Discover Scotland’s Castles

Need your next Traitors fix? Here's how you can explore and stay at some of Scotland’s best castles.

Glenapp Castle

The start of the year can be difficult. The holidays are over, the days are cold, and many of us could happily hibernate until spring. Thankfully, the BBC’s newest series of The Traitors has offered cosy evenings in, engaging in a murder mystery set in a characterful castle in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. The stunning exterior shots of the castle, its grounds, and the surrounding countryside are perhaps the most enticing advertisement to take a trip to the rugged, beautiful country to see the sights in person.

While the castle featured in The Traitors (Ardross Castle) is unavailable for guests to stay at, Scotland offers visitors a vast collection of castles to explore. Whether offering an insight into rich history, a glimpse of famous filming locations, or wandering through the surrounding acres of dramatic landscapes, these castles will ensnare you in their enchanting atmosphere.

Stay at an AA 5-star-rated castle in Scotland

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to walk through the corridors in The Traitor’s castle, or experience a mystical, dramatic backdrop for a luxury escape, our AA 5-star-rated castles are ideal for a weekend break or a longer stay, to add some excitement to winter days.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Inverlochy Castle is a beautiful 19th-century Scottish Castle set against the backdrop of Ben Nevis near Fort William. The castle sits amidst extensive gardens and grounds overlooking its own loch, and the interiors are lavishly appointed in a classic, country-house style.

The surrounding areas of the castle are rich in rugged landscape and history with areas such as Glen Nevis, the mountains of Glencoe and the monument at Glenfinnan all worth a visit. Glen Nevis is a popular filming location, and has played host to films such as Highlander, Braveheart and the first two Harry Potter movies. Queen Victoria wrote in her diary about Inverlochy, ‘I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot’, a clear indicator to visitors that this is an ideal area for a scenic escape.

Glenapp Castle

With breathtaking gardens, and surrounded by forest and seascapes, Glenapp Castle is truly a hidden treasure. The luxury hotel boasts beautiful period furnishings and an intimate service, making guests feel welcome whether they are travelling alone or in a group.

The hotel offers guests a range of chauffeured tours, with one particular tour following a scenic coastal route through the quaint fishing village of Dunure, one of the filming locations of the TV series Outlander. The trip takes visitors to Culzean Castle, which is steeped in history and surrounded by abundant woodlands, sandy coastlines and a deer park, ideal for visitors wanting to tick another castle off their travel list.

Crossbasket Castle

Rescued from ruin and retaining many original features, Crossbasket Castle has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, with luxurious rooms and lounges and picturesque grounds combined with an attentive, personalised service.

Guests can enjoy a relaxing retreat on this magnificent estate or drive just 20 minutes into Glasgow to explore the bustling city. Known for its gothic architecture, charming, cobbled streets and a lively atmosphere, the city has also recently been used in a host of films, such as The Batman, 1917 and Outlander. The combination of the nostalgic castle and lively city is ideal for those seeking a memorable castle break.

Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa

Fonab Castle Hotel and Spa sits on the banks of Loch Faskally, nestled in woodland and surrounded by scenic views. Originally built as a home for the Sandeman family, the hotel is a Scots Baronial castle that has been restored into a luxury hotel.

Guests can dine and relax in 1892 on the Loch and the lounge enjoying the panoramic views, or for those wanting to explore, Faskally Forest is close by. The enchanting woodland was used as a filming location in season 4 of Outlander and is the perfect backdrop for guests to wander through the forest.

Striking Scottish castles to visit

Scotland boasts many beautiful castles, and while you can’t stay at all of them,
they are well worth a visit. Take a look at these characterful castles and the best
AA-rated places to stay nearby.

Edinburgh Castle

Walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, soldiers and pirates as you climb Castle Hill to Edinburgh Castle. One of the oldest fortified places in Europe, the castle has a rich history to uncover, and as a popular filming location, it is an ideal location to practice being a faithful or unleash your inner traitor.

The best AA-rated places to stay nearby

•    The Balmoral
•    The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton
•    Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
•    Norton House Hotel & Spa
•    The Witchery

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle sits atop a volcanic crag and is one of Scotland’s greatest stone castles. Generations of Scottish monarchs have left their mark on the castle, including Mary Queen of Scots, who spent her childhood here. Filming of the movie, Mary Queen of Scots also took place at the castle.

The best AA-rated places to stay nearby

•    Cromlix
•    The Gleneagles Hotel
•    The Stirling Highland Hotel
•    Victoria Square
•    Arden Country House

Eilean Donan Castle

One of the most iconic castles in Scotland, Eilean Donan continues to entice guests with its majestic scenery and location – on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet. Visitors may also remember the castle’s presence in films such as Highlander, Elizabeth: The Golden Age and the famous Bond film, The World is Not Enough.

The best AA-rated places to stay nearby

• The Torridon
• Duisdale House Hotel

Inveraray Castle

Home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll, Inveraray Castle displays a rich tapestry of Scottish and British history. Situated on the shores of Loch Fyne and surrounded by rugged highland scenery, guests can take in the magnificent home and gardens where the Downton Abbey Christmas 2012 episode was filmed.

The best AA-rated places to stay nearby

•    Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa
•    Ardanaiseig Hotel
•    Taychreggan Hotel

Urquhart Castle

Situated on the shore of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle has seen some of Scotland’s most dramatic historical chapters, significantly the Wars of Independence. Visitors can admire the strategic setting of the castle on a rocky headland with views up and down Loch Ness. A filming location for The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes, guests can immerse themselves in the setting of a murder mystery.