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Dramatic ruined castle high above the North Sea.

Dunnottar, Stonehaven, Kincardineshire, AB39 2TL

Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven, Scotland

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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
  • Cafe / restaurant
  • Easily accessible without car
  • Free parking
  • Pet friendly
  • Picnic area
Accessibility
  • Guide dogs welcome
  • Accessible parking
  • Access statement available
Does our information need updating?
Let us know here

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.

 

Opening Times

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.

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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. Visitors are advised to check weather conditions before planning their visit.

Additional Information

Dunnottar Castle is a historic site located on a rocky outcrop along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, near Stonehaven. It offers a unique experience with its dramatic location and rich history. Visitors should be aware of access limitations due to the Castle's isolated position and uneven terrain.

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short lead. Visitors are encouraged to wear suitable footwear and supervise children at all times.

Admission

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.

Educational Visits

We are able to offer free entry for local schools.

Accessibility
  • Guide dogs welcome
  • Accessible parking
  • Access statement available
Does our information need updating?
Let us know here

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Dunnottar Castle is a historic fort in Stonehaven

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