You don’t have to think too hard to imagine how impressive it was in its prime. The castle is perfectly perched in the middle of the gardens with sweeping views over the Sound of Sleat. You can learn all about the rich history of Clan Donald in the museum before strolling through 40 acres of gardens and woodland parks where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. It was the last ancestral home of Clan Donald (Macdonalds of Sleat), Scotland’s largest and most powerful clan. Set on a 20,000-acre working estate on the charming Isle of Skye, the ruins of Armadale Castle ooze romance. Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum, Isle of Skye The moat silted up long ago, but you can see the outline and how epic it would’ve looked way back when.
#Abandoned castle ruins in scotland full#
Old Inverlochy was defended by a three-sided moat, four round corner towers and two opposing entrances protected by barbicans – one of which still stands at full height. Very few castles from this era have survived unharmed in Scotland, so it’s a pretty incredible feeling walking around the walls among so much history. The strategic location allowed clans to defend their land and Old Inverlochy played a huge part in Scottish history. This medieval fortress was built around 1280AD on the banks of the River Lochy. Then make your way outside where you can get lost in zig-zagged hedges, colourful flower gardens and stunning views that stretch far over the Moray Firth. Wander through a maze of grand corridors and rooms and marvel at fairy tale turrets, tall ceilings, dazzling chandeliers and magnificent fireplaces. It’s also the biggest castle in the northern Highlands with a mighty 189 rooms. It has been the family home for the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for over 700 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited stately homes in Britain. Dunrobin Castle & Gardens, Golspieĭunrobin Castle is nothing short of magical. Urquhart Castle was also where some of Scotland’s most pivotal battles happened including the Wars of Independence and the Jacobite Uprisings. Although it now stands in ruins, you can still climb the Grant Tower to look out for Nessie in the murky loch, peek inside eerie prison cells or wander through the old great hall where magnificent banquets took place. Located on the banks of the Loch Ness – the home of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster – it’s not hard to imagine how splendid Urquhart Castle was back in its heyday. There’s no better way to uncover the history and mystery of the Highlands. From gruesome murders and bloody battles to wars that have shaped history, they’ve seen it all. But don’t be fooled – these stone walls have seen some serious stuff go down. Often perched on cliffs or tidal islands overlooking beautiful lochs, Scottish castles ooze romance. Some now stand in crumbling ruins while others have been restored to their full glory. OK, not everywhere, but you’re never too far from one. It might have something to do with the fact that medieval castles and fortresses are everywhere. The Scottish Highlands has a way of reminding you of the old world. Watch our short video of our visit to Slains Castle.No trip to Scotland is complete without visiting one of these enchanting castles.
#Abandoned castle ruins in scotland windows#
There is nothing that says castle more than peering out from the top of a turret! You have to be careful when climbing as the tower windows have become somewhat of a hazard. My favourite part of exploring the castle was climbing a spiral staricase to the top of one of the towers. Although to be fair even that is fairly spectacular. All that remains is the hard shell of what once was. Unfortunately, due to the absence of a roof all of the interior timbers and décor have been destroyed, including almost all of the second floor of the castle. The walls of Slains Castle are fairly well intact and some of the towers still rise high into the sky. It is a truly spectacular setting that makes you want to photograph the castle from every possible angle. Your eyes are drawn out across the rugged coast and into the North Sea. When you reach Slains Castle the first thing you notice is the dramatic cliff edge it sits on.
There are bollards to prevent cars driving all the way down to Slains Castle, but the walk is on a clear path and takes less than twenty minutes. We parked in a parking area a short walk away from the castle.
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