Visitors urged to storm our castles
Visitscotland: Bag a ruin and delve into our history
Visitscotland are encouraging visitors to go and see Scottish castles after research recently revealed that almost half of Brits have never visited one.
Offering over 20 Castles, including Bothwell and Newark, the national tourism organisation believes Greater Glasgow and the Clyde Valley is a fantastic place for visitors to start their castle trail as the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology comes to a close.
Bothwell Castle, is the largest and finest 13th century stone castle in Scotland.
Located in a beautiful setting overlooking the River Clyde, visitors can find out about medieval Scotland by exploring the prison tower and the great hall and chapel.
Other castles in the region include Craignethan Castle in Lanarkshire, Cadzow Castle in Hamilton and Mearns Castle in Newton Mearns.
All three are excellent examples of Greater Glasgow and the Clyde Valley’s rich heritage history.
In total, Scotland is thought to have around 3000 standing castles, ruins and documented sites.
Of these, about 1050 are merely sites, including those where a house has been built on the site of a previous castle and about 825 are standing ruins.
From World Heritage Sites to listed buildings, cultural traditions to myths, stories and legends, the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology has celebrated 270 events across the Scotland and a wealth of activity including workshops, competitions and new products developed in celebration of the year.
Annique Armstrong, Visitscotland Regional Director, said: “Castles are an iconic and integral part of Scotland’s history and culture.
“From the grandiose Bothwell Castle to the elegance of Newark, there is something unique and special about every single one and each has their own significant story to tell.
“Scotland’s and fascinating history and culture is one the top reasons for visiting Scotland. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience a Scottish castle in their lifetime, and, with so many options, Great Glasgow and the Clyde Valley is the perfect place to start.
“I encourage everyone to make it their mission to bag a Scottish castle on their visit here.”