The Castles, Abbeys, Battlefields Estates & Gardens,  of Scotland.
ARMADALE CASTLE and GARDENS
	Armadale, Sleat, The Isle of Skye, IV45 8RS Tel No : 01471-844305 email : office@cland.demon.co.uk  The ruins of this beautiful castle set within 40 acres of woodland gardens offer much to see as you re-search  the  history of the Gales in the museum of the Isles.
AUCHINDOUN CASTLE
	Situated about 2miles from Dufftown on the Cabrach road, look for a signpost on the right hand side.  Follow the track all the way to this stunning and romantic castle, now in ruins but well worth the visit.
BLAIR CASTLE & GROUNDS
	Blair Atholl, Pitlochry,Perthshire PH18 5LT Tel No : 01796-481207  The Castle dates from 1269 and has been home to the Atholl family for over 700 years. Set in Strath Garry it holds a  strategic position on the road north. Steeped in history it is reputed to have been the last castle  besieged in britain and has the only remaining private army left in europe.The castle, grounds and the estate have much to offer you on your visit.
BALLINDALLOCH CASTLE
	Bannffshire, Scotland AB37 9AX Tel No : 01807-500205 www.ballindallochcastle.co.uk The Estate is just 15 mins north of Grantown on Spey on the A95. The Castle dates from the 16th century and is  home to the Lady Laird, Clare Macpherson-Grant Russell, and her family. This beautiful family home is a living museum with lovely gardens and plenty to do on your days visit.
BALVENIE CASTLE
	At Dufftown on the A941.  Tel: 01340-820121 Originally the seat of the Comyn earls of Buchan. A ruined yet beautiful courtyard castle, going back to the 15th century.  Steeped in history, it was once visited by Edward 1 of England . In 1562 the Earl of Atholl entertained Mary Queen of Scots  here during her fight with the Gordons.
BANOCKKBURN
	Off M80/M9 at junction 9, 2 miles south od Stirling. Tel: 01786-812664 Here In 1314 one of histories defining moments when King Robert the Bruce routed the English forces of King Edward II, to win much longed for freedom for the Scots.
BRODIE CASTLE
	41/2 miles west of Forres on the A96, over the level crossing then to the right Tel : 01309-641371 or www.nts.org.uk  A 16th century town house with later additions, Brodie has much to offer the visitor with it's fine porcelain and furniture. the grounds are famous and offer lovely walks.
BRODICK CASTLE GARDEN & COUNTRY PARK
	On the Isale of Aran, take the ferry from Ardrossan to Brodick then the connecting bus to the Castle. Tel : 01770-302202 or www.nts.org.uk  This beautiful 17th century castle with a history that can be traced back to Viking times, is set in wonderful gardens with a long heritage, It has many fine paintings and 17th century furniture. Set amid the woodlands with views of Goatfell.
CASTLE FRASER, GARDEN & ESTATE
	Off the A944 4 miles north of Dunecht and 16 miles west of Aberdeen. Tel : 01330-833463 This grand castle was completed in 1663 and contains a beautiful Great Hall, with fine furniture and paintings. there are extensive woodland walks with views of the castle and a secluded walled garden.
CAWDOR CASTLE
	Half way between Nairn and Inverness off the A96. Tel : 01667-404615 or www.cawdorcastle.com or email : info@cawdorcastle.com  This fairytale castle has been the home of the Thanes since 1370 and is romantically linked with Shakespeare  and Macbeth. The tower and drawbridge are still intact and the house contains a collection of paintings, books, furniture and porcelain. The whole family can wander  the gardens and nature trails in a beautiful setting.
CORGARFF CASTLE
	Situated about 8miles west of Strathdon on the A939  Tel : 01975-651460 This medieval tower house dates back to the mid 16th century, set on  lonely moorland surrounded by a star shaped  perimeter wall. In 1831 it was used as a base for revenue officers looking for the illicit whisky stills.
CRATHES CASTLE, GARDEN & ESTATE
	On the A890, 6 miles south of Alford and 26 miles west of Aberdeen. Tel : 013398-83635 Completed in 1626 this fairy tale Castle is a fine example of Scottish baronial architecture, it blends into the rolling hills and it's great tower still dominates as it did when first built.
CRAIGIEVAR CASTLE
	On the A93, North Deeside road, 3 miles east of Banchory and 15 miles from Aberdeen. Tel : 01330-844525 A late 16th century Castle with it's towers and over hanging turrets,this castle was gifted by Robert the Bruce to  the Burnett family. A splendid castle with beautiful gardens and a treasure of things to see.
CULLODEN BATTLE  FIELD
	5 Miles east of Inverness on the B9006. Tel : 01463-790607 The 16th of April 1742 was the day that 1500 Jacobites and 52 government soldiers died and Bonny Prince Charlies days were over. There is plenty to see as you wander around the site, take in the visitors centre and exhibition. as well as the audio visual presentation.
CULZEAN CASTLE & COUNTRY PARK
	12 Miles south of Ayr, on the A719, 4 miles west of Maybole, off A77 Tel : 01655-884455 or www.culzeancastle.net  Resplendent with it's turrets and battlements the castle is surrounded by the sea and it's lush forest. It has a secret  garden awaiting your visit. Inside is an impressive Armoury and a circular saloon with views over the Forth of Clyde.
DRUM CASTLE and GARDENS
	Off the A93 3 miles west of Peterculter, 8 miles east of Banchory & 10 miles west of Aberdeen. Tel : 01330-811204 A late 13th century keep adjoining a Jacobean mansion house with additions from Victorian times, inside you will find lovely furniture and paintings. Walk in the rose garden and woodlands.
DUNROBIN CASTLE and GARDENS
	Golspie, Sutherland. Scotland. KW10 6RR Tel : 01408-633177 or www.dunrobincastle.net . 50 miles north of Inverness on the A9,  This is the ancient seat of the Earls and Dukes of the Sutherland family. Fine collections of furniture, silver and  paintings added to the magnificent  gardens and falconry center enrich your visit and day out.
DUNVEGAN CASTLE AND GARDENS
	Dunvegan, Isle of Skye, Scotland. IV55 8WA Tel : 01470-521206 or www.dunvegancastle.com  An historic castle with connections with Bonnie Prince Charlie.  Fine collections of furniture, silver and paintings added to the magnificent  gardens and Clan centre, enrich your  visit and day out.
EDINBUGH CASTLE
	At the end of the Royal Mile, City of Edinbugh Tel : 0131-225-9846 Scotlands most famous castle and home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and Royal Insignia on display to the public along with the Stone of Destiny used in the coronation of Scots Kings. Visit the beautiful displays and see the room where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James the 6th & 1st.
EILEAN DONAN  CASTLE
	Just along the A87 between  Shiel Bridge and Dornie by the  Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8EX Tel : 01599-555202 email :  info@donan.f9.co.uk   One of the most photogenic and romantic castles around, with spectacular views across the loch. The ancient seat  of the Mackenzies of Kintail packed with interest, and should not be missed on your tour.
ELGIN CATHEDRAL
	Elgin. along the A96  Tel : 01343-547171 One of Scotlands most beautiful medieval buildings. the ruins date back to the 13th century. Since it was burned  down by Wolf of Badenoch in 1390, it was greatly modified with many fine features.
FORT GEORGE
	Near Ardersier looking out onto the Moray Firth. Tel : 01667-462777 or 460232. Just 6miles west of Nairn or 11 miles north east of Inverness off the A96. Built after the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Jackobites, in 1746 it's elaborate defences remains intact. The place is a time capsule of the day to day domestic life of the soldiers and was built to hold 2500 barrels of gunpowder. It is also a favorite place for dolphin watchers.
FALKLAND PALACE
	On the A912 in the village of Falkland 11 miles north of Kirkaldy Tel : 01337-857397 The country retreat of the Stuart Dynasty, with strong links with Mary Queen of Scots more happier days. This is a  splendid renaissance building dating back to the reigns of James IV & V between 1501- 1541. Re knowned for it's gardens and Real Tennis Court
FYVIE CASTLE
	Off the A947 in the village of Fyvie 8 miles south east of Turriff and 25 miles north of Aberdeen. Tel : 01651-891266 The charm of Fyvie goes from it's 13th century origins to it's opulent Edwardian interiors. Includes a large collection of arms and armour with paintings by Raeburn and Gainsborough. Stroll by the lake or visit the tennis courts & bowling alley.
GLAMIS CASTLE and GARDENS
	On the A94 south of Forfar Tel : 01307-840393 or www.glamis-castle.co.uk  A typical fairytale castle set against a backdrop of  the grampian mountains. Home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorn, and childhood home to the Queen Mother. You will enjoy the many collections within the house.
HADDO HOUSE
	off the B999 near Tarves, 19 miles north of Aberdeen. Tel : 01651-851440 This elegant country house, once home to the Earls and Marquesses of Aberdeen has sumptuous Victorian interiors within a Georgian exterior, Complete with terrace gardens and a lake.
HUNTLY CASTLE
	Huntley, Aberdeenshire. Just off the A96. Tel : 01466-793191 This stone built castle dates from around 1460 but there was a stronghold here in the 14th century  that was used by Robert the Bruce. Inside there are many features including a fine heraldic sculpture and stone friezes.
INVEREWE GARDENS
	On the A832 At Poolewe, 6 miles northeast of Gairloch Tel : 01445-781200 This is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland and should not be missed on any account. There are 50 acres of garden created by Osgood Mackenzie in 1862. It contains exotic plants from around the world, and thanks to the gulf stream these gardens and there exotic contents give a fantastic and colourful display
INVERARAY CASTLE
	Inveraray, Argyll, PA32 8XE, Tel : 01499-302203 or visit www.inveraray-castle.com On the A83.  The home of the Campbell clan since the 15th century,it was rebuilt in the 18th century and includes fine furniture and paintings. The home of the Duke and Duchess of Argll. A stunning castle with wonderful views  across the Loch.
KELLIE CASTLE & GARDEN
	On the B9171 north of Pittenweem Tel : 01333-720271 The castle dates from 1360 and was finished in 1606, with magnificent plaster ceilings and painted panelling. The garden has a vast collection of old fashioned roses and herbaceous plants all organically grown.
THE ABBEY OF IONA
	The Isle of Iona Tel : 01681-700512 One of Scotlands most historic and venerated sites, a celebrated Christian center associated with St Columba and home to a rich collection of carved stones dating from 600 ad to the 1600's. This is a must if your in the area.
KILLIECRANKIE
	3 miles north of Pitlochry on the B8079 Tel : 01796-473233 This is where the Highlands and the lowlands meet, surrounded by the finest oak trees. The famous battle took place here on the 27th July 1689 it was here that general Graham of Claverhouse beat a 4000 strong government army in this beautiful and spectacular gorge.
KILDRUMMY CASTLE
	Alford, Aberdeenshire. Tel : 01975-571331. 10 miles southwest of Alford on the A97 The great castle of Kildrummy was the stronghold of the Earls of Mar. Although ruined it is a fine example of a 13th century castle with four round towers, a hall and chapel, all enclosed within a curtain wall.
KINNAIRD HEAD CASTLE
	Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire. Tel : 01346-511022  Built on a promontory for the Fraser family in the 16th century, it was altered  in 1787 to take the first lighthouse commissioned by northern lighthouses.
KISIMUL CASTLE
	Castle Bay, Isle of Barra. Reached by a short 5 min boat trip from Castle bay, weather premitting. Tel : 01871-810313 This is the last remaining medieval castle in the western isles, and the seat of the Chiefs of Clan Macneil. You are free to explore the chapel dungeon and tower on your visit.
THE CASTLE OF MEY
	Thurso, Caithness. KW 14 8XH www.castleofmey.org.uk  Located on the tip of Caithness a few miles to the east of Thurso, this was home to the Queen Mother since 1952. The castle and gardens overlook the Pentland Firth and are surrounded by ' The Great Wall ', These were developed by the Queen Mother herself over the years. A warm welcome awaits and you are assured of a marvelous day.
SPYNIE PALACE
	2  miles north of Elgin. off the A941  Tel : 01343-546358 For five centuries until 1686, Spynie Palace was the residence of the Bishops of Moray. A massive tower built by  Bishop Stewart in the 15th century dominates and affords superb views over Spynie Loch.
SCONE PALACE
	Scone, Perthshire on the A94 north of Perth Tel : 01738-552300 or www.scone-palace.co.uk or email : visits@scone-palace.co.uk  This was the ancient crowning site of the Scottish Kings. Home to the Earls of Mansfield. It has magnificent contents within, with glorious gardens, a maze and pinetum, all await your pleasure.
STIRLING CASTLE
	On the hill overlooking Stirling town Tel : 01786-450000 This grand castle dates from around 1500, it has been restored over the years to it's former renaissance glory. The splender of the Royal Chapel and the Great Hall must be seen as well as the wonderful  medieval kitchens. Close by are Argyll's lodgings a fine example of a 17th century town house beautifully restored which will round off your visit to this historic area.
St ANDREWS  CASTLE and CATHEDRAL
	St Andrews, Fife. at the end of the main street. Castle Tel : 01334-477196 or Cathedral Tel : 01334-472563 Visit and explore the old medieval tunnels, see the bottle dungeon, the exhibitions and displays. Roam the  remains of the once largest  Cathedral in Scotland, then you could climb the tower for the views.
TOLQUHON CASTLE
	15 miles north of Aberdeen on the A920 Tel : 01651-851286 Tolquhon is one of the most picturesque castles in Grampian, it has a fine ornamental gatehouse and a 15th century  tower which was enlarged later with a fine mansion and courtyard set within it's Barmkin or perimeter wall.
URQUHART CASTLE
	Drumnadrochit  on the A82 south of Inverness Tel : 01456-450551email : hs.urquhart@scotland.gsi.gov.uk . Dating back to the 13th century it has a long history. This ruined medieval castle commands stunning views over Loch Ness. It was involved in the power struggles during it's history. The turbulent history of the Clans, Durward, Macdonald and Grant all played a part in it's past are told  in the visitor centre.