When you think of Scotland, many things come to mind. You might picture the stunning scenery that includes towering mountains, beaches, lochs, islands, and sheep roaming the countryside putting a temporary halt on local traffic. Or, you might think of rich coffee, pastries, a plate of fish and chips, and luscious strawberries––all of which are staples in Scotland!
This fantastic country is made up of approximately 800 islands and is located in the northern portion of Great Britain. It borders England, the Atlantic Ocean, and the North Sea and is the birthplace of golf, the historic St. Andrews Cathedral, home to “Nessie” the Loch Ness Monster, and the Scottish Highlands.
In addition to the famous locations to see, Scottish lands are lush and green because of the consistent rain, and the hills are ever rolling. There are spectacular mountain cliffs along the beaches and glorious stone homes you can see through the mist of morning fog.
There are many things to do and see while visiting Scotland but towering above the beautiful landscapes and attractions are the many historic castles that are a must-see on any tourist list.
These castles combine Scotland’s rich, brick-n-mortar history together with its luscious landscapes in a way for all who visit to be memorized.
Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most historically important castles in Scotland. It is well guarded as it sits atop an intrusive cliff and is surrounded on three sides by rugged rocks.
Most of the buildings of the castle are from the 15th and 16th centuries. A few structures remain from the 14th century, while the outer front portions of the structure date back to the 18th century.
The castle itself is like a little village, complete with a dungeon to hold captives, a church, a large kitchen, a war room, a town square and a large courtyard.
In 1297, William Wallace and his men captured the castle after the Battle of Stirling Bridge where his forces overwhelmed the larger English army.
Also, a few royal deaths took place at Stirling Castle, including King Alexander in 1124 and William the first in 1214. Beheading those who were convicted of a crime was the norm and considered entertainment!
Lastly, several popular movies and shows were filmed there including “Outlander,” “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” and “Game of Thrones” to name a few.
Edinburgh Castle
Another castle worth your visit is Edinburgh Castle. It’s enormous and sits on Castle Rock in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Edinburgh Castle was a royal establishment in the 11th century and was home to royalty until 1633. From the 17th century on, the castle was used as a military garrison where a group of soldiers guarded the town. It was used as a royal residence, an arsenal, a treasury, a mint, a prison and a military fortress.
The castle was the scene in many conflicts that included the Wars of Scotland Independence in the 14th century, to the Jacobite Rising in 1745. It is the most besieged place in Great Britain, and one of the most attacked castles in the history of the world.
Edinburgh Castle is the country’s most-visited tourist attraction and culminates the Royal Mile.
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a succession of village streets that goes through the Old Town of Edinburgh. It begins at the Royal Palace and concludes at Edinburgh Castle. It was the route that monarchy took from the palace to the castle and is about one mile in length.
Today, the Royal Mile consists of hundreds of little shops, pubs, and restaurants that you can enjoy while walking the cobblestone streets from the Royal Palace to the castle.
Scotland is a fun country to visit and while there are many more things to experience and do. If you visit, be sure to put the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Stirling Castle on your list.
Lastly, don’t forget to take in an authentic serenade from bagpipers while you sip a thick cup of coffee. The culture is amazing, and the people are sweet ––just like the shortbread and sticky toffee pudding.