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Cawdor Castle

Medieval castle inextricably linked with Macbeth.

Nairn, Nairnshire, IV12 5RD

Cawdor Castle

Experience this house

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Free admission to members of Historic Houses when you show a valid membership card.
Free admission to members of Historic Houses when you show a valid membership card.
Facilities
  • Accessible loos
  • Accessible parking
  • Cafe / restaurant
  • Easily accessible without car
  • Free parking
  • Parkland / open spaces
  • Picnic area
  • Shop
for the latest information.
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair ramps/routes
  • Accessible parking
  • Guide dogs welcome
  • Accessible toilets
Does our information need updating?
Let us know here

Cawdor Castle dates from the late 14th-century, having been built as a private fortress by the Thanes of Cawdor, with the ancient medieval tower built around the legendary holly tree – wherever you look, Cawdor Castle is steeped in intrigue and history.

Later additions, mainly from the 17th-century, were all built in a Scottish style with slated roofs over walls and crow-stepped gables of local stone. This style gives Cawdor a strong sense of unity, and the massive, severe exterior belies an intimate interior that gives the place a surprisingly personal, friendly atmosphere.

The imposing, rectangular tower-house consisted of four storeys and a garret with one entrance to the outside world set at upper first floor level; the perfect design to keep out unwelcome visitors.

This ancient castle, home to the Cawdor family to this day, has evolved over 600 years and has been lovingly filled with beautiful furniture, fine portraits, intriguing objects and amazing tapestries.

Opening Times

Please note: The information on the Historic Houses website is advisory, but please always check the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling.

View website

Open daily from 27 April to 6 October: 10am to 5.00pm (last entry 5pm).

Castle: 10am – 5pm (last entry at 3pm)

Gardens and Grounds: 10am-5.00pm (last entry 5pm)

Highland Shop & Gift Shop: 10am–5pm

Courtyard Café: 10am–5pm (hot food served until 4pm)

Admission

Historic Houses members can visit for free by presenting a valid membership at the ticket desk on arrival.

Tickets may be, but do not have to be, pre-booked; please any pre-booking will incur a charge.

Find out more about pre-booking experiences at Cawdor here.

Castle admission:

  • Adult: £15.50
  • Concession: £14.00
  • Child: £8.50 (aged 5-15 yrs)
  • Family: £38 (2 adults and up to 5 children 5-15 yrs).
  • Gardens Only: £9
Group Visits

Private group tours of the Castle and/or Gardens can be arranged, by appointment, when open and during the closed season.

Please contact the office on 01667 404401 or email info@cawdorcastle.com for more information.

Educational Visits

We welcome schools and educational visits and can provide a brief introduction to the castle and its history from one of our Castle Guides.

for the latest information.
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair ramps/routes
  • Accessible parking
  • Guide dogs welcome
  • Accessible toilets
Does our information need updating?
Let us know here

Getting here

Nairn, Nairnshire, IV12 5RD

The main visitor entrance is at ///binders.beak.desktopWhat does this mean?

A short distance from the A9 at Inverness, Cawdor Castle can be found off the A96.  Follow the B9090 to Cawdor Village where signs will lead you to the castle.

The castle can also be reached by public transport to Nairn where a taxi would be required.

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Cawdor Castle thorn/holly tree

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