Castles in
Edinburgh and the Lothians

Edinburgh Castle may dominate the skyline, but the surrounding Lothians hold a much broader record of power, defence and aristocratic life. Volcanic rock, the Firth of Forth, fertile farmland and the exposed East Lothian coast created very different settings within a relatively compact travel region.

Craigmillar provides a quieter counterpoint to the capital fortress, while Tantallon and Dunbar confront the sea. Dirleton, Crichton and Hailes reveal different forms of noble residence; Linlithgow brings royal palace architecture to the shore of its loch; Blackness turns the Forth into a defensive corridor. Smaller sites such as Midhope, Redhouse and Saltcoats make the region particularly strong for layered day trips.