Top 12 Castles around Ratho And District

An excellent base for visiting Scotland's mystical capital city.

A lively place, with good pubs...

Edinburgh Castle has been home to kings and queens for centuries. Queen Margaret (who later became a saint) died here in 1093. The chapel built in her honour by her son, King David I, is the oldest building in Edinburgh. St Margaret’s Chapel still hosts weddings and christenings today. The Great Hall, completed in 1511 for King James IV, hosted grand banquets and state events. But the king had little time to enjoy his new addition. James IV was killed at the Battle of Flodden in 1513, fighting English forces sent by his brother-in-law, King Henry VIII of England. Above the door to the Royal Palace are the gilt initials MAH – for Mary Queen of Scots and her second husband Henry Stewart, Lord Darnley. Mary gave birth to James VI at the Royal Palace in 1566. He became King of Scotland at the age of 13 months and united the crowns of Scotland and England in 1603. The Scottish Honours are the oldest crown jewels in the UK. Made of gold, silver and precious gems, they were created in Scotland and Italy during the reigns of James IV and James V. The crown, sceptre and sword of state were first used together to crown a monarch in 1543, when Mary Queen of Scots came to the throne. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/the-castle/history

Edinburgh Castle is a world-famous icon of Scotland and part of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. Set on a massive rock, Edinburgh Castle’s strategic advantage is clear. Recognising the military potential of the site, Iron Age men built a fort on the rock. Early medieval poetry tells of a war band feasting here for a year before riding to their deaths in battle. As well as presiding over some of history’s greatest moments, the castle has suffered numerous sieges. It changed hands many times during the Wars of Independence. In 1314, the Scots retook the castle from the English in a daring night raid led by Thomas Randolph, nephew of Robert the Bruce. The castle’s defences have evolved over hundreds of years. Mons Meg, one of the largest medieval cannons ever made, was presented to King James II in 1457. The crescent battery, built in the aftermath of Lang's siege in 1573, was armed for 200 years by bronze guns known as the Seven Sisters. Six more guns defend the Argyle Battery, with an open view to the north. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/the-castle/history

Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest sites in Europe. With a long and rich history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress, it is alive with many exciting stories. When you climb Castle Hill, you will be walking in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens – and even the odd pirate or two.

"Nowhere is Scottish identity as well-kept as in Edinburgh. Tartan, kilts and bagpipes are omnipresent. Edinburgh's old town is Scotland's number one tourist attraction. The classicist New Town, Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood House and numerous historic buildings have been declared cultural monuments." This is what it says on the ARD media library's website for the series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity". The film contribution (in German) corresponding to the highlight can be found at the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/edinburgh-grossbritannien-folge-139/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTY0MjEy

Worth the small detour from the main route to visit this castle. Great views across the Forth and to the bridges.

The official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland, this impressive palace is deeply rooted in the country's history and offers visitors a unique insight into royal life and Scottish history. Designed and built between 1671 and 1678 by Sir William Bruce, the palace exemplifies the splendor and architectural elegance of the 17th century. Holyrood Palace stands on the foundations of a monastery dating back to 1128 and has witnessed many historical events over the centuries. It is closely linked to the history of the Stuart dynasty and witnessed many pivotal moments in Scotland's past. When you enter the palace you are immediately transported to another time. Every room, hall and corridor tells its own story, from the magnificent state apartments used for official occasions to the private apartments of the royal family. The finely appointed rooms, rich in art and antiques, offer a fascinating insight into Scotland's royal history and heritage. One of the highlights of a visit is the palace's beautiful gardens, which offer an oasis of calm in the middle of the bustling city. The contrast between the ancient walls of the palace and the modern Scottish Parliament building nearby highlights the unique connection between past and present that characterizes Edinburgh. Holyrood Palace is not just a place for history lovers. During the annual Holyrood Week in the summer, when the Queen traditionally makes her official visit to Scotland, the palace becomes the center of national celebrations and events. Although the palace is not open to the public during the royal visit, any other time of year offers the opportunity to explore this magnificent building and its gardens.