Urquhart Castle, Inverness
Castle near Inverness
Urquhart Castle is one of the most impressive and atmospheric ruins in the Scottish Highlands, perched on a rocky headland overlooking the deep waters of Loch Ness. Its location is spectacular, drawing visitors to explore centuries of history against one of the most photographed backdrops in Scotland. Once a mighty fortress guarding the Great Glen, the castle is now one of the top attractions in Loch Ness, known for its sweeping views, turbulent past, and romantic setting.
The ruins standing today date from the 13th to 16th centuries, though the site was used long before that as an early medieval stronghold. From clan battles to royal power struggles, Urquhart Castle has witnessed many of the defining moments in Highland history.
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History and Significance of Urquhart Castle
Founded in the 13th century, Urquhart Castle quickly became a key fortress in the Wars of Scottish Independence. In the early 14th century, it changed hands multiple times between English and Scottish forces. Later, as a royal castle, it was repeatedly raided by the MacDonald Earls of Ross-powerful lords who coveted control of the Great Glen.
In 1509, the crown granted the castle to Clan Grant, whose tenure marked both rebuilding and further conflict with the MacDonalds. Despite these struggles, the castle remained strategically important until the mid-17th century, when it was largely abandoned.
The final blow came in 1692, when government forces deliberately blew up sections of the castle to prevent its use by Jacobite rebels. Left in ruins, the castle slowly decayed until the 20th century, when it was placed in state care, restored for safety, and opened to the public. Today, it is one of the most visited historic sites in Scotland, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Things to See and Do in Urquhart Castle
The sprawling site covers two main enclosures: the Nether Bailey and the Upper Bailey. The Nether Bailey, closest to Loch Ness, contains the most intact remains, including the gatehouse and the magnificent Grant Tower. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the loch, especially striking in early morning or at sunset.
The Upper Bailey sits on higher ground and preserves the scant remains of earlier medieval buildings. Despite being less complete, it offers some of the most dramatic angles of the castle and loch, perfect for photography.
As you explore the site, you’ll encounter the remains of the great hall, kitchens, storage areas, and defensive walls. Information boards bring the history to life, helping visitors imagine the bustling castle that once stood here.
The visitor centre offers exhibits, a short film, a café, and a well-stocked shop with local crafts and books. The setting, combined with the rich history, makes Urquhart Castle a memorable stop for anyone travelling through the Highlands.
How to Get to Urquhart Castle
Inverness Airport is the closest airport, located around 27 miles northeast of the castle. It connects to major UK cities and selected European routes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Inverness on Booking.com.
Inverness Railway Station offers rail services from Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Aberdeen. From the station, buses and taxis travel along the A82 to Drumnadrochit and Urquhart Castle. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Travelling by car is straightforward: Urquhart Castle sits directly on the A82, 21 kilometres (13 miles) southwest of Inverness and just 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) east of Drumnadrochit. A large onsite car park makes it easy to visit.
Practical Tips on Visiting Urquhart Castle
- Suggested tips: Visit early or late in the day to enjoy quieter conditions and atmospheric light.
- Best time to visit: Spring to autumn for mild weather and clear views.
- Entrance fee: adult/child £9/5.40
- Opening hours: 9.30am-8pm Jun-Aug, to 6pm Apr, May & Sep, to 5pm Oct, to 4.30pm Nov-Mar
- Official website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/urquhart-castle/
- How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours exploring the ruins and visitor centre.
- Accessibility: Paths vary in steepness; some uneven sections around the ruins.
- Facilities: Visitor centre, café, shop, restrooms, and outdoor seating.
- Photography tip: Capture the Grant Tower from across the bay for a classic Loch Ness panorama.
- Guided tours: Informational displays and audio guides help bring the castle’s story to life.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants in Drumnadrochit and along the A82.
Where to Stay close to Urquhart Castle
For convenient access, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel offers comfortable rooms near the loch. For a boutique experience with sweeping views, Loch Ness Country House Hotel provides Highland charm just a short drive away. Travellers seeking lakeside tranquillity can choose The Loch Ness Inn, a cosy base for exploring the region.
Is Urquhart Castle Worth Visiting?
Absolutely-Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland's most captivating ruins, combining raw Highland beauty with powerful history. Its dramatic setting, rich story, and sweeping views make it one of the best places to see in Loch Ness. Whether you come for legends, landscapes, or medieval intrigue, the castle leaves a lasting impression.
What Other Travellers Say...
Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit sits as a large ruined fortress overlooking Loch Ness, with a visitor centre and cafe; visitors praise the dramatic lakeside views, well-preserved ruins and informative short film or audio guide that make a self-guided walk engaging, note parking and ticket booking ease, and mention a gift shop, occasional author events and family-friendly touches like kids' activity stickers.
FAQs for Visiting Urquhart Castle
Nearby Attractions to Urquhart Castle
- Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition: A popular museum exploring the region’s natural and legendary heritage.
- Falls of Foyers: A dramatic waterfall on the eastern shore of Loch Ness.
- Corrimony Chambered Cairn: A Neolithic burial cairn near Glen Urquhart.
- Glen Affric: One of Scotland’s most beautiful glens with ancient Caledonian pine forest.
- Inverness Museum & Art Gallery: Exhibitions on local history, art, and Highland culture.
The Urquhart Castle appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Inverness!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
9.30am-8pm Jun-Aug, to 6pm Apr, May & Sep, to 5pm Oct, to 4.30pm Nov-Mar
adult/child £9/5.40
Nearby Attractions
- Beauly Priory (17.9) km
Priory - Ness Islands (20.1) km
Island and Walk - Inverness Cathedral (21.0) km
Cathedral - Inverness Castle (21.3) km
Castle - Culloden Battlefield (26.9) km
Historic Site and Museum - Tollie Red Kites RSPB Visitor Centre (27.7) km
Nature Reserve - Dingwall (30.2) km
Town - Rogie Falls (31.0) km
Walk and Waterfalls - Fortrose Cathedral (34.1) km
Cathedral - Chanonry Point (34.7) km
Viewing Point
