Abandoned beauties in Scotland

Old Castle Lachlan is a beautiful little ruin on the banks of Loch Fyne. It serves as head of the MacLachlan clan, who are one of the oldest Scottish Highland clans, and were faithful Jacobite soldiers. The castle came into ruin after the Battle of Culloden in 1746, where their 17th chief was killed. It is said that a government ship sailed up the loch and shelled the castle after the defeat and hasn’t been habited since. Today there are great walks around the castle, and it’s a great place for a picnic or to stretch out after your epic dinner at Inver.

Skara Brae is like no place you’ve ever visited before. You can really imagine how those ancient communities lived in this excellently preserved neolithic village. It was uncovered in 1850 after a wild storm exposed the site hidden beneath a sand dune. You can see how the villagers carved beds and hearths out of stone, and even how they raised their families. The different houses are linked by covered tunnels, and you understand why when you feel the famous Orkney wind. Over the years, some incredible finds have been made here, including jewellery and pottery. The tour is essential and can be booked online through Historic Scotland. It really is a must if you’re on the island.

Edzell Castle is a ruined castle built in the 1500s, and was home to the powerful Lindsay family, who hosted famous guests such as Mary, Queen of Scots. The Lindsays had to sell Edzell in 1715 because of mounting debts and the new owner, Earl of Panmure, lost it because of his part to play in the Jacobite rising. This castle nobles’ residence might be over, but its gardens certainly aren’t. The walled garden or ‘Pleasance’ was built in 1604 and is a marvellous walled garden to visit. In the walls you can spot a series of carved panels that depict the seven cardinal virtues, the liberal arts and the planetary deities. They are unique to Scotland and said to have links between esoteric traditions and freemasonry.

Slains Castle is a very impressive ruin that lies just outside Cruden Bay. Constructed in 1597 the castle looms over the cliffs edge, and has a slight eerie feel to the grounds. It’s no wonder then why this castle served as serious inspiration for Bram Stoker’s famous Dracula. Be careful when exploring the castle and near the cliffs, especially when it’s windy, as it’s easy to loose footing. Park in the small carpark off the A975 or take the slight longer walk in from Cruden Bay. “Once again... welcome to my house. Come freely. Go safely; and leave something of the happiness you bring.” – Bram Stoker, Dracula

Dunnottar Castle or Dùn Fhoithear in Gaelic means ‘Fort on the shelving slope’ and describes one of the most influential medieval castles in Scotland’s history. The heavily fortified ruin stands strong 49 metres above the North Sea and is bursting with history. The oldest Pictish fort to ever be found was discovered just north of the castle, legends like William Wallace have captured it and Mary, Queen of Scots, and James VI have both been visitors here. The views are stunning looking out across the narrow path to the castle and the tour is well worth paying for. If you want to walk to the castle from Stonehaven, there is a great cliff top walk. Download the simple map from the Dunnottar website. Not to be missed if you are ‘castle bagging’.