Scotland’s Strongholds

From dramatic cliff-top Fortresses to fairytale Palaces, these Castles stand as living testaments to the past

"Scotland’s castles are not just relics of stone and mortar—they are keepers of our wild history, guardians of lore, and silent witnesses to centuries of triumph and turmoil."

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Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

Edinburgh Castle - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• Scotland’s Strongholds

• Scotland's Most Inspiring Spots

• Around the Web: The One o’Clock Gun; Afternoon Tea at the Castle; Scotland’s Secret Places 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: Scotland is calling you… and so are the coos!

• Scottish Food You Will Love: DUNDEE Cake TRADITIONAL Scottish fruit cake

• Coo Wee: 25 Beautiful Castles in Scotland

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Scotland’s Strongholds

Scotland is a land full of stories—and many of those stories begin with a castle. Scattered across the country, from wild coastlines to quiet glens, are more than 2,000 castles. Some are mighty stone fortresses that once guarded kings and queens. Others are crumbling ruins, still standing after centuries of battles, betrayals, and bold escapes. Some are managed by Historic Environment Scotland, others by The National Trust for Scotland, while a large number remain privately owned or independently operated.

These castles are more than just beautiful buildings. They are windows into Scotland’s past. You can walk through grand halls where royals held banquets, climb towers with views that stretch for miles, or explore dark dungeons once used to hold prisoners. Some castles are known for their ghost stories too—like the Green Lady of Crathes or the headless drummer in Edinburgh Castle. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there’s no denying these places have a special kind of magic.

And here’s the best part—you don’t have to just visit. You can stay in a castle, sleep in a four-poster bed, and wake up where history was made. It’s a chance to feel like a laird or lady, if only for a night. So if you’re ready for mystery, beauty, and a little bit of spine-tingling legend, Scotland’s castles are calling.

Eilean Donan Castle - Shutterstock

Scotland's Most Inspiring Spots

Explore the enchanting landscapes and literary legacies of Scotland as we embark on a journey through ten inspiring spots that have captivated the imaginations of renowned writers. From the legendary Slains Castle in Aberdeenshire, said to have inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula, to the remote Isle of Jura, where George Orwell found solitude for his final novel, these locations have played a pivotal role in shaping some of the world's greatest stories.

Loch Lomond - Love to Visit Scotland

Around The Web

The One o’Clock Gun

Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks by the One o’Clock Gun. The firing of the gun dates back to 1861, when businessman John Hewat brought the idea to Edinburgh from Paris. The gun is still fired every day at 1pm, except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day. Crowds gather to enjoy the spectacle – and the sound often surprises people on Princes Street below.

Afternoon Tea at the Castle

The Tea Room is located in the heart of the castle, Crown Square. The walls have been painted a rich Dutch blue, embellished with touches of copper/brass, vintage mirrors and botanical foliage to keep things feeling fresh, modern but still with a rugged Scottish ambience. The perfect setting to relax and enjoy afternoon tea.

The Writers' Museum

The Writers’ Museum celebrates the lives of three giants of Scottish Literature – Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Home to portraits, rare books and personal objects including Burns’ writing desk, the printing press on which Scott’s Waverley Novels were first produced, and the rocking horse he used as a child.

A guide to the very quaint Dean Village

Just a stone’s throw from Princes Street, Dean Village is a tranquil riverside haven with cobbled lanes, old mill buildings, and scenic views along the Water of Leith. Take a peaceful stroll, snap a photo at Well Court, and breathe in the charm of one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems.

Aye, even your cake and eat it too!

At MUMS Great Comfort Food, they believe great food shouldn’t be fancy or fussy - it should be for everyone. They work with top producers, starting local and going the extra mile to find the best ingredients. Gourmet taste, generous portions, fair prices, and proper service - you can have it all at MUMS.

Scotland’s Secret Places

Scotland is a land full of ancient stories, dramatic landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. Most people visit places like Edinburgh, Loch Ness, or the Isle of Skye—and don’t get us wrong, they’re brilliant. But what if you could go a wee bit deeper? What if your next adventure led you to places most travellers have never even heard of?

Crovie, Aberdeenshire – A Village Frozen in Time - Love to Visit Scotland

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

Scotland is calling you… and so are the coos!

Scottish Food You Will Love

DUNDEE Cake TRADITIONAL Scottish fruit cake

Coo Wee

25 Beautiful Castles in Scotland

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