Must see: Scottish castles

One of the best things about Scotland is that no matter where you find yourself, a castle is never far away. As integral to the Scottish landscape as its pristine lochs and lofty mountains, the country’s castles rank amongst the most iconic in the world.

Here are five ones not to be missed.

Meticulously restored to its original Renaissance glory, Stirling Castle was the favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens. Bring the kids along to meet costumed courtiers, bodyguards and servants and step into a rarefied world filled with decadence, plots and intrigue.

The red sandstone walls of Glamis have been home to many colourful characters throughout the centuries, not least of them the late Queen Mother. It also famously features in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Crowned with battlements and pointed turrets, Glamis is the epitome of baronial grandeur.

Eilean Donan has to be one of the most photographed castles in the world. Boasting a perfect picture-postcard setting on an island at the entrance of Loch Duich, Eilean Donan is steeped in Jacobite lore. Among the rare artefacts on display is a sword said to have been wielded at Culloden.

Dramatic doesn’t even begin to express the effect of this formidable cliff-top stronghold. Perched atop an immense rocky outcrop overlooking the north east coast, Dunnottar has witnessed many pivotal moments in Scotland’s history. The sight of it silhouetted against the setting sun is spellbinding.

Queen Victoria lovingly described Balmoral as her ‘dear paradise in the Highlands’ and it remains a private home of the Royal Family. When not in residence, visitors can enjoy exhibitions in the Castle Ballroom, the largest room in the castle, and wander through the charming gardens and grounds.

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It is estimated that there were once up to 3,000 castles in Scotland – almost one for every 100 square miles. After these five, there's only another couple of thousand left to see.

Maybe next time!

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