Dunnottar Castle

Stonehaven

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Book Dunnottar Castle tickets and explore one of Scotland’s most dramatic castle ruins

Perched high above the North Sea on a rocky headland near Stonehaven, Dunnottar Castle is one of Scotland’s most striking heritage attractions.

Surrounded by cliffs, coastal views and centuries of Scottish history, this ruined medieval fortress is the kind of place that makes you stop mid-walk and say: yep, this is why people visit Scotland.

  • Explore dramatic cliff-top castle ruins overlooking the North Sea
  • Discover a fortress with over 1,000 years of Scottish history
  • Walk through a site linked to William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots and the Honours of Scotland
  • Enjoy one of Aberdeenshire’s most iconic coastal views
  • Visit by car, bike, train or on foot from nearby Stonehaven
  • Make the most of on-site parking, picnic seating and refreshments near the car park

Dunnottar Castle sits around 1.6 miles south of Stonehaven on the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, making it a brilliant day out for history lovers, photographers, families, walkers and anyone who likes their castle views with a side of sea spray.

Step into the stories of Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle has played a powerful role in Scotland’s past. For over 1,000 years, this rugged fortress has watched over the coastline and held some of the country’s most dramatic stories within its walls.

The castle is famous for its role in protecting the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish Crown Jewels, from Oliver Cromwell’s army in the 1650s. It has also welcomed major historical figures including William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots, giving visitors a real sense of the people, power and conflict that shaped Scotland’s history.

As you explore the ruins, you’ll find a mixture of stone buildings, open-air spaces, uneven paths, steps and clifftop views. It’s atmospheric, windswept and wonderfully dramatic, with plenty of places to pause, look out to sea and take in the setting.

Book your Dunnottar Castle tickets today and get ready to explore one of Scotland’s most unforgettable clifftop castles.

Location

Dunnottar Castle

Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail,
Stonehaven,
Aberdeenshire,
AB39 2TL
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How to find us

Dunnottar Castle is located just off the A92 Stonehaven/Montrose road, around 1.6 miles south of Stonehaven and around 20 miles from Aberdeen International Airport.

Visitors can reach Dunnottar Castle by car, bicycle, train, bus or on foot.

  • By car: Use postcode AB39 2TL for Sat Nav
  • On foot: Walk from Stonehaven along the coastal path from the harbour area, passing the war memorial and following the clifftop route towards the Castle
  • By bike: Bike racks are available next to the coach park
  • By bus: The X7 and 107 from Aberdeen stop by the A92, a short walk from the Castle car park
  • By train: The nearest train station is Stonehaven
  • By taxi: Local taxi services operate in the Stonehaven area, with wheelchair-accessible vehicles available from some providers

Sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing are recommended, especially when walking from Stonehaven, as the coastal path can be rugged, muddy and exposed to changing weather.

Facilities
  • Free parking
  • Toilets
  • Picnic area
  • Benches
More Info
Is Dunnottar Castle wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the positioning of the Castle also means that wheelchair access is not possible.

Is there food and drink at Dunnottar Castle?

C&L Catering serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and hot food next to the car park outside the castle. Refreshments are not available to purchase inside Dunnottar Castle itself.

What should I wear to Dunnottar Castle?

Visitors should wear robust footwear when visiting Dunnottar Castle. The site has many steps, uneven ground, cobbles, earth and grass surfaces, and smooth-soled shoes, high heels and flip flops are not suitable.

Are dogs allowed at Dunnottar Castle?

Yes, Dunnottar Castle is dog-friendly, but please ensure they are kept on a short lead at all times. 

Are these the cheapest tickets for Dunnottar Castle?

Yes, we guarantee price match or better. If you can find them cheaper, we want to match it so please get in touch here.

Choose your adventure

Dunnottar Castle Tickets

Step inside a legendary Scottish fortress with Dunnottar Castle Day Tickets and discover dramatic ruins perched above the North Sea.

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From
£13.50
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