Dramatic ruined castle high above the North Sea.
Dunnottar, Stonehaven, Kincardineshire, AB39 2TL
Facilities
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Cafe / restaurant
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Easily accessible without car
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Free parking
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Pet friendly
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Picnic area
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible parking
- Access statement available
Dunnottar Castle is a dramatic and evocative ruined cliff top fortress which was the home 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 lovers dream and an iconic tourist destination for visitors the world over.
Visit Dunnottar Castle for your own unforgettable experience and discover the importance of Dunnottar – an impregnable fortress that holds many rich secrets of Scotland’s colourful past.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Dunnottar Castle is a historic and scenic attraction located on the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, 1.6 miles south of Stonehaven and 20 miles from Aberdeen International Airport. It is perched on a 160-foot rock surrounded by the North Sea, offering dramatic views and a rich history.
Opening Times
The Castle is open all year round, weather permitting. In the event of bad weather, the Castle may close at short notice for safety reasons. Visitors are advised to check the Met Office website for weather conditions in the Stonehaven area before visiting.
- Summer Season (1st April - 30th September): Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00, with the last entry at 17:00.
- Winter Season (1st October - 31st March): Open daily from 10:00. Closing times vary and are detailed at the foot of the page. Last entry is one hour before closing time.
- Closure Dates: The Castle is closed on 25th & 26th December and 1st & 2nd January annually. Additional planned closure dates are listed at the foot of the page.
Group Visits
Group bookings are available for parties of 20 or more. A group discount rate applies, and free entry is provided for Blue Badge and STGA guides with credentials. Parking for coaches is free for pre-booked groups paying to enter the Castle. A fee of £50 per vehicle applies to non-visiting photography or sightseeing groups. Toilet facilities are available during the high season (1st April to mid-September).
Facilities
Onsite facilities include parking for various vehicles, picnic seating, and refreshments from the C&L Catering Van. Plans for a Visitor Centre with a café and shop are underway.
Dunnottar Castle is a must-see destination, offering a unique blend of history, stunning views, and cultural significance.
Historic Houses members visit for free (on display of membership card).
Adult (ages 16+): £10.50
Child (age 5-15): £4.50
Child (age 0-4): free
Concession (age 65+ & students with valid photo ID): £9.50
Family (up to 2 adults and 2 children): £27.00
Family (1 adult and 2 children): £17.00
Adult Annual Pass – £25.00
Child Annual Pass – £12.50
Admission prices are subject to change.
We are able to offer free entry for local schools.
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible parking
- Access statement available
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