castles in scotland

Monuments to Angus’ rich historical culture are abundantly evident, especially when looking at the castles and great houses of the area. Angus is home to some great Scottish castles.

With its fairytale turrets and secret rooms, Glamis Castle is perhaps one of the world's most famous romantic castles; a perfect setting for any little princess. Glamis is the birthplace of the late Princess Margaret and the childhood home of her mother Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

The 17th century beautiful walled garden at Edzell Castle, unique in Scotland with its carved wall decorations, is also well worth a visit. Edzell Castle is an atmospheric ruin set in a lovely tranquil Angus glen. It illustrates the rich side of life in late medieval Scotland with its comfortable castle, pleasant location and extraordinary garden. The castle was the seat of the Lindsay Lord’s of Edzell who acquired it in 1358 through marriage.

The House of Dun, an eighteenth century house, overlooking the Montrose Basin, and designed by William Adam and built for David Erskine, is another historical house worth visiting. It contains many original family mementos, antiques and exquisite period furnishings to give a real sense of eighteenth century Scottish life.

Affleck Castle is located nine miles northeast of Dundee, just to the west of the town of Monikie, in Angus, Tayside (route B978). It is in almost perfect condition, however, it is not open to the public.

Over the Tay Bridge, in historic Fife, is Falkland Palace. The magnificent Royal Palace of Falkland was built by James IV and James V between 1450 and 1541 as their country residence. Portraits of the Stuart kings and queens hang in the palace and you can get a flavour of palace life when you enter the King’s Bedchamber and the Queen’s Room, both restored by the National Trust. The Chapel Royal and the Keeper’s Apartments in the Gatehouse are also on view to visitors.

Located on a promontory on the River Tay, Broughty Castle a 15th century fort is today home to a local history and maritime museum as it overlooks the riverfront of the Tay.