Scotland’s history as a strong Nation having never been conquered even by the famous Romans means that it is adept in the art of building strong defences. This means the country has an abundance of castles that provide you with some great photography opportunities and even dominate the sky line of some of the big cities. A big change from the skyline of New York were old is deemed as something build in the 50’s. Let’s look at some real history and find you a great Castle to visit.

Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

This castle is breathtaking and immense. It dominates the coastline sitting high on the rock giving you a great view out into the sea.

The castle is now a ruin but you can see how galling this would have been to attempt to attack with the enemy forces having to take the one narrow path straight towards the main gate. With coves either side this will provide a nice day out to explore the castle and have a walk or a picnic on the beaches. Be prepared for a bitingly cold wind as this is North Scotland.

Inveraray Castle, Argyle

This castle is the permanent seat of the Duke of Argyle and is more modern than most Castles in Scotland. Having opened in 1789 this castle still has some amazing history to it, and provides some great views of the nearby Loch Fyne. With a more Gothic style, this perfectly maintained castle is splendor to see, with small intricacies abundant in the masonry.

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

If you have visited the Capital of Scotland before you will have seen the castle, it is the dominant feature of the skyline. Sitting on an old volcanic rock you can look up from Princes Street gardens at the wall which was used to defend from attacks. He Castle is open to the public and plays host the International Festival every year in Autumn. The walk up to the castle from the Royal Mile gives you a great view across the city down to the deck of Leith and across the Firth of Forth to the kingdom of Fife. Don't you know the Edinburgh Castle is one of the most haunted castles in the world? Zak Bagan from travel channel proved the message.

Be warned if visiting this castle that there is a daily firing of the One O’clock gun which makes a large sound, often frightening visitors.

Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow

If you are an avid follower of fashion you will have heard of this due to the recent Chanel fashion show that was held here. This palace is now a ruin but visitors can explore inside and see the size of the rooms and the scale of the building. Birth Place to Mary Queen of Scots this roofless structure is a great day out.

Eilean Donan Castle, West Highlands

Said to be one of the most iconic images of Scotland the Castle is situated at the meeting place of three lochs and provides you with a wonderful example of history. Unspoiled by any modernization you will be able to see a castle how it would have looked years ago. With the rolling hills basking in sunlight on all sides you will be transported to a different time when you visit this site, be sure to take a picture.

With two years to go to Scotland decides its future at a referendum you will see the long struggle for freedom has created some amazing buildings that we can all enjoy today during a far more peaceful time for the nation. You may notice that a lot of these places seem familiar in spite of you having never visited previously, Scotland is home to many film and TV programmers who use these structures for the backdrop to many great movies

Steven Hill