Glenapp Castle Hotel

From impressive ruins to ominous stone structures, the castles of Scotland offer a glimpse into a colourful past. But they’re not all relics – so why not imagine yourself laird of the manor and book a stay in one? Here’s our roundup of the best castle hotels where you can spend the night.
Savour a taste of the good life complete with creature comforts in the historic setting of Fonab Castle, an opulent, five-star castle hotel set amid lochs, mountains, rivers and woodland. The castle, which has been perfectly restored, comprises plush guestrooms, adorned with gold accents and crisp white linens, and some of the most best cuisine you’ll find north of the border. A castle wouldn’t be complete without a luscious spa and stunning loch views, of course. Roam the extensive grounds and bask in your very own fairytale.
Head an hour out of Inverness, in the Scottish Highlands, and you’ll come to Dornoch Castle, a family-run hotel built around 1500 that’s rich in character and history. Each room is decorated in a different theme and exudes a soothing ambience while staying true to that classic castle style, with wood-panelled walls, vast stone fireplaces, heavy drapes and carved four-poster beds complete with the obligatory tartan touches. There are 24 rooms, but not all of them are in the castle proper – some are garden rooms in a 1970s extension block, so make sure you know what you’re getting before you book.
For more historic locations you can stay in, read our article on Castles you can book through Airbnb