Onward and upward to the Highlands

Captivating Castles, the bastions of our heritage

Stirling Castle, facade

If I were a medieval brick or block of limestone in an ancient castle wall – the stories I could tell! The gossip, the intrigue, the battles, love and honour, nothing would I leave out. Whatever the story, all castles and fortresses have battled for survivial, some have been successful others less so but together they have formed the history of our nation.

Stirling Castle, throne room

On our way up to the Highlands, I will highlight three castles that have survived and are thriving examples of how enthusiasm and dedication can keep our Scottish heritage alive and well in the 21st century.

Built on volcanic rock, Stirling Castle was residence to the kings of Scotland from the 12th century. It is an imposing and well-preserved castle overlooking the meanders of the river Forth. A breathtaking view. I was delighted with the majesty and elegance of the castle. The town of Stirling houses the Bannock Burn visitors centre: “The Battle of Bannockburn, 24 June 1314, was a significant Scottish victory in the First War of Scottish Independence, and a landmark in Scottish history.”

Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace has, in recent years, gained in recognition because of the popular Netflix series Outlander*. In the series it served as Wentworth prison. In reality, Mary Queen of Scots was born here in 1542 and later on, also her half-sister Elizabeth (later Elizabeth I of England) in 1596. Now, sadly, a ruin, Linlithgow still makes an impression, situated in the middle of a lush, green landscape on the edge of Linlithgow Loch. Nowadays, Linlithgow Palace holds jousting tournaments in the summer time as well as guided walks and other seasonal events. Grab the opportunity to stay a while and picnic by the loch.

*(Hunterston House has also featured in the series!).

Interesting: to save on building costs, roofs and interiors of the castles were built with wood. Wood is susceptible to woodworm, dry rot, mould and other natural rotting processes. Without the building techniques that preserve wood today, (and given the Scottish climate!), it would have been very difficult and costly to maintain interior design. And as for keeping a watertight lid on the whole building, well, the costs would have gone through the roof……..!

Inveraray Castle, facade

Inveraray Castle, armoury

While at Hunterston last year, we visited Inveraray Castle. Situated on the edge of Loch Fyne about 100km (60 miles) from Glasgow, it preserves a quiet majesty. It is the home to the Dukes of Argyll and the seat of Clan Campbell. The Campbells have been close allies to the Kings and Queens of Scotland and England throughout the centuries, looking after their lands and defending their realms.

Driving up there through the glens and along the lochs and reservoirs of Argyll, the kilometres just slipped away. Around each bend is another wonderful view.

Be prepared to spend some time admiring Inveraray Castle (which feels like a home), and wandering through the gardens. Take a walk through their woods and climb up high for a breathtaking panoramic view of Loch Fyne and the castle grounds below. Worth every step! Return to the tea room for a well-deserved (warm) beverage and a slice of homemade cake!

Glamis Castle

I know I said that I would show you 3 castles, but I can’t resist just mentioning Glamis Castle. Not far from Dundee on the east coast of Scotland, this was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mother. Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, as she then was, grew up in a large family of 10 children, her father was the 14th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne. She married the then Prince Albert who became George VI after his brother’s abdication. Her eldest daughter is well known to us all, Queen Elizabeth II.

Join me in the next blog about the Highlands of Scotland – the lochs and national parks.