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Castles Of Scotland

Although there is no definitive list, there are believed to be around 2,000 castles in Scotland, including fortified houses, castellated mansions and the remains of numerous crumbled ruins.

Edinburgh and Stirling are the two which are most closely identified with the nation's history. However these are just  two of a chain of romantic castles, most sited in the most gloriously dramatic settings. The builders of these castles had good natural resources, like stone and timber, readily available to.

St Andrews Castle. The ruins of  stand on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea, and isolated from the land by a deep moat. The original building is aid to have been erected around 1200 by Bishop Roger as an Episcopal residence. It was also a place of high military importance; in 1332 it fell into the hands of the Scottish barons and was held by them until 1336 when it was recovered for David II by St Andrew Moray who dismantled it as a place of fortification. About 1390 a new building was erected by Bishop Trail. It is thought that James II was born here.

Dunrobin Castle.The oldest part is a tower dating to 1401, but this is only visible from the internal courtyard. An L-shaped addition in the 17^th century gave the castle an E-shape and formed the courtyard. The current appearance is the result of work carried out between 1845 - 1851, by the 2^nd duke, which made Dunrobin the biggest country house in Scotland.

The Royal Palace of Falkland, set in a unique medieval village, was the country residence and hunting lodge of eight Stuart monarchs, including Mary, Queen of Scots. Built between 1501 and 1541, the palace is an extremely fine example of Renaissance architecture. It includes the exceptionally beautiful Chapel Royal, and is surrounded by internationally known gardens, built in the 1950s. The Royal Tennis Court, reputedly the world's oldest, is still used today.

Castle Accommodation & Tours In Scotland

	Scottish Highland Trails can arrange & provide Customised Scottish and Irish Castle Tours.
	Loch Fyne, Minard Castle 4-star B&B  in the castle itself
	Turriff, Delgatie Castle,  ideal touring base for visiting some of Scotland 's most majestic scenery

Links to Castle Sites

S c o t t i s h   C a s t l e s   a n d   R u i n s

Award Winning Celtic Castles

Edinburgh Castle

Traquair House

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