Castles
Scotland has an abundance of castles. But firstly, a few words of caution. The word "castle" covers anything from a heap of ancient stones to magnificent chateaux. Many are 19th century hunting lodges; others were merely the main houses of small estates which only got the appellation "castle" in the heyday of Victorian tourism in the steam railway age.
A considerable number are still private dwelling houses, while others (encompassing the majority of the most interesting) are in the scrupulous care of Historic Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland.
While some are open on a seasonal basis of spring to autumn (Fall), a few have very restricted access of guided tours only through pre-booking such as Rowallan, Ayrshire (pictured above - enquire through Historic Scotland only).
The county is blessed with a number of particularly attractive sites.
Culzean Castle is set at the edge of dramatic cliffs overlooking the Firth of Clyde. It was built in the last quarter of the 18th c. by Europe's most distinguished neo-Classical architect, Robert Adam for the Marquis of Ailsa, head of the Kennedy family. It is now in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. http://www.culzeanexperience.org/
The most up-to-date history of Culzean Castle was published by Edinburgh University Press and written by Prof. Michael Moss. It is lavishly illustrated and meticulously researched; going way beyond the usual topic of feuds to include gardening, Indian wars, game hunting, temperence, heroic gambling, farming, sailing, financial difficulties and good taste.
Available in hardback and paperback, it can be obtained for the special price of £10 (paperback) via the link below .
The Magnificent Castle of Culzean and the Kennedy Family
ISBN: 0 7486 1723 X
http://www.eup.ed.ac.uk/edition_details.aspx?id=11454
SPECIAL PRICE £10 if ordered via the above link.
Dundonald Castle is the birthplace of the Stewart royal dynasty which ruled Scotland from the early 14th c. and England from 1603 to 1714. Although greatly reduced from its former grand scale, its barrel-vaulted hall is awesome, as are the views from the top of the castle. The Visitor Centre houses a small exhibition and tearoom.
http://www.dundonaldcastle.org.uk/
Dean Castle boasts impressive visitor numbers and it is easy to see why. The restored 15th c. keep and 17th c. palace block house a collection of armour and period musical instruments. The picture above, right was taken in the courtyard.
http://www.deancastle.com/index.htm
The most comprehensive information on Scottish castles in one place can be found here:
http://www.scotland-inverness.co.uk/Chatelaine/
For information on castles in the care of Historic Scotland (including Edinburgh and Stirling):
http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/properties.htm
For those with a wider interest in the castles of Scotland:
http://www.scottishcastlesassociation.com/