poi · GB

Dunnottar Castle

historynatureadventure

Recommended stay: 1 day

Getting around: Just south of Stonehaven, about 15 miles south of Aberdeen; a car or the train/bus to Stonehaven followed by a walk is the usual approach. There's no vehicle access to the castle itself — expect a walk down and back up steep paths.

Hours: Generally open daily with seasonal hour changes, and closed on some days in winter; check current hours and any weather-related closures before visiting, as the cliff paths can close in high winds.

Dunnottar is the ruined castle that ends up on half the postcards of Scotland's northeast coast, and for good reason: it sits on a near-island of rock jutting into the North Sea, connected to the mainland by a narrow neck of land, with cliffs dropping straight to the water on almost every side. The site has been fortified since the early Middle Ages, but most of what survives dates from the 15th to 17th centuries, including the years when the Scottish Crown Jewels were famously smuggled out and hidden here during Cromwell's siege in 1651-52 rather than let them fall to Parliamentary forces.

What makes a visit worthwhile isn't just the history but the sheer drama of the setting — walking down from the clifftop car park and up the far side onto the ruins gives constantly changing views of the sea stacks and cliffs, and the ruins themselves (chapel, keep, priest's house, drawing room) are extensive enough to wander for a good hour. It's one of the most photographed castles in Scotland and lives up to the reputation.

Dunnottar Castle FAQs

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, there's typically an admission charge; check current prices before visiting.

How difficult is the walk to the castle?

There's a steep path down from the car park and a similarly steep climb up to the castle itself, with steps in places — comfortable footwear is worth it.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?

Not easily — the terrain involves steep, uneven paths and steps, making full wheelchair access impractical.

What's the connection to the Crown Jewels?

The Scottish Crown Jewels (the Honours of Scotland) were hidden at Dunnottar during a siege by Cromwell's forces in 1651-52 and smuggled out before the castle fell.

Is it near Stonehaven?

Yes, it's just south of the town, easily combined with a visit there.

Your travel graph

Ready to plan Dunnottar Castle?Planning a trip soon? Add it to build an itinerary.