When it comes to ancient architecture Scotland is the place to be as you are never far away from a Scottish castle here given their massive abundance in a relatively small area. Likewise, the country is blessed with natural beauty galore and of the many stunning vistas we enjoy, lochs and other water features like waterfalls are among them.
Now, picture yourself in one of Scotland’s many seaside strongholds. The ancient history that underpins them is almost palpable in these clifftop castles and the ambience is complemented by the sound of waves crashing against the stoic shoreline below. Truly, it doesn’t get much better than that.
What’s more, if you are familiar with Scottish map reading, you will know that the names of these castles are anglicised from our great heritage languages of this land - most often Scottish Gaelic, specifically. Alone, they reveal much about the building and the Scots that chose to build these grand structures where they still stand today (some like Castle Sween dating back to as far as the 1100s.)
Many Scottish castles are found by the coastline as these locations conferred a strategic advantage to their inhabitants who sought to protect their home from invaders of other clans.
With all that said, here are fifteen of our favourite coastal castles in Scotland which are sure to take your breath away.
9. Blackness Castle
Blackness Castle is located near the village of Blackness on the south shore of the Firth of Forth. The castle was built in 1440 by the Crichtons; one of Scotland’s most powerful families. It is often known as the “ship that never sailed” because it resembles a stranded ship from its seashore side. | Empato from Getty Images Signature
10. St Andrews Castle
The ruins of the castle rests on the headland to the north of St Andrews. What remains of the structure of the Archbishops of St Andrews in part dates from the 13th century. It is said that the town is so named as the relics of St. Andrew (the patron saint of Scotland) were said to have been brought there by the bishop St. Rule. | jvoisey from Getty Images Signature
11. Duart Castle
Duart Castle is perched on a rocky headland towards the Isle of Mull. Although it dates to the 13th century it was razed by English invaders in 1756. The name in Gaelic “Dubhaird Caisteal” is said to mean the “Black Promontory” as “dubh” signifies “black” and “aird” means “the high place”. | naumoid from Getty Images
12. Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan rests on the meeting point of three sea lochs which are close to the village of Dornie enroute to the Isle of Skye. It was first inhabited in the 6th century and later rebuilt in the mid 13th century. The name means “Island of Donnán” in reference to Donnán of Eigg; a Celtic saint who was martyred in 617. | Juergen Schonnop