Top Things to do in The Hebrides
What to do and see in The Hebrides, Scotland: The Best Castles
This beautiful archipelago, where Scottish Gaelic is still spoken, is divided into the Inner and Outer Hebrides and stretches the length of Scotland's west coast. The most visited and largest of the Western Isles is the brooding Isle of Skye, a short ferry ride or bridge away from the mainland. Islay, home to prolific whisky production, is another gem. Highlights of the less visited Outer Isles include stark Lewis and the town of Stornoway, rugged Harris, with sandy beaches and tranquil Barra.
Restaurants in The Hebrides
1. Duart Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 663 reviews
For over 700 years, Duart Castle, the seat of Clan Maclean, has dominated the view to the Sound of Mull and Loch Linnhe with its huge curtain walls and solid keep. Tour the Castle, explore the grounds and learn more about the Clan. Enjoy the ancient Keep, ghostly Dungeons, magnificent Banqueting Hall, quaint Edwardian State Rooms and breathtaking views from the Battlements. Duart Castle was featured in a number of Hollywood films such as Sean Connery's, Entrapment (1999), "When Eight Bells Toll" (1971) with Antony Hopkins and "I Know Where I'm Going" (1945). The Castle is open from April through to October every year and hosts a number of Weddings and Events throughout the summer months such as Outdoor Theatre, Military Re-enactments, Music, Storytelling, Birds of Prey and Scottish Pipers and Highland Dancers. Travel to Mull via the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Lochaline to Fishnish or from Oban to Craignure. Duart Castle is a 10 minute drive from Craignure.
Reviewed By 441sandym
Great to be back at Duart Castle,i have been here many times,a lot of scaffolding around the castle,but it is needed for the renovation work going on at the castle it's looking great,really love it here,well worth a visit
2. Kinloch Castle
3. Kisimul Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 311 reviews
Reviewed By Haggs2013
Having seen so many images of this wonderful little Castle and having had a grandmother who was a MacNeil i had to visit this little castle in the sea, family visit out in the boat to the island it runs every 30 mins a short 3 min trip out and purchase tickets in small kiosk area there is still works ongoing in the castle and a couple of areas that cannot be viewed but it is possible to experience the majority easily enough
4. Dunscaith Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By 337karlf - Brighouse, United Kingdom
This is a spectacular castle which came across by chance. It is worthy of signs and now having read reviews that there were more things in the area, that is a huge disappointment. Difficult drive to get to area to park to walk to castle but is worth it. Stunning place - just wish historic Scotland would do more in promoting this site
5. Dunyvaig Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By 985harryk - Leven, United Kingdom
I used to live on Islay and would often walk my dogs around the castle. I would regularly see otters around the castle and even crossing my path when walking.
6. Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2,972 reviews
Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without enjoying the wealth of history and clan legend at 5* Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. Built on a rocky outcrop on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. Award winning gardens, seal boat trips, cafe, gift shops and holiday cottages. For more information about our opening times, admission prices, speical events and exhibitions, please visit our website.
Reviewed By 15Paul_D617 - Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom
Went in brilliant weather No queuing but car park was almost full Castle has lots of history, loads of family history Nice exhibits and knowledgable staff Gardens pleasant to wander around, especially beautiful water garden and walled garden Picnic benches and great views
7. Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum of the Isles
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 618 reviews
Visit our stunning Highland estate on Sleat, on the southern tip of the magical Isle of Skye. Wander through glorious gardens set around the imposing ruins of Armadale Castle, former home of Clan Donald in the Isle of Skye. Explore 40 acres of beautiful woodland walks and enjoy spectacular views over the sea to the majestic mountains of Knoydart. Learn about Highland history in our fascinating Museum of the Isles, Skye's only Museums Galleries Scotland accredited museum. Stay in our well-equipped self-catering holiday lodges and luxury suites. Armadale Castle, Garden & Museum is a Visit Scotland 5 Star Visitor Attraction at the heart of a 20,000 acre estate, operated by registered charity the Clan Donald Lands Trust.
Reviewed By HH639 - Raalte, The Netherlands
We have been here some years ago and wanted to come back. We started at the very atmospheric cafe in the former stables for a simple lunch and enjoyed it. Not very many decades ago the castle was still intact. But if you want to visit Armadale Castle now be prepared to see ruins only from the outside (for safety reasons). It's impressive nevertheless. The Gardens are beautiful and well looked after, varied and with some old trees. It a nice place to wander around. The small museum in a modern building is especially attractive for those interested in the history of the Clan MacDonald.
8. Castle Maol
9. Moy Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By CathyGilman - London, United Kingdom
Lochbuie is a beautiful mix of history, landscape and wildlife and there's an all new coffee shop too. There is a very good footpath that takes you past the tiny church, the castle and all around the bay where highland cattle mix with oyster catchers, rabbits and goldfinches pulling apart the thistles.
10. Lews Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 707 reviews
Overlooking Stornoway harbour, the impressive gothic-revival style castle was built in the mid 1800’s by Sir James Matheson. Since then this beautiful building has also served as a hospital during WW2, a college, a school and now as an iconic wedding venue and luxurious holiday destination with Together Travel. Serving delicious hand-prepared dishes as well as local delicacies, our Storehouse cafe is the perfect place to take a moment after your exploration of the Lews Castle grounds. Enjoy a frothy coffee or two from the comfort of our unique eatery, before tucking into our tasty specials of the day. Pick up the perfect souvenir from your visit to our retail outlet 'The Outfitters', during your time at Lews Castle. From gorgeous gifts to luxury clothing and foodie treats, we've got you covered. Outfitters Store: 10am-4pm
Reviewed By chefangusstornoway - Grand Rapids, United States
Loved the staff. Very helpful at every turn, polite and friendly. Manager was exceptional from the first meeting till the last nights dinner. Cafe and food service excelent. Fantastic spacious rooms and the incredible facilities in the kitchen and living areas.Loved the linens and the Harris tweed cushions (where did you get them)
