1 Dumbarton Castle
Set majestically upon a rock with stunning views over the Firth of Clyde and is a cornerstone of medieval royal power which later served as a military base and prison. The castle was once centre of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde and later conquered by Vikings.
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2 Rothesay Castle
Take a ferry to the Isle of Bute and cross the drawbridge over the moat to this powerful stronghold built in the 1200s. You can climb the ‘bloody stair’ to the circular ramparts and descend into a forbidding prison pit. The castle had been a royal base and was twice besieged and captured by the Norse.
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3 Bothwell Castle
Scotland’s largest and finest 13th-century castle offers fantastic views of the River Clyde. Explore the 14th-century chapel dating back to the Black Douglases and the medieval prisons as well as the unparalleled circular keep tower. You can also access the beautiful Clyde Walkway from here and enjoy a stroll along the river.
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4 Newark Castle
Step into this 16th century castle and enjoy fantastic views of the Firth of Clyde. Located on the eastern edge of the Port of Glasgow, Newark Castle is one of the most remarkable examples of Renaissance architectural planning in Scotland, including rare interior furnishings and decoration.
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