Why Are There So Many Ruined Castles in Scotland?

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Scotland’s Hidden Gem Castles – Secret fortresses, untold stories, and echoes of the past—discover the castles you may not have heard of but won’t forget. 👉 Read the full story

From clan wars to royal politics, discover why Scotland has more ruined castles than most countries—and which ones are worth the trip.

Scotland is famous for its dramatic landscapes—and among its most haunting features are the ruined castles that dot the hills, glens, and coastlines. From crumbling towers perched above lochs to half-forgotten stone walls hidden in the forest, these ruins whisper tales of power, betrayal, and centuries of conflict. But why are there so many?

At one time, it’s believed there were over 2,000 castles in Scotland. That’s roughly one every 40 square miles. Castles served as homes for nobility, strongholds for clans, military posts, and symbols of control. Yet by the 18th century, many had fallen into ruin. The reasons are woven through Scotland’s turbulent past.

A History of Conflict and Clans

Much of Scotland’s history was shaped by clan rivalries, border skirmishes, and wars of independence. Castles were built quickly—sometimes on top of older forts—to control territory or defend against neighbours. But when power shifted, many were burned, dismantled, or simply abandoned. Some were deliberately slighted (damaged beyond repair) after sieges to prevent them from being reused.

Royal Politics and Rebellion

The 17th and 18th centuries brought further upheaval. During the Jacobite uprisings, many Highland castles were destroyed or seized by government forces. After the defeat at Culloden in 1746, the British government cracked down hard, banning Highland dress, disarming the clans, and demolishing strongholds to suppress future rebellion. Castles that once stood as symbols of clan pride were left to decay.

Changing Tastes—and the Price of Stone

By the 19th century, old castles were seen as outdated and impractical. Wealthier families built modern homes, while old ruins became quarries—locals would take the stone to build cottages, walls, or farm buildings. Ironically, this loss of heritage helped fuel the later Romantic revival, where people began to value Scotland’s wild beauty and tragic past.

Castles Worth the Climb (or the Drive)

Some ruined castles are easy to reach, others need a bit of effort—but each tells a story:

• Kilchurn Castle – Sitting on the edge of Loch Awe, this photogenic ruin once belonged to Clan Campbell. It’s free to explore and framed by mountains.
• Dunnottar Castle – Perched on cliffs above the North Sea, this former fortress was where the Honours of Scotland (the crown jewels) were hidden from Cromwell.
• Hermitage Castle – A brooding relic in the Borders, known as one of Scotland’s most sinister places, linked to Mary, Queen of Scots and dark legends.
• Urquhart Castle – Overlooking Loch Ness, this popular ruin blends epic views with a tragic history of destruction during the Jacobite risings.

Today, Scotland’s ruined castles are more than tourist stops—they are reminders of a nation shaped by loyalty, rebellion, and survival. Each weathered stone has a tale to tell.

Scotland’s Hidden Gem Castles – Secret fortresses, untold stories, and echoes of the past—discover the castles you may not have heard of but won’t forget. 👉 Read the full story

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Secure Your Dream Scottish Experience Before It’s Gone!

Planning a trip to Scotland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions dampen your adventure. Iconic experiences like exploring Edinburgh Castle, cruising along Loch Ness, or wandering through the mystical Isle of Skye often fill up fast—especially during peak travel seasons.

Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Scotland's hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.

Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!