When you first arrive in Scotland, you’ll be greeted by a mixture of distinct culture and haunting landscapes. Amongst the rolling hills, you’ll find pristine beaches, crumbling ruins and ancient sites. Add to that some bagpipes, kilts and a little bit of haggis and you’ve got yourself a fine vacation. If this sounds like your type of adventure, keep reading to find out where to find the best castles in Scotland.
The birth of Scotland technically began in 10,000 B.C.E., however, Scotland’s first recorded history began with the arrival of the Roman Empire. The Romans were a bit domineering though, you see, but despite building Hadrian’s Wall and the Antonine Wall, they were never truly able to conquer it. The land was informally owned, protected and occupied by the Caledonians and Picts. And they weren’t about to move.
Scotland has had quite the historic journey. Vikings and Mary Queen of Scots have all found a home here. Surviving war after war, siege after siege, haggis after haggis, the country now stands as a testament to strength, resilience and a whole lot of personality.
When you come to Scotland, it’s best to go all out. Now, if you regularly feel you should be treated like royalty, but don’t have the funds to be a full-time monarch, no problem. You can stay at one of these Scottish castles-turned-hotels and taste the aristocratic life for a night, a week or a month. Bring a sceptre to breakfast, they won’t care.
Best Castles You Can Stay at in Scotland
1. Ackergill Tower
Want to travel back to the 15th century? Head to Ackergill Tower for a 5-star experience. Located at the very edge of the sea in Wick, Caithness, this castle is regal living on a whole other level. The estate has 17 bedrooms and sleeps up to 72 guests. You can stay in the tower, one of the cottages or grab one of the deluxe rooms. Then, pull out the crown you brought with you in your luggage, place it on your head and wait for your travel buddy to bow before you. If that doesn’t happen, just fix yourself something from the minibar.
At Ackergill, the sample menu changes to suit the time of year. Dine on sweet lamb, wild salmon and shellfish from the coast. Not only does the castle feature a spring, summer and winter menu, it has a bespoke Cigar Menu that allows you to try some of the world’s finest. Goes well with a wee dram, we’d like to add.
How to get to Ackergill Tower
Just five minutes from Wick John O’Groats Airport, you can get to the castle from Aberdeen, Edinburgh or Inverness. It has connections to Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff, Southampton and London if you plan on seeing more of the UK on your trip. You can even take a helicopter ride to the castle if you feel so inclined.
The road to Wick will leave you in your thoughts as you round the bends next to the sea. The hotel can also help you hire a car to make things a little easier. Once you’re in your vehicle, plug Ackergill into your Sat Nav and turn on the tunes. Oh, and remember to continue on the A99 for another 300 yards until you see flagpoles and a sign for Ackergill Tower on the left. Then just roll up like the king or queen that you are.
2. Amhinnsuidhe Castle
We know. Mouth full of marbles kind of name, isn’t it? Located in the Western Isles of Scotland (Isle of Harris to be exact), this incredible castle location offers romance and a memorable experience, so get your kilt on and mind the wind. The area is full of unspoilt wilderness, sitting at the shore of Hebridean.
Truly a life of luxury. The accommodations at the castle and dining area are so exquisite to look at, you may forget your appetite for a brief moment. With its own executive chef, Amhinnsuidhe offers fish and seafood harvested right from the castle’s doorstep, intermingled with some of Scotland’s finest ingredients.
How to get to Amhinnsuidhe Castle
The airport is located in the nearest main town of Stornoway, which is an hour’s drive away. You’ll find regular, daily scheduled flights from the two Scottish international airports of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Charter flights into Stornoway are also available.
Caledonian MacBrayne is the name you’ll need to remember as it’s the main ferry operator to the Western Isles and provides passenger and car services from Ullapool to Stornoway and from Uig (Skye) to Tarbert.
3. Fonab Hotel & Spa
On the banks of Loch Faskally, Fonab Castle is a quick walk to the historic town of Pitlochry. This small fortress is a popular destination for anyone looking for luxury, breathtaking views and one-of-a-kind service. The hotel has 42 bedrooms and suites that were carefully and beautifully designed. Nestled in lush, deciduous splendour, staying here is picturesque, quiet and refined.
Make sure you sample the 7-course tasting menu in Sandemans and delight in afternoon tea in the informal lounge. The Brasserie offers informal dining and a gorgeous view of Ben Vrackie. The best part? Fonab Spa boasts a 15-metre swimming pool, sauna and aroma relax rooms.
How to get to the Fonab Hotel & Spa
If travelling by car, Fonab Castle is about 300 metres from the main A9 Great North Road. Simply get on the A9 northbound at Perth (Broxden/Inveralmond roundabouts) or southbound from Inverness. Once you approach Pitlochry, continue on the A9. Do not take the A924 into Pitlochry itself. As you pass the A924 turn-off, regardless of travelling north or south, the A9 loops around the west of Pitlochry town. Turn off the A9 signposted ‘Local Access’. Watch out for the turn-off at Foss Road and exit there. Fonab Castle’s drive is first on your left.
By train, you can contact the hotel’s concierge to organize a complimentary mini-bus transfer to/from Pitlochry Railway Station. All you have to do is call and let them know when you’ll be arriving.
They also offer complimentary mini-bus transfer within a 2-mile radius when visiting Pitlochry to dine in the restaurants.
4. Delgatie Castle
Another ancient Scottish castle, just 3 miles from Turriff, is Delgatie. Deep in the Highlands, this is a countryside getaway. You can roam the estate, the nearby woods, small beaches or dabble in authentic Scottish life and fare. Everything about this royal residence is cosy from the quaint tearoom to the self-catering cottages on-site and even features a small lake where you may catch a glimpse of the local rainbow trout. The silence out here is golden.
As for the food, Laird’s Kitchen is an award-winning tearoom that’s nothing short of welcoming. Open from 10 am – 5 pm, you can sample some freshly baked goods, and all main entrées are made with local ingredients so you can count on getting a great meal here.
If you love some sport, head to the Trout Fishery and cast your rod out. The loch covers 4 acres and is stocked with trout. Feel free to go all out with your fishing outfit. No one is watching.
How to get to Delgatie Castle
Delgatie Castle can only be reached by car, but it isn’t tough. You’ll find the hotel just off A947, from Turriff to Banff Rd.
5. Melville Castle
Just 7 miles from Edinburgh, Melville Castle is luxury living, just outside the city. Considered an urban oasis to staff and guests alike, it offers the best of both worlds. The manor dates back to 1155 with the original owner being an Anglo-Norman Baron and one of the earlier Sheriffs of Edinburgh. Yep, a real baron. There are so many activities on and off the grounds if you like to stay active. There is an 18-hole golf course, cycling and mountain biking and pony trekking. Giddy up.
The Brasserie within the castle probably has many stories within its walls. Come in for a cheeky pint and a fine meal.
How to get to Melville Castle
From the west, you can simply head for the City Bypass and follow it eastbound. Exit at Glimerton Junction and follow the signs to Eskbank. The gates to Melville Castle will be on your right-hand side in just a few minutes. From the east, go to the City Bypass, heading westbound to Sheriffhall Roundabout and then take the A68, followed by the first turn on the right onto Melville Gate Rd.
The nearest main-line station is Edinburgh Waverly. A taxi to Melville will take you around 25 min.
Fly into Edinburgh Airport and take a 20-minute taxi to the estate.
Must-eat food in Scotland:
- Haggis: A delicious and savoury pudding (not the sweet kind) containing sheep’s organ meat ground up and spiced, traditionally encased in the sheep’s stomach. Remember, it’s what’s inside that counts. Feel free to wash it down with whisky.
- Oatcakes: Thin biscuits made from oatmeal. Feel free to wash down with whisky.
- Scotch broth: Barley, stewing or braising cuts of lamb, mutton or beef, root vegetables, and dried pulses. There’s no whisky in this. You may want to add some.
- Whisky: Get a double. It’s that good.
