Best castles worth visiting near Edinburgh

Scotland as a nation, steeped in history. From Neolithic settlements in the West Islands to the battlefields where Wallace and Bruce fought wars of independence, remnants of the past appear across the country. However, perhaps more than anywhere else, Edinburgh and the surrounding area are filled with an enormous number of historical monuments – especially castles. This article explores 16 of these amazing sites without which no visit to the capital is complete.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle sits on top of the city on top of the castle rock, and its dominant position on the horizon reflects its status as a jewel in the capital's crown. Parts of the castle date back to the twelfth century, and the invaders besieged Edinburgh Castle more than anywhere else in Great Britain. The importance of the castle within Scotland continues to this day. Edinburgh's annual military tattoo is performed within its magnificent square, making it the most iconic symbol across the country.

2. Kregemalar Castle

Although she is only three miles away from her older cousin, you would be forgiven if you thought that the landscape surrounding Craigmillar Castle came from the depths of the Scottish Highlands. Known as a haven (and later prison) for Queen Mary of Scotland, its historical significance makes it a must-visit for tourists. While much of its labyrinthine-like architecture has collapsed over time, its 12th-century tower still stands proudly at 17 metres.

3. Craigkrock Castle

Craigkrock Castle is located a few miles west of Edinburgh and is one of the most well-tended castles in the country. With a long list of owners over the centuries, one of the most notable comes surprisingly late when publisher Archibald Constable became the castle's regent. Visitors to the palace include Alfred Lord Tennyson, Hans Christian Anderson and even Charles Dickens. Built with an amazing array of styles that merge into one beautiful structure, it's easy to see why Craigcrook Castle has received so many prominent fans.

4. Lochend Castle

Lochend Castle is actually a merger of medieval ruins with the relatively modern nineteenth-century Lochend House. While we can trace the history of the Earth through the centuries, the castle itself is shrouded in mystery, with historical sources vaguely referring to it as the "ancient tower". The mysterious castle has appeared on maps ever since, and remains a great place to visit within the Edinburgh area.

5. Crichton Castle

The ruins of Crichton Castle stand alone on the River Tyne, telling the story of her family's fall from grace. The castle is surrounded by rolling pastures, but its proximity to Edinburgh pays tribute to the diversity of Scotland's landscape. With a history that includes accusations of witchcraft and a dinner that inspired the Red Wedding in Game of Thrones, the atmosphere around Crichton Castle is unrepeatable. Even the architecture is unconventional, with a magnificent Italian-influenced façade unmatched anywhere else in Scotland.

6. Porthwick Castle

The high-rise twin towers of Borthwick Castle are considered one of the largest castles in Scotland. Built by Sir William de Borthwick - who nominated himself for a hostage exchange with King James I - the majesty of the castle reflects the nobility of his character. With the exception of their displacement by Oliver Cromwell in 1650 until 1810, the castle has remained the home of the Borthwick family for the past six hundred years. The castle is now used as an event venue, and also offers open days that you shouldn't miss if you get the chance.

7. Dalhousie Castle

We can trace the buildings on the territory of Dalhousie until the middle of the twelfth century, when the English knight Simundus of Ramsay erected a castle belonging to the newly crowned King David. Although now rented as a leisure and spa venue, Dalhousie's history is far from a relaxing event. Edward I and Oliver Cromwell lived, and the fort's giant red stone walls hosted key players in Scottish military history.

8. Rosslyn Castle

Perhaps best known for its use as a set in the film The Da Vinci Code, the church itself has seen its fair share of intrigue. Plundered by Cromwell and later overrun by nature, Rosslyn became synonymous with romance and artistic reflections, receiving visits from Alexander Nassmith and Scottish national poet Robert Burns. The now renovated castle is located 9 miles south of Edinburgh and is open for daily visits.

9. Laureston Castle

What Laureston Castle lacks in a complex history compensates for its sublime beauty. When looking at Forth Bay, the castle itself is surrounded by picturesque grounds that the public can freely explore. The unsecret Japanese garden of Loreston sits in the middle of its sprawling greenery. Getting lost in majestic cherry trees and tranquil streams may not be a typical Scottish experience, but their beauty cannot be missed.

10. Preston Tower

On the outskirts of what is now Prestonbans, stands Preston Tower – the last remains of a castle steeped in brutal history. Of the many sites attacked by Cromwell, Preston also suffered heavy damage from the Earl of Hertford at the request of Henry VIII. While you can't get to the interior of Preston Tower, the huge structure set against a backdrop of pleasant greenery is worth visiting on its own.