How Many Castles Are in Scotland?

Exploring the Land of Castles

"Scotland’s castles stand as proud sentinels of history—etched in stone, steeped in legend, and whispering tales of battles, kings and ghosts on the wind."

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A Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• How Many Castles Are in Scotland?

• Here's How To Spend Your First Three Days In The Highlands

• Around the Web: Fascinating stories behind the collection, from the prehistoric to the present; Arthur’s Seat: Climb an Extinct Volcano in Edinburgh; Scottish Highlands Legends and Romance and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Neptune's Staircase

• Scottish Food You Will Love: Let's visit 10 brand new PLACES TO EAT in EDINBURGH!

• Coo Wee: 25 Beautiful Castles in Scotland

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How Many Castles Are in Scotland?

Scotland is home to over 2,000 castles, making it one of the most fortified nations in the world. From mighty fortresses and grand palaces to crumbling ruins and hidden tower houses, these castles tell the story of Scotland’s turbulent past. Some sources estimate the total to be between 2,000 and 3,000, but the exact number depends on how you define a "castle." While the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland recognise around 1,500 significant sites, others count minor ruins and remnants, bringing the number closer to 2,000+.

So, while there’s no definitive tally, 2,000 castles is a fair estimate of Scotland’s impressive legacy of fortifications. Whether perched on dramatic cliffs, hidden in misty glens, or standing proud in city centres, these castles continue to captivate visitors. From famous strongholds like Edinburgh Castle and Eilean Donan to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, Scotland remains a paradise for history lovers and castle explorers alike. Let’s do a deep dive into Scotlands Castles…

Castle Stalker on a tidal islet in Loch Laich, is a well-preserved medieval tower house with a rich history of clan rivalries, sieges, and stunning Highland scenery - Shutterstock

Here's How To Spend Your First Three Days In The Highlands

The rugged and breathtaking Scottish Highlands are among Europe's last remaining untamed landscapes, situated in one of the world's least densely populated areas. Over three days, you can fully immerse yourself in the serene magnificence of the Highlands, exploring its remarkable wildlife, stunning scenery, and deep-rooted history that dates back to the Stone Age.

Eilean Donan Castle - Love to Visit Scotland

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Around The Web

Fascinating stories behind the collection, from the prehistoric to the present

Visit the Scottish National Museum in Edinburgh with over 12 million objects and specimens in museums and stores, there are a lot of stories to tell. Uncover hidden histories, discover breakthrough research, and dip in to different perspectives with the collection of articles and films.

Arthur’s Seat: Climb an Extinct Volcano in Edinburgh

Arthur’s Seat…a jagged, grassy prominence rising up from the urban sprawl of Edinburgh, offers one of the best views of the city. It’s a short, slightly strenuous hike to the highest point, but absolutely worth it to look out over Edinburgh from this vantage point.

What is the Grassmarket Edinburgh?

For over 500 years this square in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town has been an important gathering place. It’s been a trading area since the earliest of times and, if you visit the Grassmarket today, you’ll find it takes just a little imagination to visualise the hustle and bustle of a busy market day during the Middle Ages.

Want to eat like a local?

Treat yourself to the very best of local food and drink at favourite Scottish bars and restaurants…

It's easy to find beautiful places to visit in Scotland

Wild beaches, sparkling lochs and romantic castles, Scotland is often referred to as one of the most beautiful countries in the world…. Do you agree?

Scottish Highlands Legends and Romance

The Scottish Highlands have an air of romance. This vast, untamed land is steeped in history, where mist clings to the mountains, lochs stretch out like liquid silver, and the echoes of ancient love stories linger in the air. It’s a place where passionate affairs shaped the fate of clans, where poets found inspiration for their most heartfelt verses, and where lovers today can lose themselves in landscapes that feel untouched by time.

Dunvegan Castle - Shutterstock

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Neptune's Staircase is a series of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal in Scotland. It lifts boats 19 meters and is the longest staircase lock in Britain. Built in the early 1800s, it's still in use today. Ever seen a boat go up a staircase?

Scottish Food You Will Love

Let's visit 10 brand new PLACES TO EAT in EDINBURGH!

Coo Wee

25 Beautiful Castles in Scotland

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