone in the Aude region. The castle was built in a strategic location at the entry of the Montagne Noire and it was the residence of the powerful Tencavel family. After the French revolution, the castle fell into ruin but in recent years it has been restored in 16th century style.

Château de Lagarde

Château de Lagarde is a ruined castle overlooking the valley near the village of Lagarde. The castle was first mentioned in the 10th century and over time it was enlarged and modified by adding Gothic features. The castle was partially destroyed during the French revolution only leaving several towers and the curtain wall.

Château de Montségur

Château de Montségur is a fortress located in the French Pyrenees. It is often described as the stronghold of the Cathars however the present castle building is not the Cathar fortification. The castle ruins you see today is a post medieval Royal French defensive structure that dates from the 17th century.

Montségur Castle is known for its solar alignment characteristics, which are particularly visible on the morning of the summer solstice. This phenomenon, in which two windows in the fortress wall align. This solar alignment makes Montségur Castle stand out from other castles.     

Château de Puilaurens

Château de Puilaurens is a castle located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France. It was built in the 10th century and was associated with the Cathars in the 13th century. The beautiful medieval castle was built on a rocky hill to protect the region. It became a target of the French monarchy and was captured and transformed into a military stronghold. After the French Revolution, the castle was abandoned, but its ruins are well-preserved. From the Château de Puilaurens you have a great view of the surrounding countryside. Guided tours are offered from April to November.

Château de Milandes

Château de Milandes is a 15th century castle in the Dordogne. The castle was built as the main residence of the Lord of Caumont who also owned Castelnaud Castle. François de Caumont built the caste for his wife who wanted a less gloomier home. In the 19th century more neo Gothic and neo Renaissance elements were added such as towers and balconies. In 1908, the French garden was added to the castle.

The castle is perhaps best known for being the residence of American singer Joséphine Baker. The castle is now open to visitors .     

Château de Bonaguil

The Castle of Bonaguil is a castle in the commune of Saint-Front-sur-Lémance, France. It was built in the 13th century and was extensively restructured in the late 15th and early 16th centuries by Bérenger de Roquefeuil, who added various defensive features. It is known for its military architecture and covers an area of 7500 square meters. Despite its defensive capabilities, the castle was never attacked. The name “Bonaguil” comes from the French phrase “bonne aiguille,” meaning “good needle,” which refers to the steep, rocky promontory on which the castle is built. The castle is now open to visitors .

Château de Quéribus

The Château de Quéribus is a ruined castle in the Aude department of France. It is one of the “Five Sons of Carcassonne”, along with Aguilar, Peyrepertuse, Termes and Puilaurens, which were strategically placed to defend the French border against the Spanish. Quéribus is sometimes known as the last Cathar stronghold, as surviving Cathars gathered there after the fall of Montségur in 1244. The ruined castle has been restored and can now be visited.  

Château de Châteauneuf du Pape

The Castle of Châteauneuf, also known as The Popes’ Castle, was a defensive castle and summer residence for the Avignon Popes in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It was built between 1317 and 1333 by Pope John XXII and featured a large central building with four towers and three large rooms, including a pontifical cellar used for storing wine, oils, and salted meats.

The castle also had a ceremonial room for pontifical banquets and receptions and the private apartments of the Pope. After the Popes returned to Rome in the 15th century, the castle was abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was damaged during the Wars of Religion and World War II, and only the dungeon, southern wall, and lower pontifical cellar remain today. The castle is now a historical monument and is used for local receptions and wine events.

Château de Boulbon

Fifteen minutes south of Avignon, at the foot of the Montagnette massif, stands the Castle of Boulbon .  The castle was built in the 11th century in a strategic location on the border of the County of Porvence and the Kingdom of France. The castle has several owners, including Raymon de Turenne and King René d’Anjou. The oldest part of the castle which overlooks the Rhone Valley, is the Keep. The curtain wall surrounding the dungeon date from a later century.

The main part of the castle is the stately home that consisted of thirty rooms. The remains of the double spiral staircase are still visible from the gardens.     

Château Medieval de Roquebrune

Roquebrune Castle, also known as Grimaldi Castle, is a medieval fortress located in France. It was built in the 10th century by Count Conrad I of Ventimiglia and was owned and inhabited by the Grimaldi family for many centuries. The castle is known for its ancient donjon, which is the oldest of its kind in France, and for being the only remaining example of Carolingian architecture in the country.

The castle was gifted to the city by William Ingram, and is now open to the public. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the castle.

Château de Montauban

Château de Montauban is a 19th century manor house in Fontvieille. It was the summer residence of the Ambroy family that was often visited by the writer and poet Alphonse Daudet. Today, the house is a museum showing the history of Fontvieille as well as an exhibition dedicated to Alphonse Daudet. After a visit to the house, you can wander through the surrounding park. Please note that the majority of the museum is in French.

Château de Vauvenargues

Château de Vauvenargues is a fortified bastide in the Provence that is best known as the house and final resting place of painter Pablo Picasso. The house was the seat of the Counts of Provence and the Archbishops of Aix in the Middle Ages. In the 17th century, it was transformed into a family home for the Marquis de Vauvenargues.

In 1958, artist Pablo Picasso bought the house to have a more quiet residence after living in Cannes. Pablo Picasso and his wife Jacqueline are both buried on the estate. The house is still a private residence of the Picasso family and therefore not open to the public.      

Chateau Grimaldi – Musée Picasso

The Musée Picasso, formerly known as the Château Grimaldi, is located in Antibes, France. It was built on the foundations of the ancient Greek town Antipolis and was originally constructed in the late 14th century as a residence for the feudal lords Marc and Luc Grimaldi.

From 1925 until 1946, the castle was known as the Grimaldi Museum. During this time, it was also the home of Pablo Picasso for a period of six months, during which he created 23 paintings and 44 sketches that were left in the castle. Over the years, additional works by Picasso have been donated to the museum, which has since been renamed the Picasso Museum.

Château Pastré

Château Pastré is a 19th century manor in Marseille designed in Louis XIII style. The Château is located in the heart of the Campagne Pastré, a large park spanning 112 hectares with beautiful gardens, lakes, and pods. From the hill, you will have a wonderful view of Marseille. The chateau is not open to visitors, but you can enjoy the outside from the park.

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12 Abandoned Castles To Visit In England

There are over 100 abandoned castles in England. These castles were once magnificent homes or defensive strongholds, some of them dating back to the middle ages.

However, many of them lie empty and have fallen into disrepair due to a lack of funds. Historical buildings and old castles in the UK are of interest to many for their fairytale appearance.

Although some medieval castles hold histories of horror, tragedy, and legendary misfortunes. Regardless of their sordid sagas, our fascination for exploring a ruined castle continues to grow.

But there is unexpected beauty in those stone walls. After all, abandoned castles, compared to modern buildings, contain so much attention to detail.

How can you not marvel at an impressive structure from the 16th century, before the invention of modern technology and machinery?

From restored homes like  Leeds Castle in Kent  to derelict structures, each one holds an interesting story. For instance, did you know the  Tower of London  once housed a royal zoo with elephants, lions, and monkeys?

Here are some great castle ruins worth visiting in England.

1. Ludlow Castle

• Location:  Ludlow Square, Shropshire | Nearest train station : Ludlow

Even though Ludlow Castle is located in Shropshire, it served as the headquarters for the Council of the Welsh Marches for many years. William the Conqueror created marches or borders to defend land adjacent to England.

Built of 11th-century limestone, its origins date back to a nobleman, Walter de Lacy. Its location high on a bluff next to the River Teme made it a great military stronghold.

During the 15th century, the Crown took over the Norman fortress, putting it on the map. It remained a royal residence for 350 years.

However, in later years, the castle went from a royal castle to ruins when it was abandoned and became a haven for looters.

Since 1811, the Earls of Powis have owned the structure. With the help of the English Heritage, they have taken steps to preserve the castle and continue to work on important restoration.

2. Kenilworth Castle

• Location:  Castle Green, Kenilworth, Warwickshire |  Nearest train station: Kenilworth

Made mainly from red sandstone, Kenilworth Castle is an architectural masterpiece. Rich in history, this structure went from being a fortress to an Elizabethan Palace and once was home to a king.

This is one of the better castle ruins in England, and it’s not every day you can see a red-brick castle.

Admission (which is very reasonable) includes a visit to the tower built by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, to court Elizabeth I. It’s easy to imagine the opulence and grandeur of this structure during its early days.

It’s a shame the Elizabethan Gardens were destroyed centuries ago.

However, the designer replicated the original 16th-century garden design. This includes a Renaissance fountain of white marble at the center.

It was surrounded by geometrically designed garden areas set off by boxwood hedges and an aviary on one side.

Like Corfe Castle, Kenilworth Castle was partly torn down by Parliamentary forces in the 17th century to prevent its use as a military stronghold.

From the 18th century onwards, the castle became a tourist destination. In 1958, the owner gave the castle to Kenilworth, and English Heritage has managed the property since 1984.

Although a derelict ruin, the English Heritage has added walkways and staircases so guests can climb to the top and marvel at the fantastic views.

3. Bodiam Castle

• Location:  Robertsbridge, East Sussex |  Nearest train station: Robertsbridge

Crumbling Bodiam Castle  is one of the best-loved abandoned castles in the UK. Its picturesque moat makes it a quintessential fairy tale castle and a top  castle to see in England .

Located in East Sussex and built by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, it is the quintessential castle. The British castle appears restored from the outside, but the inside is mostly gone.

The reason for the construction of Bodiam Castle has been hotly debated. Many believe it was established as a military stronghold due to its proximity to France.

But with thin walls, full windows, and a shallow moat, others think it was made for entertainment purposes.

Constructed in 1385, the castle is a basic square shape with no keep. While there is not much left of the inside, visitors can climb the winding staircases to the upper walls.

At the top, the views of the Sussex countryside and inner courtyard were magnificent.

Over the years, Bodiam Castle starred in many movies, including Robin Hood, Dr. Who, and Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Although Bodiam is in ruins, it is being maintained by the National Trust, which helps to preserve the structure.

After one visit, most agree it’s one of England’s most beautiful abandoned castles.

The White Hart Inn provides lovely accommodation in the area. Guests have access to a bar, restaurant, and complimentary WiFi.

4. Pevensey Castle

• Location:  Castle Rd, Pevensey, East Sussex |  Nearest train station: Pevensey Bay

Just a half-hour drive from Bodiam Castle is the medieval ruins of Pevensey Castle in East Sussex. Since these castles are close together, you can  visit both Sussex attractions  on the same day.

Pevensey Castle was once a former Roman Saxon Shore fort.

This impressive structure is renowned as the landing place of William the Conqueror’s army in 1066. During its prime, it endured numerous sieges throughout its long history.

It also served as a prison for some famous individuals like King James I of Scotland. The castle began to decay in the 14th century and crumbled quite rapidly.

A large curtain wall constructed by different workers surrounds Pevensey Castle. Sections of this wall are very different due to the materials used. Its gatehouse is one of the predominant features.

If you plan to visit Pevensey Castle, it’s good to note that guided tours do not exist. So, purchase a guidebook or audio guide at the gift shop, which contains a wealth of information. If you’re a history lover, these English castle ruins beg for exploration.

5. Goodrich Castle

• Location:  Goodrich, Herefordshire |  Nearest train station: Drybrook Road

Built on a study bedrock above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle controlled a critical location between Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth. Built after the Norman invasion of England, its original building materials came from earth and wood. Stone later replaced the earth and wooden keep.

In the 1640s, after the civil war, it became one of the abandoned castles in England. Since the medieval castle no longer served as a defensive structure, they removed the battlements. By the 18th century, it became a full-blown tourist attraction.

Another century later, wild roses and ivy encased the castle ruins, giving them a softer, more romantic appearance. However, the aggressively growing greenery became a hazard and made the ruins unstable.

The Office of Works took responsibility for Goodrich in 1920, clearing the vegetation and strengthening the stonework. Since 1984, English Heritage has been responsible for the conservation of the castle ruins.

They also maintain safety for all those that visit there. If you are looking for an excellent example of military architecture to visit, consider a trip to Goodrich Castle.

6. Dunstanburgh Castle

• Location:  Dunstanburgh Rd, Craster, Northumberland |  Nearest train station: Alnmouth

The magnificent ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle tower over the Northumberland coastline. Owned by the National Trust and maintained by English Heritage, a trip to the castle makes for a peaceful day out due to its location by the ocean.

Thomas, the 2nd Earl of Lancaster, built the castle in 1313, which later passed to John the Gaunt. In haste, John the Gaunt made some poor modifications to the castle. As a result, the castle began to crumble.

The War of the Roses (1455-1485) and the attack on the castle further contributed to its decline. Dunstanburgh Castle succumbed to ruins and remained abandoned.

Throughout its history, and because of its remote location, the country did not consider Dunstanburgh Castle as a military stronghold. For the most part, it served as a place of refuge during Scottish raids and a landing place for nobility traveling to Scotland.

If you plan to visit Dunstanburgh Castle, wear your comfy shoes. The walk from the parking lot in Craster will clock you 1-1/2 miles. Approaching the castle, the twin towers of the gatehouse remain mostly intact.

Although this impressive structure remains abandoned, it is easy to envision how grand this castle was in its prime.

7. Newark Castle

• Location:  Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire |  Nearest train station: Newark Castle

Built during the 12th century in Newark-on-Trent, timber was the chief material of Newark Castle. Five hundred years later, the castle was dismantled and restored in the 19th century after the English civil war.

History of the Castle includes the death of King John, Knights Templar, Civil War, and the War of the Roses. Today, the castle is pretty well a skeleton. Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful bag of bones.

A visit to Newark Castle includes terrific views of the town of Trent and the surrounding countryside. On a sunny day, walk the restored gardens and imagine what life was like there hundreds of years ago.

The guides at the castle are very knowledgeable and friendly and quite witty at times. If you want to immerse yourself in the history of this imposing castle, be sure to schedule a tour.

8. Corfe Castle

• Location: The Square, Wareham, Dorset | Nearest train station: Corfe Castle

Soaring above Corfe village in Dorset, the romantic ruins of Corfe Castle are an unforgettable sight. The town and castle stand over a gap in the Purbeck Hills, with the village lying below the castle.

The word “Corfe” comes from the Saxon word ceorfan, which means cutting or carving, referring to the gap in the hills where the castle sits.

Constructed in 1086 for King William I, the original structure was a Norman tower-and-keep design. Corfe Castle stood as a stronghold for almost 600 years.

After six centuries of defending the area from enemies, an Act of Parliament ordered the castle’s destruction.

While abandoned, this crumbling castle in Dorset, England, is still a treasure to see. Afterward, the village reused some of the ruined stones in their buildings. During a visit to Corfe Castle, visitors view a model village, which shows what the castle looked like in its prime.

Feel history come alive as you see the surrounding area from the fascinating ruins. It’s hard to believe the destruction of this once-impressive structure is a result of the government.

Today, the  National Trust   maintains the duties of caring for this impressive abandoned castle. And some say a headless woman haunts the castle battlements.

It’s no secret that Britain is old, very old. Consequently, ancient castle ruins, abandoned farms, and factories riddle the country.

9. Old Wardour Castle

• Location: Tisbury, Salisbury | Nearest train station: Tisbury

Due to its early beginnings in the 1300s and its extensive battle action in 1643, it’s not surprising that Old Wardour Castle is in ruins. During the besiege, which lasted three months, the castle’s structure was weakened, and two towers were destroyed.

Old Wardour Castle differs from others due to its hexagonal shape. It’s the only hexagonal castle in England. The initial design featured four stories surrounding a central courtyard, and it’s believed it was constructed for entertaining, not for battle.

After the structure was weakened in 1643, the Arundell family chose not to rebuild the original castle but constructed living quarters from the outbuildings instead. In the 18th century, the occupants built a New Wardour, and the Old remained a ruin.

Today, the crumbling ruins are managed by the English Heritage. Even though the castle was never restored, visitors can enjoy the romantic ruins and climb some of its remaining towers for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

10. Peveril Castle

• Location:  Market Pl, Castleton, Hope Valley |  Nearest train station:  Hope

Peveril Castle stands as a powerful reminder of the Norman influences in England. Located in the Peak District, a national park since 1951, Peveril Castle is one of England’s oldest Norman fortresses.

The ancient castle is roughly triangular in shape, and its keep was built by Henry II in 1176. The towering ruins sit atop a steep hill with an almost sheer face to the southeast. Its imposing location gave it a natural defense and stood as an emblem of power.

Visitors to Peveril Castle can find out more about its history at the visitor center and explore the ruins before taking in breathtaking views over the Hope Valley from one of Castleton’s highest points.

Don’t miss the curious garderobe (medieval lavatory), which is still intact!

Wolvesey Castle

• Location: Winchester, Hampshire | Nearest train station: Winchester

Also maintained by the British Heritage, the initial Wolvesey Castle in the English county of Hampshire dates back to the 1100s. The initial structure, built by Bishop de Blois, resembled more of a palace than a castle.

Wolvesey Castle was the Bishop of Winchester’s private residence and was often called the “Old Bishop’s Palace.” The stately home was built in stages, and there were many additions and renovations.

No longer home to powerful rulers, the castle was eventually demolished in 1680 and replaced by a nearby palace constructed in the Baroque style.

While much of the actual castle is ruinous, visitors can tour the keep, gatehouse, two towers, and stables. Outside, you can explore the extensive castle grounds, which are well-maintained.

Wolvesey Castle is open to the public during daylight hours with no admission fee.

Beeston Castle

• Location:  Chapel Lane, Beeston, Cheshire |  Nearest train station:  Chester

Built in the 13th century, the ruins of Beeston Castle preside majestically atop a 500-foot high sandstone cliff. This ancient fortress stands as evidence of its Bronze Age origin.

Even though it was begun by Ranulf, Earl of Chester (1170-1232), construction was not completed before his death. Instead of having a keep, like in many Norman castles, Beeston is ringed by strong curtain walls.

Beeston Castle was once a royal residence owned by King Henry III. He expanded the castle and maintained it until the mid-17th century. Despite its damage, it draws visitors with its breathtaking views out onto the Cheshire plain and nearby Wales.

The outer walls wrap around with small towers fitting snugly into the hillside. Aside from natural erosion and damage over time, parts of the wall have been destroyed.

However, visitors can still observe 3 D-shaped surviving towers. Just across the hills resides Peckforton Castle providing a stark contrast between modern Victorian Gothic architecture and Beeston’s authentic medieval stronghold.

Final Thoughts

From crumbling abandoned castles to derelict medieval buildings, these English ruins are eye candy to photographers and history buffs. Sometimes while the walls are crumbling, some parts of the interiors have stood the test of time.

This is the case at the  Roman Palace in Fishbourne .  Its magnificent mosaic floors are remarkably preserved and available to view in a cavernous building that stands where the Palace stood. Located in West Sussex, Fishbourne Roman Palace makes for a great day trip in England’s south.

Now England isn’t the only place that houses these treasured buildings. Scotland, Wales, and Ireland have their fair share of castle ruins too.

Whether it’s the ancient stories or the beauty of new growth within a relic, each structure holds its own uniqueness. While most will visit some famous castles, try to reserve time to see some abandoned places in Britain. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you discover.

Happy travels ~ Karen

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Conwy Castle, North Wales

10 great castles in Wales to visit

Wales is one of the world's greatest countries for castles and we think that Britain's best can be found within our borders. Come and learn about the Welsh nation's history through the buildings that defended it.

From defensive beginnings and the conflict of Civil War, to Tudor banqueting and Victorian decadence, the architectural splendour of these fortresses always stirs the soul. If you're looking for castles in Wales to visit, read on.

Castles in North Wales

Conwy castle.

Perched on a rock against the backdrop of Eryri (Snowdonia) , Conwy Castle has an indisputably magical feel. Some consider it the finest castle Edward I built, and the mesmerising views from the battlements are particularly famed within the walled town. Conwy is one of the castles in north Wales that forms a UNESCO world heritage site. It's quite amazing to stand in this castle and consider how it was built in only four years between 1283 and 1287. Conwy remains the most complete set of residential rooms inhabited by the medieval monarchy anywhere in Wales or England. Edward I only stayed here once, trapped by a Welsh rebellion in 1294 over Christmas until January 1295. King Richard II hid at the castle from King Henry IV. With great halls, private chapels and royal chambers wind through this medieval marvel, it's a great castle to visit.

The mighty Conwy Castle still towers over the town after 700 years

Caernarfon Castle

Edward I wasn’t messing around when he built this polygonal 13th century castle on a former Roman fort. Part of the coastal World Heritage Site, the mighty Caernarfon Castle remains one of the most visually arresting sights you’ll ever see. The birthplace of Edward II and where the investiture of King Charles III as Prince of Wales took place, visit the Exhibition rooms to stir your senses. There's now step free access to the rooftop.

Read more : Caernarfon's military might .

Caernarfon Castle, Gwynedd, North Wales

© Judith Newton

Chirk Castle

The picturesque Welsh-English border offers few sites as magnificent as Chirk Castle . Roger Mortimer built the castle in the late 13th century. It was home for the Myddelton family from the 1595 until Thomas Scott-Ellis leased it in 1910. It is now owned and run by the National Trust. The elegant state rooms inside are an interior dream, combining elaborate plasterwork with a medieval tower, a dungeon and an 18th century Servants’ Hall. Enjoy an uplifting wander through the garden, terrace, pavilion and parkland enclosing Wrexham ’s gem.

Castles in Mid Wales

Powis castle.

Powis Castle has a rich history, although it’s the gardens – famed for their French and Italian styles, adorned with plants and an orangery – that single it out, and that’s before you spot the medieval deer park. The perfect place to relax before heading inside to see the medieval fortress. Powis Castle was built in the mid 13th century by Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn, a Welsh prince. In 1578, Powis was leased to Sir Edward Herbert. It features decadent galleries and staircases aplenty.

Powis Castle and Garden, Mid Wales

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Castles in West Wales

Dinefwr  castle.

The folkloric 12th century castle at Dinefwr Park is hugely atmospheric. This once much fought-over seat of the kingdom of Deheubarth is now run by the National Trust. Enjoy the wonderful views and guided tours that take in the nearby nature reserve , cottages, ponds, croquet lawn and a tea room. Look out for the rutting deer and cows who might join you during a stroll around the 18th century landscape park.

Laugharne Castle

The magnificent medieval Laugharne Castle was part of a chain of Norman coastal castles from Chepstow in the east to Pembroke in the west. After centuries of conflict, Laugharne was rescued from near ruin by Elizabethan courtier Sir John Perrot. It's forever associated with Dylan Thomas , who escaped writer’s block at this 'brown as owls' castle. Discover his inspiration within the Victorian ornamental gardens, and relax near the Dylan Thomas Boathouse and Shed where poetry was once in motion.

Laugharne Castle, which sits on the estuary of the River Tâf, West Wales

Cilgerran Castle

The Normans’ penchant for defences with river views means 12th century Cilgerran Castle has an amazing vantage point, overlooking the River Teifi . Circle the two vast round towers and walk between the walls of the Earl of Pembroke’s creation on a gorge – home to a castle which, even by Welsh standards, is particularly beautiful.

Cilgerran Castle, Pembrokeshire, West Wales

Castles in South Wales

Caerphilly castle.

Caerphilly Castle was locked within water defences when it was built by the English during the 13th century. The outside is the place, among an array of delights, to see four siege engines, and the inside has a hallowed, majestic feel.

Caerphilly Castle, South Wales

© Michael George, Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Raglan Castle

Raglan Castle's striking round towers make this fortress a singular classic, and there’s every chance you’ll be enraptured from the moment you see the astonishing gatehouse which once denied Oliver Cromwell at the end of the Civil War. Surrounded by fields, the romantic ruins even make space for a bowling green. Construction of this South Wales castle began in the 1430s by Sir William ap Thomas. It's one of the last true castles to be built in Wales.

Raglan Castle, Monmouthshire

© Tom MartinandWALES NEWS SERVICE

Caldicot Castle

Every view from the incredible medieval Caldicot Castle could be a picture postcard. The history of this 13th century castle, built by Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, is the stuff of legend. From Norman beginnings, to conflict in the Middle Ages, and Victorian domesticity. Fifty five acres of country park await, as well as events such as re-enactments and a tearoom for unwinding.

What is the oldest castle in Wales?

Chepstow Castle the oldest castle in Wales. It was one of the first Norman strongholds in Wales. It's the oldest surviving post-Roman stone castle in Britain. The building of this castle started in 1067 by Earl William FitzOsbern, a close friend of William the Conqueror.

What is the biggest castle in Wales?

Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales, and the second largest in Britain after Windsor Castle. The magnificent fortress covers 30 acres and boasts massive walls, towers, and gatehouses. It is three times the size of Principality Stadium and a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

What is the smallest castle in Wales?

It is believed that Weobley castle is one of the smallest castle in Wales. It has views of the beautiful Gower peninsula. This former elegant family home with a watchtower. Built by the wealthy de la Bere family, stewards to the lords of Gower 700 years ago, Weobley suffered serious damage during the uprising of Owain Glyndwr in the early 15th century.

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