Dunottar Castle

The next position on the list of the best castles in Scotland to visit is Dunottar castle. About 3 kilometers south of Stonehaven, Scotland's north-eastern coast is home to the wrecked medieval fortification known as Dunnottar Castle. Although the majority of the remaining structures date from the 15th and 16th centuries, the site is thought to have been fortified in the Early Middle Ages. Due to its advantageous location and formidable defenses, Dunnottar has been a significant figure in Scottish history up until the Jacobite uprisings in the 18th century.

The Honours of Scotland, the Scottish crown jewels, were kept concealed in Dunnottar in the 17th century from Oliver Cromwell's invading army. Earl Marischal's residence since the 14th century, Dunnottar fell into decline after the last Earl lost his titles by supporting the Jacobite uprising in 1715. The castle has been open to the public since the 20th century when it underwent restoration.

The castle's remains cover an area of 1.4 hectares and are encircled by sheer cliffs that descend 160 feet to the North Sea. The headland and the mainland are connected by a small strip of land, along which a steep walk ascends to the gatehouse. The 14th-century tower house and the 16th-century palace are just two of the castle's many structures. Twelve of the buildings on the property, including Dunnottar Castle, were listed buildings.

Location: Near Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, Scotland