List of castles in Highland facts for kids
The Highland area of Scotland is famous for its many historic castles. These amazing buildings tell stories of ancient clans, battles, and royal visits. From grand homes still lived in today, to mysterious ruins standing tall against the landscape, Highland castles offer a peek into Scotland's past. They were built for protection, as homes for powerful families, and as symbols of strength.
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Exploring Highland Castles
The Scottish Highlands are home to a wide variety of castles. Some are still lived in, while others are magnificent ruins. Each castle has its own unique history and design. They show us how people lived and defended themselves centuries ago.
Castles You Can Visit Today
Many castles in the Highlands are open to visitors. They offer a chance to explore history up close.
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle is a very grand and beautiful castle. It is one of Scotland's oldest continuously inhabited houses. This means people have lived here for a very long time! The castle looks like something out of a fairy tale. It has tall spires and lovely gardens. You can visit Dunrobin Castle and explore its rooms and grounds.
Dunvegan Castle
Found on the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. It has been the home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. The castle holds many treasures and stories. It is a great place to learn about clan history.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland's most famous castles. It sits on a small island where three sea lochs meet. The castle was rebuilt in the 20th century. It looks just like a classic Scottish castle. Its stunning location makes it a popular spot for visitors and photographers.
Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle stands proudly on a cliff overlooking the River Ness. Most of what you see today was built in the 19th century. It is currently used by the Highland Council. While parts are used as court houses, it remains an important landmark in the city of Inverness.
Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle began its life in 1454. Its oldest part, the keep, dates from this time. Most of the castle you see now was built in the 17th century. It is still occupied today. This historic house is located in Nairnshire.
Castle Stuart
Castle Stuart is a fine example of a tower house. It was built in 1625. A tower house is a strong, tall building designed for both living and defense. Castle Stuart has been beautifully restored. It is now used as a residence.
Ballone Castle
Ballone Castle is a unique "Z-plan" tower house. It was built in the late 16th century. After falling into ruin, it was completely restored after 1990. It is now a private residence near Portmahomack. Its restoration shows how old buildings can be given new life.
Dalcross Castle
Dalcross Castle is an "L-plan" castle. It was built in the 17th century. This type of castle has a main block with a wing extending at right angles, forming an 'L' shape. It is a private residence located in Dalcross, Highland.
Kilravock Castle
Kilravock Castle is a historic castle in Nairnshire. It has been the home of the Rose family for many centuries. It is still occupied today.
Muckrach Castle
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Muckrach Castle is another occupied castle in the Highlands. It stands as a reminder of the region's rich history.
Castles in Ruins
Many castles in the Highlands are now ruins. Even as ruins, they are impressive and tell fascinating stories.
Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle is a famous ruin on the shores of Loch Ness. It has a long and dramatic history. The castle was once one of Scotland's largest. It played a key role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Today, its ruins are managed by Historic Environment Scotland.
Inverlochy Castle
Inverlochy Castle is a ruin near Fort William. It dates back to the 13th century. This castle was once a powerful fortress. It is now managed by Historic Environment Scotland.
Castle of Old Wick
The Castle of Old Wick is a ruin from the 14th century. It stands on a dramatic cliff edge near Wick, Caithness. It is also managed by Historic Environment Scotland.
Sinclair & Girnigoe Castle
The ruins of Sinclair & Girnigoe Castle are very impressive. They stand on a rugged coastline. This castle was once a strong fortress of the Sinclair clan.
Strome Castle
Strome Castle is a ruin managed by the National Trust for Scotland. It sits in a beautiful location.
Castle Tioram
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Castle Tioram is a ruin located on a tidal island. It is a very scenic and historic spot.
Mingarry Castle
Mingarry Castle is a medieval hall house from the 13th century. It is currently undergoing preservation and restoration. This will help protect it for future generations.
Dounreay Castle
Dounreay Castle is a 16th-century L-plan castle. It is now a ruin. It is located within the grounds of the Dounreay Nuclear Power Development Establishment.
Rait Castle
Rait Castle is a 14th-century ruin. It is a private property in Nairnshire.
Varrich Castle
Varrich Castle is a ruin near Tongue, Highland. It is thought to date back to around 1000 AD.
Other Notable Castles
Ackergill Tower
Ackergill Tower is another castle that is currently occupied.
Helmsdale Castle
Helmsdale Castle was a 15th-century castle in Helmsdale, Sutherland. Sadly, it was demolished in the 1970s. No remains of it are left today.
Invergarry Castle
Invergarry Castle is a 17th-century ruin. It is located by Loch Oich in the Great Glen. The ruins are currently under preservation by the Invergarry Castle Preservation Trust.
Scrabster Castle
Scrabster Castle was a bishop's castle from the 12th century. It is now a ruin.
See also
- Castles in Scotland
- List of castles in Scotland
- List of listed buildings in Highland
