Castles in Scotland
Border feuds, not just with England, but also with their neighbors, spurred much of the architecture of Scottish castles. The tower house, built for two purposes-to serve as both a home and a defense against attack-was often the basis for further expansion into a full-blown castle. Some tower houses remained just that and mirror a harsh and dangerous way of life. For more information you might enjoy the Scottish Castles Association.

Portencross Castle
Portencross, Strathclyde
This 14th-century stronghold of the Boyd family stands on a rocky headland looking over the Firth of Clyde. Once a resting place for Scottish kings on their way to burial … ... more
Many visitors come to Scotland just to see these historic castles:
Castle A-Z GazetteersEngland | Scotland | Wales
Feature Articles
The evolution of Medieval Castles
Feudalism & Medieval Life
Castle Photo Galleries
English Castles
Scottish Castles
Castles of Wales
Our picks as the 5 most scenic castles in Scotland:

