Top 6 Castles in Angus

For families, Edzell Castle and Gardens offers a large ruin to explore and tranquil gardens. Additionally, Brechin Castle, while largely an 18th-century reconstruction, features a Brechin Castle Centre with a children's farm and play area, making it a good option for younger visitors.

Yes, Edzell Castle and Gardens is particularly famous for its unique Renaissance-styled walled garden, created in 1604. Brechin Castle also boasts impressive grounds, including a highly regarded 13-acre walled garden known for its azaleas, rhododendrons, and peonies in spring.

Glamis Castle offers a rich historical experience as the ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since 1372, with strong royal connections and inspiration for Shakespeare's Macbeth. Invermark Castle Ruins, a 16th-century tower house, provides a glimpse into the region's past in a dramatic, isolated setting.

Absolutely. The Angus Glens, where Invermark Castle Ruins is located, offer numerous hiking opportunities. You can find detailed routes, including mountain hikes, in the Mountain Hikes in Angus guide. For easier walks, explore the Easy hikes in Angus guide, which features trails like the Monikie Country Park loop.

Yes, Angus offers various cycling routes. The Cycling in Angus guide includes routes like the 'Scotland Trail: Glen Esk and Loch Lee Loop' and the 'North Sea Cycle Route: Carnoustie and Arbirlot Loop', which can bring you close to the region's historical sites and scenic landscapes.

While Glamis Castle and Edzell Castle are popular, Invermark Castle Ruins offers a more rugged and isolated experience, requiring a scenic walk to reach. Farnell Castle, a late 16th-century tower house, is also less frequented by the general public, though typically not open for internal access.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for visiting Angus castles, as the weather is milder and gardens like those at Edzell and Brechin are in full bloom. Many sites, such as Edzell Castle and Gardens, are managed by Historic Scotland and are open during the summer months.

Angus has several atmospheric ruins. Invermark Castle Ruins is a 16th-century tower house ruin set in the dramatic Angus Glens, offering a powerful historical appeal. Red Castle Ruins, a 15th-century structure on the bank of the River Lunan, is also a notable ruin, though closer access is fenced off due to erosion.

Angus showcases a range of architectural styles. You'll find grand baronial architecture at Glamis Castle, the distinctive pink sandstone of Edzell Castle, and the robust tower house designs characteristic of Invermark Castle and Farnell Castle. Brechin Castle, while dating back to the 13th century, largely reflects 18th-century reconstructions.

Yes, Balintore Castle, originally built as a sporting lodge, is currently undergoing extensive renovation. Some rooms are already available, offering a unique opportunity to see a historic property being brought back to life.

Angus castles offer several unique features. Edzell Castle is renowned for its unique walled garden with intricate stone carvings. Glamis Castle stands out for its royal connections and literary inspiration (Shakespeare's Macbeth). Invermark Castle Ruins is notable for its isolated, dramatic setting within the Angus Glens.

Glamis Castle has its own restaurant and cafe facilities on-site. For other castles, you'll often find local cafes and pubs in nearby towns and villages. For instance, towns close to Edzell Castle or Brechin Castle will offer dining options.