Urquhart Castle
A majestic ruined castle on the shores of Loch Ness, steeped in centuries of Scottish history and legend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Urquhart Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic ruined castle on the shores of Loch Ness, steeped in centuries of Scottish history and legend.
"This was the most cool thing I have done in Scotland yet! I loved the castle and the history of it is really cool to learn about!"
Audio Guide is a Must
Enhance your visit with the free audio guide available on your mobile. It's highly informative and brings the history to life. :iphone:
Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and potentially avoid queues by purchasing tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall Ruins
Central Courtyard
Imagine medieval feasts and gatherings in the remains of this grand hall, a testament to the castle's past importance.
The Tower House
North End
This imposing 16th-century tower offers panoramic views of Loch Ness and the surrounding Highlands.
Loch Ness Shoreline
Castle Base
Walk along the edge of the famous Loch Ness, soaking in the atmosphere and keeping an eye out for Nessie!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Loch Ness Monster Spotting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Audio Guide is a Must
Enhance your visit with the free audio guide available on your mobile. It's highly informative and brings the history to life. :iphone:
Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and potentially avoid queues by purchasing tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring ruins and uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Nessie!
Don't forget to scan the waters of Loch Ness for a glimpse of the legendary monster! +1 :eyes:
Tips
from all over the internet
Audio Guide is a Must
Enhance your visit with the free audio guide available on your mobile. It's highly informative and brings the history to life. :iphone:
Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and potentially avoid queues by purchasing tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring ruins and uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Nessie!
Don't forget to scan the waters of Loch Ness for a glimpse of the legendary monster! +1 :eyes:
Visit the Cafe
Enjoy a bite to eat or a coffee at the castle's cafe, with some recommending the cinnamon buns. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Urquhart Castle for its fascinating history, stunning location on Loch Ness, and well-presented ruins. The audio guide and visitor center are highlighted as particularly informative. Some note the importance of booking tickets in advance to avoid parking issues and queues.
"Great to learn about the history of the castle. We used the audio guide, which was very good and informative.
We ate at the restaurant before starting the tour. I must say it was very good, I also loved the cinnamon bun!
The day we were there, was also a 'meet the author' day where you could buy a book and have it signed. Pretty amazing.
I reconmend a visit, it was fascinating for me."
Benjamin De Keyzer
"It's a unique place with a long history. The location is just perfect to see a historical Loch Ness site and also touch the lake. Amazing that the castle was practically abandoned 400 years ago. Worth to watch the 8 mins movie and use the free audio guide on your mobile."
Frank Toth
"If you like history and ruins this is a place for you. I do recommend that you buy your tickets on line before you go. The parking lot is for the ticket holders. We did not buy our tickets beforehand so, we were not allowed to use the parking lot. We had to turn around and park in another lot. The walk back to the castle and entrance took us around 25 minutes up a hill. The surrounding landscape scenery is pretty. It has a very nice cafe, gift shop and restroom. We bought our tickets at the gate on a weekday. We did not have to stand in any lines. There is a paved walkway for those who need assisted walking devices, and stairs up to the castle walls. We were there for about an hour walking around through the grounds and gift shop. Ask the person at the ticket office how to pronounce the castle name correctly. It is pronounced differently than the way it is spelled."
Lisa B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Urquhart Castle is easily accessible from Inverness. You can drive, which takes about 30 minutes, or take a bus. Several tour operators offer day trips from Inverness that include Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness cruises.
Yes, there is a parking lot available for ticket holders. If you haven't purchased tickets in advance, you may need to park in an alternative lot and walk to the castle.
Yes, local buses run from Inverness to Drumnadrochit, the village near Urquhart Castle. From Drumnadrochit, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the castle.
The address for Urquhart Castle is Drumnadrochit, Inverness IV63 6XJ, Scotland.
Yes, many Loch Ness boat tours, including those from Jacobite Cruises, stop at or offer views of Urquhart Castle. This provides a unique perspective from the water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's best to check the official Historic Scotland website for the most up-to-date information on Urquhart Castle ticket prices and any potential discounts. Booking online is recommended.
Urquhart Castle typically has seasonal opening hours. It's advisable to check the official Historic Scotland website for the current Urquhart Castle opening hours before your visit.
While you can often buy tickets at the gate, it's highly recommended to book your Urquhart Castle tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and potentially avoid queues, especially during busy periods.
Booking Urquhart Castle tickets online can sometimes offer a small discount or ensure your entry during peak times. Always check the official booking portal for current offers.
During busy periods, it's possible that timed entry slots may be implemented. Booking your Urquhart Castle tickets online will clarify any specific time slot requirements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the ruins, enjoying the views, and visiting the visitor center.
There is a paved walkway for those needing assisted walking devices, and stairs lead up to the castle walls. The visitor center and cafe are also accessible.
You can explore the ruins of the Great Hall, the Tower House, and other structures, learning about its long and turbulent history. The visitor center provides context.
Yes, there is a visitor center that offers an introduction to the castle's history, including an 8-minute film, and houses a cafe and gift shop.
Absolutely! Urquhart Castle offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially with the backdrop of Loch Ness. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Urquhart Castle has a cafe that serves refreshments, snacks, and light meals. Some visitors highly recommend their cinnamon buns.
The village of Drumnadrochit, near Urquhart Castle, offers several dining options, including pubs and restaurants.
While there isn't a designated picnic area within the castle ruins, you can enjoy a picnic with views of Loch Ness in the surrounding areas. Check with staff about specific rules.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the castle ramparts overlooking Loch Ness, the entrance gate, and the Tower House. The surrounding shoreline also offers great perspectives.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Urquhart Castle to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest regulations before flying.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover. The cafe offers kid-friendly snacks, and the open spaces around the castle allow for some freedom to explore. Booking tickets online can save time, which is always a plus with children.
🏰 History Buffs
+1 The free audio guide is invaluable for understanding the castle's complex past, from its early settlements to its eventual destruction. Take your time to explore the different sections of the ruins, from the remains of the Great Hall to the formidable Tower House. The visitor center offers further context and exhibits that delve deeper into the castle's heritage.
📸 Photographers
+1 The best light for capturing the castle's atmosphere is during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. Consider visiting on a weekday to minimize crowds and allow for more unhurried shots. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones, combined with the vastness of the loch, creates truly memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The first stone castle was built around the 1230s by the Durward family. It played a significant role during the Wars of Scottish Independence, changing hands multiple times between Scottish and English forces. +1 The castle was eventually slighted (deliberately damaged to prevent its use) in 1692, leading to its current ruined state. Exploring the ruins allows you to walk through centuries of Scottish history, from its early beginnings to its strategic importance in medieval conflicts. The visitor center provides an excellent overview, and the audio guide brings the stories of its inhabitants to life.
The Legend of Loch Ness
Many visitors come with the hope of a sighting, and the castle's location provides a perfect vantage point for scanning the loch. Even if Nessie remains elusive, the stunning natural beauty of Loch Ness and the dramatic setting of Urquhart Castle make for an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the Ruins
Despite being a ruin, the castle is well-maintained, with clear pathways and informative signage. The visitor center offers context and an 8-minute film that helps piece together the castle's former glory.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit