The Scottish capital of Edinburgh, by its nature, is nothing but inspirational. As the centre of Royalty since the 15th Century, it has a proud and enviable history and heritage. The region in and around the city sees a number of fine castles dominating the varying landscapes, and a visit is bound to entertain and enthral.
Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh
Originally a monastery dating back to early the 1100's, Holyrood, at the bottom of the Royal Mile, has been a royal residence since the 15th Century, and HM the Queen spends at least one week there in the summer every year. During its existence, it has seen kins and queesn from down the ages in residence, as well as many foreign dignitaries as guests - James II was born there, James VII lived there as did the Comte d'Artois, the youngest brother of Louis XVI. Oliver Cromwell set fire to the palace and more recently, it has welcomed Pope Benedict XVI, Nelson Mandela, François Mitterrand, Helmut Kohl, and Vladimir Putin as guests. The rooms once occupied by Mary, Queen of Scots are also located here.
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh
It is fair to say that every visitor to Edinburgh will have seen the country's most iconic castle, proudly looking over city from atop the city's extinct volcano. It also houses St Margaret's Chapel, acknowledged as the oldest building in the city. The Castle has stood the test of tim of many major conflicts, including the 14th Century Wars of Scottish Independence and the Jacobite Rising of 1745. It also served as an imposing military base from the 17th Century onwards. Currently home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, it is one of the most-visited historic attractiojns in Scotland today.
Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh
The ruined medieval Craigmillar Castle, dating back to the 14th Century, is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland, offering spectacular view of the capital and surroundings from its towers, the main tower house of which is said to be one of the oldest in Scotland. The Preston family were in residence for over 260 years until sold to the Gilmour family, when in the 18th Century it fell into ruin. It is perhaps most famously associated with Mary, Queen of Scots, when in 1566, she spent time there after the birth of her son who would become James I of England.
Tantallon Castle, North Berwick, Edinburgh
The location of this magnificent medieval castle, overlooking the North Sea, is nothing short of dramatic. It is the last of what was called a defensive curtain-walled castles to be built in Scotland. It was owned by the Douglas family for most of it working life. If there is one thing Tantallon was never short of, it was noteworthy battles - King James IV attacked in 1491, King James V in 1528 and Oliver Cromwell in 1651. These all resulted in it being abandoned in 1699. It is also said by many to be the origin of King Arthur's Camelot.
Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow, Edinburgh
Dating back to the 12th Century, Linlithgow Palace, with its outstanding great hall and huge windows is now a ruin, but nevertheless remains a very imposing structure. When Edward rebuilt the palace in 1424, this saw the beginning of a long line of royal associations with Linlithgow. James III, James IV and James V all added structures to the castle. One of the most famous royal assocations with Linlithgow saw the birth of Mary Queen of Scots in 1524, who was a regular visitor during her reign. However, in 1633, an overnight stay by King Charles marked the last royal visitor to the castle. The Duke of Cumberland's army razed the castle in 1746.
With perhaps two of the most famous castles in Scotland, if not the UK, Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse make Edinburgh a hard act to follow. Added to this the beauty and vibrancy of one of Europe's finest cities, and you have the perfect location for a truly memorable castle visit.
This article was written by James Smith, a contributing writer to WhichCastle.com, who specialise in providing comprehensive historical information on castles in Scotland, including the most impressive castles in Edinburgh and the Lothians.
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