Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle
5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Perched atop a 160 foot rock and surrounded on three sides by the North Sea, these dramatic and evocative cliff-top ruins were once an impregnable fortress of the Earls Marischal, once one of the most powerful families in Scotland. Steeped in history, this romantic and haunting ruin is a photographer’s paradise, a history lover’s dream and an iconic tourist destination for visitors the world over.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Lesley HDerby, United Kingdom411 contributionsStunning castle visit.Stunning scenic location. Good parking and access to steps to castle. Well maintained ruins and grounds and good information boards. Not too busy which was wonderful and we were able to use our Historic House membership on entry. You need to be fit to climb the steps and access the castle and have a head for heights but it’s so worth it. Loved it.Thanks for taking the time to leave such a thorough review, great to hear that you enjoyed your visit and found the information provided to be of value. Thanks for taking the time to express appreciation for how well kept the Castle is, our staff put in a lot of effort to ensure it looks its best, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 21 September 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 September 2023
- WheresmebusNantwich, United Kingdom295 contributionsA lot of Steps.Walked to this via the cliff top route from Stonehaven, the unfolding views of the castle en route are quite breathtaking. The access to the castle is via a lot, yes note this, a lot of steps, first down and then up, there is no other way to get in. Once in the site, facilities are very sparse. There are loos, but limited. Take your own refreshments. It’s really worth the visit. Payment is card only, no cash accepted. There is a car parking are just off the A92 and access road. Facilities there are also very limited, though plans indicate intended improvements. The site is privately owned, it is not HS or NTS. Is it worth the money? Yes, just about. But there are an awful lot of castles in Scotland.Thanks for taking the time to leave such a thorough review, glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit. The strong historical defensive position of the Castle unfortunately also makes it challenging to reach for some modern day visitors. There are indeed a lot of Castles in Scotland that suit a variety of tastes and preferences, happily a lot of our visitors are very positive as to our ranking amongst them, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 3 October 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 September 2023
- Pammy351Dublin, Ireland12 contributionsVist to Dunnottar Castle ScotlandI would recommend a visit to Dunnottar Castle. It is mainly outdoors and many of the paths are either cobble stones or grass so wear strong walking boots with a good grip. There are a good few steps down to the site. You can spend as long as you like walking around the various ruins. There are amazing views from practically every window. There is a walk down to the small stone beach. Definitely worth the 2 hours spent there - this included having a yummy burger and chips served from a mobile catering unit.Many thanks for taking the time to leave a review, great to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the Castle, it sounds like you took the time to explore everything there is to see and glad you enjoyed the great food as well! Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 11 October 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 10 October 2023
- jdelineToronto, Canada104 contributionsWhat a view!This place was amazing but be prepared for the walk down and back up to the castle and then down and back up to get to your car. The steps are uneven, and definitely old but when you reach the top and look out over the grounds and the North Sea - wow! Was worth the huffing and puffing!Thanks for taking the time to leave a review, it is great to heart that you enjoyed your visit to the Castle. Good footwear is indeed essential, it does require some effort to reach the Castle but most visitors find it all worthwhile for the end experience and I'm glad that you fall into that category, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 30 November 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 30 November 2023
- 1776SJA23 contributionsStunning CastleThe ruins of this castle are a must see when you visit Scotland, especially if you're a photographer. Views of the exterior views of the castle are absolutely stunning. The interior is ruined, but well worth the visit. If you have mobility issues, you can easily get to areas to see the great exterior views. Going into the castle, though, requires going down and up step and narrow stairs on both ends of the walk to and from the castle.Thanks for taking the time to leave a review, it is great to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the Castle, it certainly is a dream location for photography, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 28 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 28 January 2024
- Steve EBarnetby le Wold, United Kingdom15 contributionsDunnottar CastleI have visited many castles and fortifications in the British Isles, but I must stress this is one of the best I have ever seen. In its heyday it would have been formidable. If you are a military or history buff this is a place you need to experience. Photos don’t do it enough justice; you need to experience it for yourself. You need to be physically fit to climb the access steps and some people may find it difficult. Wear warm clothes and suitable footwear, it gets very windy up there even on a good day. The information boards were very informative and easy to read. All in all, a good trip out, strongly recommended.Hi Steve, thanks for taking the time to leave such a nice review, it is great to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the Castle and rated it so highly amongst all the other castles you have visited. Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 23 February 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 February 2024
- Chris MWetherby, United Kingdom1,536 contributionsA spectacular location and site.We made a stop here whilst travelling from Aberdeen to Dundee. Unfortunately the castle ruins were not open at the time, but the view attracted us to venture down the very large number of steps to take a closer look from the outside. There are some places to rest if required. The location and the ruins look spectacular, and we would visit again to look inside, if in the areaHi Chris, thanks for taking the time to leave a review. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit even if you did not make it inside the Castle on this occasion, I hope we can welcome you inside another time, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 3 March 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 1 March 2024
- Carolyn SBristol, United Kingdom9 contributionsWild Card for Landscape Artist of the YearFabulous place with stunning views. Went as part of Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2023. Spent the day painting the castle and backdrop of the ocean. Romantic mediaeval castle with a fascinating history.Hi Carolyn, thanks for taking the time to leave a review, I'm glad that you enjoyed your visit. The Landscape Artist of the Year shoot was such a great day, a real buzz around the place and I'm glad the weather was great for most of the day! I enjoyed watching the programme, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 15 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled on businessWritten 14 April 2024
- DobbyNashville, Tennessee334 contributionsQuintessential ScotlandStunning! Wow! You’ve got to stop and check this place out. This is the quintessential Scotland castle on the sea. It was a bit rainy on the day we went so we didn’t go to the castle, we just parked in the car park and walked to the grassy edge and took some pictures. It was a quick in and out and ideal for the weather.Hi Michael, thanks for taking the time to leave a review. Great to hear that you enjoyed your visit despite the weather, hopefully we can welcome you into the Castle another time in nicer weather, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 2 May 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 28 April 2024
- cleorocasLargs, United Kingdom14 contributionsLet your imagination flow.............Time was against us to go down to the Castle, but from the top of hillside it was breathtaking ! The pathway to view points were in excellent condition, public toilets and plenty free parking: A little van with coffees etc was doing a good turn. There were plenty people taking the stairs all the way down, was just pleased I got to see this castle on such a beautiful day too...daffodils still out in MayThanks for taking the time to leave a review, glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit to Dunnottar even if you did not make it into the Castle on this occasion, hopefully we can welcome you inside another time, Martin, Castle CustodianWritten 13 May 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 13 May 2024
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5.0
3,386 reviews
Excellent
2,771
Very good
535
Average
63
Poor
12
Terrible
5
mtk67
East Kilbride, UK742 contributions
July 2021
An amazing place to visit- and we were too late to get into the castle! Worth it though just for the view and the cliff top walk. It closes at 4.30 and tickets to enter the castle itself must be purchased in advance. However we still enjoyed the walk and gazing at such wonderful scenery. There is a car park and toilets and a snack bar which looked good. We had a very enjoyable hour here - well worth a visit.
Written 16 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gordon R
Bathgate, UK912 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
This really is a spectacular castle in an absolutely stunning location that is well worth seeking out or even making a detour to see.
Yes a lot of the castle are ruins but for views and atmospheric setting it is hard to think of a better castle anywhere.
Definitely well worth the £7 entrance fee to ensure this castle continues to to be maintained for future generations to enjoy.
Very highly recommended.
Yes a lot of the castle are ruins but for views and atmospheric setting it is hard to think of a better castle anywhere.
Definitely well worth the £7 entrance fee to ensure this castle continues to to be maintained for future generations to enjoy.
Very highly recommended.
Written 23 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Gordon,
Thanks for taking the time to leave us a review and recommending us to others.
Kind regards
Jim
Written 17 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dmhLondon
London, UK307 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
A strenuous but worthwhile visit. This castle though ruined for the most part is sufficiently intact to be able to make out the layout and rooms/halls. One large room has been rebuilt so that the visitor can see how the rest of the complex would have looked. They’ve made a good job of it.
To access the castle on an “island” linked by a spit of land the visitor needs to descend steep steps and therefore ascend on the return. Once across to the island a climb is required into the castle whereupon you purchase the ticket. (£8.50/£9.50 non concession).
To access the castle on an “island” linked by a spit of land the visitor needs to descend steep steps and therefore ascend on the return. Once across to the island a climb is required into the castle whereupon you purchase the ticket. (£8.50/£9.50 non concession).
Written 30 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mags B
East Kilbride, UK800 contributions
July 2021
Thought this looked a bit different with the castle location on the cliffside. Definitely not one for anyone with mobility difficulties as there are a good few steps to get into the castle. £30 for our family of 5 and also bought the tour guide book £5 which I probably wouldn't bother with unless you wanted it for a souvenir as lots of information provided to read as you go round the different areas. Would have liked an audio tour guide like the Peterhead Prison we also visited on our holiday. Fantastic photo opportunities and luckily it was a beautiful day as it would be pretty miserable in the rain. Beautiful views from the castle and walks down to the beach or over the other side past the small waterfall for more photos of this lovely castle.
Written 1 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ItTastesLikeFeet
Edinburgh, UK495 contributions
Aug 2020 • Solo
Beautiful castle (although now mostly ruins) situated right next to the sea. Have to book online for tickets for entry to the castle due to COVID but the walks in the area are all free to explore. Paths can get muddy and there is loose gravel so wear appropriate walking shoes. Due to the location it can get cold because of the sea wind, so come prepared. Toilets only available inside the castle but the small town of Stonehaven is close by. Small food truck located at the car park selling hot drinks, ice cream and food.
Written 29 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kay
Greater London, UK158 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
Highly recommend to visit this castle in a stunning, unique setting.
We were so lucky that the sun came out and blue sky appeared just when we arrived.
The car park and cafe are very conveniently located. There is a useful multilingual information board at the path leading to the castle. We received a very basic map when we paid the entrance fee which was not that useful as there was one main path and it was unlikely that you could get lost. The information boards were displayed at each ruin and in the only restored room (Drawing room). Some of the ruins had wonderful views over the coast and across the sea with small fishing boats, and we were lucky to see some seals.
I’m not sure if young people were given a separate leaflet with a fun challenge or similar but if they didn’t, I think the displays were not engaging for children which is a shame as there seemed to be a lot of young visitors.
There are some steep steps and slippery cobbles, so supportive footwork is sensible.
We enjoyed some more time walking along the cliffs like many other people - families, couples, dog walkers. There’s also a smallish beach where people spent time relaxing. Plenty of benches where you can rest and enjoy the views.
We were so lucky that the sun came out and blue sky appeared just when we arrived.
The car park and cafe are very conveniently located. There is a useful multilingual information board at the path leading to the castle. We received a very basic map when we paid the entrance fee which was not that useful as there was one main path and it was unlikely that you could get lost. The information boards were displayed at each ruin and in the only restored room (Drawing room). Some of the ruins had wonderful views over the coast and across the sea with small fishing boats, and we were lucky to see some seals.
I’m not sure if young people were given a separate leaflet with a fun challenge or similar but if they didn’t, I think the displays were not engaging for children which is a shame as there seemed to be a lot of young visitors.
There are some steep steps and slippery cobbles, so supportive footwork is sensible.
We enjoyed some more time walking along the cliffs like many other people - families, couples, dog walkers. There’s also a smallish beach where people spent time relaxing. Plenty of benches where you can rest and enjoy the views.
Written 30 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, thanks for taking the time to leave a review, glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit. We do hand out a sheet for kids which has some items to look for around the Castle to encourage exploration and we always encourage visitors to wear footwear that suits the conditions, Martin, Castle Custodian
Written 12 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Greg B
Aberdeen, UK71 contributions
June 2022 • Family
I went to visit the castle this afternoon and upon my arrival I noticed the car park was full. So in attempted to find a suitable parking space I used the large car park with the toilets to gather my thoughts and look for a safe parking place. However, before I could even stop the car a very rude man was waving his arms telling me to get out despite this area being 100% empty, not a single vehicle parked here. Just me, the wife and kids in the back and my relatives from overseas following close behind in another car. so you can understand why I wanted a SAFE parking space rather than abandoning the cars at the side of a 60mph speed zone with young children. Which I would then need to walk along to get to the castle.
The behaviours and actions of this human angered me so much I left before he got near my car as quite frankly people like him don’t deserve my time or attention. How many other families has he turned away as he’s just turned away 8 people from
1 family!! Think of the Loss of income for both the castle at the food establishment!
This man needs to have a little consideration for people unfamiliar with the area or given the sack. Thankfully I am relatively local to area and go visit anytime but what an embarrassment for my relatives. Disgusted.
The behaviours and actions of this human angered me so much I left before he got near my car as quite frankly people like him don’t deserve my time or attention. How many other families has he turned away as he’s just turned away 8 people from
1 family!! Think of the Loss of income for both the castle at the food establishment!
This man needs to have a little consideration for people unfamiliar with the area or given the sack. Thankfully I am relatively local to area and go visit anytime but what an embarrassment for my relatives. Disgusted.
Written 7 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a review.
Unfortunately, during very busy periods, the car park may be full and we cannot allow further vehicles to enter as it can quickly become an unmanageable situation for the coach park attendant who has multiple vehicle types and allocated areas to try and keep on top of.
The coach parking area, which is where the toilet is located, requires to remain free of cars to allow it to be properly managed for coaches which are pre-booked as well as those which may arrive on an unplanned basis. This area has cones in place at the top of the parking bays to keep the spaces closed off and has signage to indicate that is not for cars. It may be the case that the area is empty at times but it is being managed as is necessary for the needs of the business.
It is not helpful for the staff when car drivers ignore directions, parking restriction measures and 'No Cars' signs.
We are sorry if our business requirements did not meet with your personal preferences.
Written 12 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mel H
Kirknewton, UK16 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
Glad I stopped off to see this place on my way back to. Edinburgh from a work trip. It is very dramatic perched on the wee outcrop down and then up all the stairs. People with mobility issues would struggle to reach this unless a boat is provided from Stonehaven.
Written 26 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CathYorkshire
Yorkshire384 contributions
Sept 2020
I have seen very many UK castles but the location of this one was stunning - for that reason alone it warrants five stars. The steep access and floor surfaces would make it very difficult for anyone with mobility problems and note that booking is all on line and you must arrive within a 45 minute booking ' window'. The only issue we had was arriving at around our slot time to find the car park full - with people from the previous slot time sat in their cars eating their sandwiches oblivious to the need to free up space for new arrivals. Anyway we parked in the coach only area ( since I guess there will be no coaches for the foreseeable future perhaps the owners could make it a proper car park overflow) . The walk from Stonehaven is also recommended ( but we did not have time for this route). Interpretation within the site is somewhat limited and due to covid no guidebooks are on sale currently. From the ruins keep a look out for passing pods of porpoises and whales ( we saw a large whale break the surface twice but could not identify the species)
Written 15 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LoveTravel305146
Ventura, CA40 contributions
July 2022
This castle was so fascinating. There are information posts all along the castle. The kids were also given a guide to try and find objects around the castle to keep them engaged. It worked! The kids had as much fun as us parents. There was so much to explore and the views are breathtaking... the walk to the castle was also breathtaking, but in a different way. ;) ha. The walk is a bit of a workout, but very worth it. We parked in a lot that is situated right next to the start of the castle. There is also a little cafe stand located near the parking lot that was very popular.
Next to the castle is walk way to a rocky beach cove, where we spent some time after our trek through the Dunnottar Castle. There were a few families there enjoying the warm, sunny day.
Like many others, we highly recommend this castle and would actually go again.
Next to the castle is walk way to a rocky beach cove, where we spent some time after our trek through the Dunnottar Castle. There were a few families there enjoying the warm, sunny day.
Like many others, we highly recommend this castle and would actually go again.
Written 26 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Buongiorno, è possibile fare la passeggiata dalla stazione di Stonehenge al castello di Dunnotar con il passeggino? Dato che poi per l'ingresso al castello leggo di molti gradini sapete se esiste la possibilitá di lasciarlo in deposito all'ingresso?
Grazie
Written 12 January 2024
Non credo che si possa arrivare in cima con il passeggino, almeno una parte va' fatta con il passeggino chiuso
Written 17 March 2024
Sorry, don't know the answer to this.
Written 14 February 2022
Does the castle have a gift shop yet ?
Written 12 September 2021
I didn’t spot one I’m afraid. My visit was during covid restrictions. There are gift shops in nearby Stonehaven though, I’m sure they’ll have castle related gifts.
Written 13 September 2021
Does the castle have a gift shop yet ?
Written 12 September 2021
No, there is no gift shop, just a ticket office with guidebooks available for purchase when you enter. There's also a refreshments hut next to the car park where you can get some food or a hot drink.
Written 20 September 2021
Hi, are there any toilets available in pandemic restrictions?
Written 16 April 2021
Looking for a town to stay in, in between Inverness and Dunnottar Castle (we plan on visiting Dunnottar Castle in the morning)- any suggestions would be greatly appreciative.
Written 29 January 2020
Dunnottar Castle
Stonehaven, United Kingdom
Banff is a bit of a trek from the Castle, 62 miles and around an hour and a half drive Your best bet will be to stay in Stonehaven. It's a lovely little seaside town and you can walk to the Castle from there. search google for stunningstonehaven for details.
Jim
Written 17 February 2020
É aberto o ano todo? ou existe alguma época em que não é possível visita-lo?
Written 9 July 2019
Dunnottar Castle is tot 1 oktober dagelijks geopend van 9.00 uur - 17.30 uur.
Van 1 oktober tot 1 april is de Castle open vanaf 10.00 uur. De sluitingstijden liggen dan tussen 15.30 uur en 16.00 uur.
Als het weer erg slecht is dan is de Castle gesloten.
Written 10 July 2019
Where do you pay, how close can you get to the castle, without paying. I am looking to photograph it very early morning so it wouldn't be "open" anyway. Thanks
Written 23 November 2018
Most of the stunning shots are taken from the cliff across from the castle, there is a free car park and a short path this stunning views along the way. The money shot for me was mid way to the cliff where you are in a valley almost, I took a few photos from the little wooden bridge that joins the two cliffs and the result was stunning.
Written 13 January 2019
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