Findlater Castle
Findlater Castle is a ruined 13th-century fortress perched dramatically on a narrow clifftop promontory above the Moray Firth, with sheer drops on three sides and the sea stretching out beyond. The combination of crumbling stone walls, coastal erosion, and the raw North Sea below makes this one of the most atmospheric castle ruins in Scotland. Shoot from the clifftop across to the ruins with the firth as your backdrop, or get low on the rocky edges to emphasize the vertiginous drop beneath the walls. Overcast days work beautifully here, softening the light and adding mood to the grey stone, though golden hour on a clear evening can be stunning. A wide angle lens suits the dramatic landscape, while a longer focal length helps isolate the ruins against the sea. The path from the car park near Cullen is steep and uneven, so wear appropriate footwear, and keep a safe distance from the unfenced cliff edges. Bottlenose dolphins are occasionally spotted in the bay below, adding a rare bonus to your visit. (Banff and Buchan, Scotland)
