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. If you'd like to stay in a Scottish castle, see our Castle Hotels in Scotland page. For more information you might enjoy the Scottish Castles Association.
Dalmellington Mote
Dalmellington, Strathclyde
A conical motte, or mote, surrounded by a wide bailey enclosure, built around 1200 by Thomas Colville Le Scott. No structures survive, but the mound is extremely well preserved. ... 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:
