B7003, Roslin EH25 9PX
Rosslyn Castle
Roslin Castle is a partially ruined castle near the village of Roslin in Midlothian, Scotland. It is located around 9 mi south of Edinburgh, on the north bank of the North Esk, only a few hundred metres from the famous Rosslyn Chapel.
Location
About
Rosslyn Castle is a magnificent fortress located near the village of Roslin, in the Midlothian region of Scotland. This beautiful castle, steeped in history, is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to discover the rich cultural heritage of Scotland.
The castle was built in the 14th century by Sir William St. Clair, who was the first Earl of Caithness. The castle was used as a residence for the St. Clair family for over three centuries until it was partially destroyed by Cromwell's forces during the English Civil War.
Despite the partial destruction, Rosslyn Castle still retains much of its former grandeur, and visitors to the site can explore its ruins, which offer a glimpse into its former glory. The castle's most striking feature is its imposing tower, which looms over the surrounding landscape and affords visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
One of the most notable aspects of Rosslyn Castle is its connection to the Knights Templar, a secretive order of warrior-monks who played a significant role in medieval Europe. The St. Clair family, who built the castle, were known to have close ties to the Knights Templar, and it is believed that the castle was designed to serve as a secret meeting place for the order.
Visitors to Rosslyn Castle can also explore its beautiful surrounding grounds, which include a stunning parkland and an enchanting woodland. The castle is situated on a steep hill, and visitors can take a leisurely walk around the grounds to enjoy the picturesque views and natural beauty of the area.
Rosslyn Castle is also steeped in legend and folklore. One of the most famous stories is that of the "White Lady," a ghostly figure said to haunt the castle's ruins. According to local legend, the White Lady was a member of the St. Clair family who was tragically killed in a hunting accident. Her ghost is said to appear on moonlit nights, wandering through the castle ruins.
In addition to its rich history and legends, Rosslyn Castle also features prominently in popular culture. The castle was featured in the bestselling book "The Da Vinci Code" by Dan Brown, and has also been featured in various films and television shows.
Overall, Rosslyn Castle is a fascinating and enchanting destination that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Scotland's rich cultural heritage. Its impressive ruins, stunning grounds, and intriguing legends make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, folklore, or simply seeking to explore the natural beauty of Scotland.
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Things to do nearby
Rosslyn Castle is a historic landmark located in the picturesque village of Roslin, just a short distance from the bustling city of Edinburgh. Known for its rich history and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Rosslyn Castle is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Scotland. In this article, we will explore some of the top places and things to do nearby Rosslyn Castle from a tourist perspective.
1. Visit Rosslyn Chapel
One of the most famous attractions in the area is Rosslyn Chapel, located just a short distance from the castle. Built in the 15th century, this stunning chapel is known for its intricate carvings and stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can take a guided tour of the chapel and learn about its rich history, including its connections to the Knights Templar and the Da Vinci Code.
2. Take a Walk in Roslin Glen
For those who love the great outdoors, Roslin Glen is the perfect place to explore. This beautiful nature reserve is home to a variety of walking trails, including the famous Roslin Glen Country Park Trail. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and spot local wildlife, such as otters, herons, and kingfishers.
3. Explore Edinburgh Castle
No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to Edinburgh Castle, one of the country's most famous landmarks. Located just a short drive from Roslin, this stunning castle is steeped in history and offers visitors the chance to explore its many rooms, including the Great Hall, Royal Palace, and Scottish National War Memorial.
4. Sample Scottish Whisky at Glenkinchie Distillery
For whisky lovers, a visit to Glenkinchie Distillery is a must. This historic distillery, located just a short distance from Roslin, has been producing some of Scotland's finest whisky for over 180 years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery and learn about the whisky-making process, before sampling some of the distillery's finest products.
5. Visit the Scottish Parliament
For those with an interest in politics, a visit to the Scottish Parliament is a must. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short drive from Roslin, this stunning building is home to the Scottish Parliament and offers visitors the chance to take a guided tour and learn about the workings of the Scottish government.
6. Go Shopping on Princes Street
No trip to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to Princes Street, the city's main shopping district. Located just a short distance from Roslin, this bustling street is home to a variety of high-end shops, department stores, and local boutiques, making it the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or two.
In conclusion, Rosslyn Castle and the surrounding area offer visitors a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. From exploring historic landmarks and natural beauty spots to sampling local whisky and shopping for souvenirs, there is something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Scotland. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a trip to Rosslyn Castle is sure to be an unforgettable experience.