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.
Opening Times for Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle is open to visitors all year round, with seasonal variations in opening hours:
- 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 specified at the foot of the page. Last entry is one hour before closing time.
Closure Dates: The Castle is closed on the 25th and 26th of December, as well as the 1st and 2nd of January annually. Additional planned closure dates may be announced.
Note: The Castle may close at short notice due to bad weather conditions for safety reasons.
Visitor Information
Dunnottar Castle is located on a rocky outcrop along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, 1.6 miles south of Stonehaven and 20 miles from Aberdeen International Airport. It is a historic site with dramatic cliff-top ruins and a rich history.
Access to the Castle involves navigating uneven paths and numerous steps, making it challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Wheelchair access is not possible. Complimentary tickets are available for personal assistants accompanying visitors with disabilities.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short lead. Visitors are advised to wear robust footwear due to uneven ground and to supervise children at all times.
Parking is available for various vehicles, and refreshments can be purchased from the on-site catering van. Smoking and alcohol consumption are not permitted within the Castle grounds.
For safety, visitors must adhere to designated boundaries and obey all warning signs. The Castle provides first aid facilities and trained staff on-site.
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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