Perched atop steep cliffs that plunge 50 m (160 ft) down to the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle is what's left of the strategically located home of one of Scotland's noble families. The ruins spread across a 3.5 acre (1.4 hectare) plot on the cliff’s edge. One of the largest buildings is the tower house, which stood 15 m (49 ft) when at its full height. It had a great hall and upstairs bedrooms for the castle's lord. Wear good walking shoes to the site because the parking lot is located at the base of an 800 m (2,600 ft) footpath that leads up to the castle. Hours change seasonally so please check website for all up-to-date information. Make Dunnottar Castle a centerpiece of your Stonehaven vacation itinerary, and find what else is worth visiting using our Stonehaven travel route planning app.
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Tours to Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle reviews
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We have visited before & ancient castles don't really change in 10 years but it was still well worth a return visit. There is a good sized car park now but the steps down are still hard work, thank...
We have visited before & ancient castles don't really change in 10 years but it was still well worth a return visit. There is a good sized car park now but the steps down are still hard work, thank... more »
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If you are wondering, “Should I go?” The answer is absolutely, yes. It is popular for a reason - stunning location and great history. It is also remarkably in tact. We loved every minute - the...
If you are wondering, “Should I go?” The answer is absolutely, yes. It is popular for a reason - stunning location and great history. It is also remarkably in tact. We loved every minute - the... more »
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I think we won LOTTO when we rocked up to Dunnortar Castle, just an absolute glorious day with brilliant sunny weather and no rain, hardly a cloud afforded spectacular views over the castle and out...
I think we won LOTTO when we rocked up to Dunnortar Castle, just an absolute glorious day with brilliant sunny weather and no rain, hardly a cloud afforded spectacular views over the castle and out... more »
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A very nice place to visit, the castle and the coast provide spectacular views, do bring a windbreaker as gusts of wind can be rather intimidating. The castle itself has an entrance fee but the views are free from afar. The coastal track is very nice and one can walk to the closest war monument very easily for a more panoramic view of close by town of Stonehaven.
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If it's castles you're after then this should tick all the boxes.
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Loved it! I very much enjoyed the castle grounds and getting a glimpse of the history and castle life. I think it was absolutely worth getting the tickets. The two young boys, aged 14 and 8, had a great time running around and exploring all the rooms and buildings!! We even managed to spot some dolphins jumping in the surrounding water!
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Stunning location, and really interesting historic site. It’s the kind of place where it helps if you have an interest in history and will take the time to really imagine yourself in the place as it once was (much of it is now a ruin), but it is well worth visiting - the views alone are worth the price of admission!
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Lovely afternoon out, amazing scenery surrounded by coves. Would recommend if it's a hot day. Not suitable for disabled though
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