Inverlochy Castle and Eilean Donan Castle
 

Have any of you ever had tea or lunch at Inverlochy Castle. Thought it might be an alternative plan in case weather doesn't work for a hike. Also, I know that Eilean Donan Castle is supposedly one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, what is the interior like. I had read a review saying the exterior was the best and maybe not as worthy of an interior visit.

You can safely skip the interior. The exterior is a 10 minute photo stop tops.

And a lifelong memory.

I thought the interior was interesting. There was a fellow discussing ancient Scottish battle tactics (not very sophisticated!), and displaying period weapons.

But then I'm not much on stately homes or palaces, so I didn't mind not seeing grand halls etc. I prefer ruined castles. I believe Eilean Donan was restored.

Yes - it is 'interesting' - but 100 other castles (ruins or 'stately' home versions) are more interesting. Scotland has scores of interesting castles. IMO it is not worth the effort/time unless you have weeks, and you don't.

“not very sophisticated!”

Yes but they left us as probably the only unconquered country in a Europe.

Septimus Severus moved everything : 75% of the Roman legions, the senate, the treasury, the whole Roman apparatus to govern ... all moved to York with the sole aim of wiping us out....he failed.

Eilean Donan is a chocolate box.
If you want a castle in the context of desolate moors, shocking weather, ungovernable lands, blood and death then visit Hermitage Castle.

Shocking place.

Regardless of whether it's worth a tour inside or not, the OP simply doesn't have the time to tour Eileen Donan ( see itinerary ). As far as a photo stop unless you want all those pesky tourists in the picture, you'll need to be there long before it opens or some time after it closes. My best pictures of Eilean Donan Castle are in a book on my coffee table.