The history of Scotland is fascinating and complex.

Centuries of conflicts with England and alliances with France brought a distinct architectural style for castles with turrets and pointed towers and union with England in 1707 resulted in a cultural flowering in the Lowlands when castles were expanded into palaces, however,  in the Highlands, where rebellion festered, impregnable fortresses survive.  Queen Victoria’s passion for Scotland and all things Scottish brought 19^th century embellishments to many a medieval fortress, creating much of the Scotland that we see today. 

From Edinbrugh and beyond

From the Palladian galleries of Dumfries House in the far South West to the Queen Mother’s beloved Castle of Mey on the far North Coast, Scotland’s heritage encompasses rugged fortresses, palaces and graceful residences.  Ancient castles at Dunvegan, Glamis and Cawdor contrast with lowland palaces at Floors Castle, Hopetoun House and Thirlestane Castle. 

Head to the Highlands for Inveraray Castle’s 18^th century French interiors or Mount Stuart’s gilded and galleried Marble Hall.  Don’t miss Scotland’s famous gardens particularly in the South West, where the Gulf Stream warms the coast and creates a microclimate for the gardens at Castle Kennedy.