Five Scottish Gems to Add to Your Bucket List
There are few corners of Britain as stunning as Scotland. Below we break down some of the countries best kept secrets.
Blair Castle - Perthshire
Blair Castle sits at the centre of a vast ducal estate in the highlands of Scotland. Ancestral seat of the Dukes of Atholl and the Murray clan, Blair is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s greatest castles. With a deep & rich history, stunning views, lavish interiors and its own private army - the Atholl Highlanders. A visit to the Blair Atholl estate is a must for a truly authentic Scottish experience. The head trustee of the estate: Sarah Troughton spoke to us about the amazing history of her families home in series three of the podcast. Listen to her episode below.
Traquair - Borders
Nestled in the Scottish Borders is one of Scotland’s oldest inhabited stately homes. Ancestral seat of the Earls of Traquair, the house has a fascinating, ancient story with links to the Jacobites and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Indeed the 5th Earl said he would never open the gates of Traquair until a Stuart sat on the throne, needless to say they remain shut. Listen to the fascinating story of Traquair in Episodes, when Traquair’s owner Catherine Maxwell Stuart spoke to the podcast.
Dunvegan Castle - Skye
Sitting in some of Scotland’s greatest scenery on the Isle of Skye, is Dunvegan Castle, the ancient seat of Clan MacLeod and home of the legendary ‘Fairy Flag’. The castle boasts tremendous views across Loch Dunvegan, extensive gardens and grand interiors. Its history is one born out of myth & legend, its greatest heirloom being the mystical ‘Fairy Flag’ carried into ancient battles by the kinsman of Clan MacLeod, and is said to have magical properties.
Eilean Donan Castle - Highlands
Renowned throughout the world for adorning postcards and shortbread tins, the ancient Eilean Donan Castle sits at the confluence of three great sea lochs, Loch Duich, Loch Long & Loch Alsh. The castle remains an abiding symbol of Scotland and it’s proud history. However the castle lay in ruin until the 20th century when the MacRae clan restored it to its former glory. Today it is a must visit for Braveheart fans and visitors to Scotland alike.
Dunrobin Castle - Sutherland
Amongst Scotland’s greatest and largest castles is the little known Dunrobin Castle. Rising from its mound on the east coast of Sutherland, Dunrobin’s fairytale towers and turrets are home to elaborate, storied rooms, that were once home to the great Dukes of Sutherland. Today it is still the home of Clan Sutherland, who invite you to explore the breath-taking history of their home, walk their ornate gardens and marvel at the splendour of one of Scotland’s best kept secrets.