Urquhart Castle (Drumnadrochit) - Visitor Information & Reviews

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Urquhart Castle and its collection

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Urquhart Castle, a ruined castle, is situated on the banks of Loch Ness, near the village of Drumnadrochit in the Highlands. The castle is easily accessible as it is located on the A82, just 21 km from Inverness and 2 km from Drumnadrochit. This makes it a convenient destination for tourists visiting the area.

Historical Significance of Urquhart Castle

The ruins of Urquhart Castle that visitors see today date back to the 13th to 16th centuries. The castle was built on a pre-existing fortification, adding to its historical significance. It played a significant role in the Scottish Wars of Independence in the 14th century, making it a site of great historical interest.

Urquhart Castle: From Ruin to Tourist Attraction

Urquhart Castle was partially destroyed in 1692 to prevent it from being used by Jacobite forces. It then fell into ruin and remained so until the 20th century when it was opened to the public. Today, it is one of the most visited castles in Scotland, attracting tourists with its rich history and stunning views.

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Visitor information Urquhart Castle

Opening hours

Apr to Aug: Daily, 9.30am to 8pm (last entry 7pm)
Sept: Daily, 9.30am to 6pm (last entry 5pm)
Oct: Daily, 9.30am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)
Nov to Mar: Daily, 9.30am to 4.30pm (last entry 3.30pm)

More opening hours

Admission

7 – 15	£8.70
16 – 64	£14.50
65+	£11.60
Family (1 adult, 2 children)	£28.50
Family (2 adults, 2 children)	£41.50
Family (2 adults, 3 children)	£49.50
Unemployed1	£11.60

More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible

Coffee

Location & Map

Urquhart Castle, Drumnadrochit

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Urquhart Castle have been found.

Urquhart Castle Reviews

Urquhart Castle has 1 rating.

Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

Urquhart Castle, located on the shores of Loch Ness in Drumnadrochit, Scotland, offers visitors a glimpse into medieval Scottish history. The castle ruins, dating back to the 13th century, provide an atmospheric setting for exploring Scotland's past. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved remains and the informative exhibits that detail the castle's tumultuous history.

The site's location is particularly praised, offering stunning views over Loch Ness. Many visitors find the scenery breathtaking and enjoy taking photographs of the picturesque ruins against the backdrop of the famous loch. The visitor center is modern and well-equipped, featuring artifacts found at the site and a short film that helps set the historical context.

While most find the experience rewarding, some visitors mention that the castle ruins themselves are relatively limited in scope, and those expecting a fully intact castle might be disappointed. Additionally, the site can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, which may affect the overall experience.

The castle's connection to Loch Ness adds an element of intrigue, with some visitors hoping (often in vain) for a glimpse of the legendary Loch Ness Monster. This aspect, while not directly related to the historical significance of the castle, adds to its appeal for many tourists.

Accessibility can be an issue for some visitors, as parts of the ruins involve uneven terrain and steps. However, the visitor center and main viewing areas are generally accessible to most.

Overall, Urquhart Castle offers a solid combination of historical interest, scenic beauty, and Scottish cultural experience. While it may not be the most extensive castle ruin in Scotland, its location and the quality of its presentation make it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the Scottish Highlands.

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Urquhart Castle