Eilean Donan Castle is in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and is one of Scotland's most famous castles. It offers a rich and fascinating history, breathtaking scenery, and an unforgettable experience. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland. Eilean Donan Castle is a must-visit for anyone travelling to the Highlands. Also worth noting is if you're doing the NC500, it's just south of the main NC500 route and is definitely worth the detour. Also if you love castles then you're in the right places as Scotland has a huge amount of castles to visit.
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There are several ways to get to Eilean Donan Castle, depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation. Here are some options for how to get to Eilean Donan Castle below. The closest village near Eilean Donan Castle is Dornie:
Car: The castle is located on the A87 road between Kyle of Lochalsh and Invergarry, and there is ample parking available on-site. If you're travelling from Glasgow or Edinburgh, the drive takes around 4-5 hours, while from Inverness, it takes about 2 hours.
Bus: If you prefer not to drive, there are several bus companies that operate services to Eilean Donan Castle from nearby towns and cities, including Inverness, Fort William, and Kyle of Lochalsh. The bus journey can take a little longer than driving yourself but it allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Check out City Link buses for your journey to the castle.
Train: While there is no train station at Eilean Donan Castle itself, the nearest railway station is in Kyle of Lochalsh, which is just a 10-minute drive away. Trains from Inverness and Glasgow run to Kyle of Lochalsh several times a day, and there are also connecting bus services available.
Boat: For a unique and memorable experience, you can also reach Eilean Donan Castle by boat. Several tour companies operate boat trips to the castle from nearby towns, including Kyle of Lochalsh and Plockton. This allows you to see the castle from a different perspective and take in the stunning scenery of Loch Duich along the way.
Eilean Donan castle ticket prices are listed below for 2023. You can purchase your admission tickets for the Castle at the visitor centre. It looks like you can't pre-book tickets online for Eilean Donan Castle. The tickets have to be purchased at the visitor centre.
We've listed the ticket prices below. Please note that you can take pictures outside of the castle but you cannot take pictures inside the castle.
Castle Admission Prices
The Castle and Exhibitions Opening Hours are listed below for you. They change from month to month so make sure you double check before visiting. Please note that for security reasons they operate a bag policy, where backpacks and large bags are not allowed inside the castle. There are free security lockers adjacent to the main visitor centre.
1st February – 25th March 2023
26th March – 26th May 2023
27th May – 30th June 2023
1st July – 31st August 2023
1st – 30th September 2023
Yes, there is parking available at Eilean Donan Castle for visitors. Eilean Donan Castle parking is located just a short walk from the castle entrance. It's pay-and-display parking and it is not free of charge. It's £3 for 2 hours at the Eilean Donan Castle car park. There is also a designated area for tour buses and coaches and larger parking for motorhomes.
During peak season, particularly in the summer months, the car park can fill up quickly. We advise arriving early to secure a space.
It's also worth noting that the car park can be quite busy and there may be limited space for larger vehicles, such as motorhomes or camper vans. If you're planning to visit in a larger vehicle, it's worth checking with the castle in advance 01599 555202. We've added a Google Maps link so you have direct access to where the parking is at Eilean Donan Castle.
There is also parking and public toilets at the Dornie Community Hall. Parking starts from £1 for 2 hours. Here's the Google Maps link for you. Overnight parking isn't permitted here or at the castle car park.
Unfortunately, you cannot overnight park at the Castle Car Park. It's intended for daytime visitors only and is locked overnight. Not to fear there are a whole bunch of places to stay locally, whether that be campsites or accommodation.
Yes, there are toilets available for visitors at Eilean Donan Castle. The toilets are located near the castle entrance and are easily accessible to all visitors.
There are also public toilets at Dornie Community Hall which are free to use.
Plan your visit: Eilean Donan Castle is open to visitors from April to October, with slightly reduced hours during the winter months. Check the castle's website or contact them directly to confirm opening hours and admission prices.
Get there: Eilean Donan Castle is located near the village of Dornie, approximately 12 miles (19 km) east of the town of Kyle of Lochalsh. The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, about 68 miles away. You can get to the castle by car or by public transportation. There are regular bus services from Inverness and other major towns in the region, and there's also a train station in Kyle of Lochalsh.
Explore the castle: Once you arrive at Eilean Donan Castle, take your time to explore the castle's interior and exterior. You can join a guided tour or explore the castle at your own pace. If you pay to go in the castle be sure to check the Great Hall, the Banqueting Hall, and the bedrooms.
Enjoy the surroundings: Eilean Donan Castle is located in a beautiful area. You've most likely seen the pictures on Instagram. With the Loch Duich and the mountains providing a beautiful backdrop. You can also walk around the castle's gardens and grounds.
Shop and eat: Before you leave visit the castle's gift shop to pick up some souvenirs or Scottish gifts. If you're hungry then you can grab something at the castle's café.
Set on a small tidal island where three lochs meet, Eilean Donan Castle has a rich history that spans over 800 years. From its humble beginnings as a stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie, to its role as a key defensive position against the Jacobite uprisings, the castle has played an important part in Scotland's history.
The first recorded structure on the site was a vitrified fort dating back to the Iron Age. The castle you see today was built in the 13th century by the Clan Mackenzie. The castle has changed hands over the centuries.
In the 16th century, Eilean Donan Castle was extensively renovated and expanded by the Clan MacRae, who were loyal supporters of the Scottish Crown. Around this time the castle became a strategic stronghold in the region. Due to its location, it was perfect for guarding the sea route to the Isles against invading forces.
Eilean Donan Castle's most famous moment in history was in the 18th century during the Jacobite rebellion. In 1719, a Spanish invasion force landed on the shores of Loch Alsh and attempted to capture the castle. After resistance from the castle's defenders and the Spanish were forced to retreat.
After the rebellion, Eilean Donan Castle fell into disrepair and was abandoned for almost 200 years. In the early 20th century the castle was restored back to its former glory.
There are a few vantage points where you can see the castle without paying. Walking over the Dornie Bridge you can get a great view. Also looking on from the surrounding hills is a great shout. But here's a little tip for you. Did you know (and not many people do) that you can visit Eilean Donan for FREE once the castle has closed for the day? You can't go in but you can walk onto the Island and walk around the castle. We'd recommend doing the early in the day before it opens or after closing hours. Depending on your time of day you may get a great sunrise or sunset. So if you're wondering if can you see Eilean Donan Castle without paying, the answer is yes. Enjoy the view!
Well, it really depends on how long to spend at Eilean Donan Castle. The amount of time you spend at Eilean Donan Castle depends on what you want to see and do. Generally, most people spend between 1-2 hours exploring the castle, the grounds, and the visitor centre.
If you're interested in learning more about the castle's history and significance, you may want to spend more time exploring the exhibits and displays at the visitor centre. Alternatively, if you're a photographer, then spend more time taking photos of the castle and its surroundings.
The Eilean Donan Castle is located on a small island in Loch Duich in the western Scottish Highlands. The castle is quite compact, and it only takes a few minutes to walk around the outside of the castle on the island and take in the views of the castle from different angles.
The path around the castle has stunning views of the castle, the loch, and the surrounding mountains. Depending on how fast you walk and what you want to take in, it can take from 10 to 20 minutes to complete the walk around the castle.
If you plan to visit the castle's interior and explore its various rooms and exhibits, you should allow yourself at least an hour or more to fully appreciate all that Eilean Donan has to offer.
When we visited we walked from the Ardelve Caravan and Camping Park. Which is where we stayed. We headed off across the bridge and over to the Castle. As the castle was closed for the day, we had the opportunity to walk around it for free and took in the views.
Eilean Donan Castle has a visitor centre and gift shop that offers a variety of services and amenities to visitors. Here's what you can expect to find at the visitor centre and gift shop:
Information desk: The visitor centre has an information desk where you can ask questions about the castle, its history, and the surrounding area. The staff can also provide you with maps and brochures to help you plan your visit.
Tickets: You can purchase Eilean Donan Castle tickets at the visitor centre. The staff can also help you book guided tours or arrange for special events.
Gift shop: The gift shop at Eilean Donan Castle sells a variety of Scottish gifts and souvenirs, including tartan scarves, kilts, whisky glasses, postcards, and more. You can also find books and DVDs about the castle's history and the surrounding area.
Cafe: The visitor centre has a cafe where you can enjoy a meal or a snack. The cafe serves a variety of Scottish dishes, as well as sandwiches, soups, and salads. You can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with a slice of cake or a scone.
Toilets: The visitor centre has public restrooms that are clean and well-maintained.
Yes, Eilean Donan Castle has a café where visitors can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. The café is located within the castle's visitor centre, and it offers a range of Scottish dishes, as well as sandwiches, soups, and salads.
The café is open during the castle's regular opening hours, and visitors can choose to sit inside or outside on the terrace, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Eilean Donan Castle has a rich history, it's one of the most photographed castles in Scotland and is famous for several reasons:
Eilean Donan Castle has been featured in several movies over the years, including:
It's a beautiful area and whether it's a day trip or you're looking to stay a little longer. There's a lot to do near Eilean Donan Castle. Here's our list of things to do whilst you're in the area.
If you find yourself at the castle and fancy a cheeky bite to eat then head over to one of these amazing bakeries.
After a good day of adventuring and seeing the sights of the Scottish Highlands and castles, you might not want to venture far for your overnight stay. Finding campsites near Eilean Donan Castle could be an option for you. We stayed at Ardelve Caravan & Camping Park, it's literally across the bridge from the castle. There is also a great bakery (Manuela’s wee Bakery) just outside the entrance of the campsite, a must if you stay or pass through. Here's our selection of campsites near Eilean Donan Castle.
Ardelve Caravan & Camping Park
Ardelve Caravan & Camping Park is located just 0.8 miles from Eilean Donan Castle and offers pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes. They have facilities including toilets, showers, laundry, and a small shop. Electric hook-ups and WiFi are also available.
Reraig Caravan & Camping Skye
Reraig Caravan & Camping Skye is a family-run campsite situated on the Isle of Skye. It offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, as well as a small selection of glamping pods. Facilities include toilets, showers, laundry, and a communal kitchen area. The site also has panoramic views of the surrounding hills and sea lochs.
Morvich Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite
Morvich Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is situated in a beautiful location at the foot of the Five Sisters of Kintail mountain range. It offers pitches for caravans, motorhomes, and tents, with facilities including toilets, showers, and a small shop. The site is surrounded by stunning scenery, with many walking and cycling routes nearby.
Glenshiel Campsite
Glenshiel Campsite is a small, family-run campsite located on the north side of Loch Duich, close to Eilean Donan Castle. It offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, as well as a small number of static caravans. Facilities include toilets, showers, laundry, and a small shop.
Moyle Campsite
Moyle Campsite is a small, family-run campsite situated in a peaceful location on the west coast of Scotland. It offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, with facilities including toilets, showers, laundry, and a small shop. The site is located in a stunning location with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
Eilean Donan Castle accommodation can be found in the local area. There are several hotels located near Eilean Donan Castle, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to this iconic Scottish landmark. Here are a few options:
Dornie Hotel: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Dornie, just a short walk from Eilean Donan Castle. It features comfortable guest rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a bar with a selection of Scottish whiskies.
The Cluanie Inn: Situated in nearby Glen Shiel, this traditional Scottish inn offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant serving locally sourced ingredients, and a bar with a cosy fireplace.
Balmacara Hotel: Located on the shores of Loch Alsh, just a short drive from Eilean Donan Castle, this elegant hotel features stylish guest rooms, a restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine, and a bar with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Kyle Hotel: Situated in nearby Kyle of Lochalsh, this modern hotel offers comfortable guest rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a bar with a selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
Torridon Inn: Located in the stunning Torridon Mountains, a scenic drive from Eilean Donan Castle, this charming inn features comfortable guest rooms, a restaurant serving local and seasonal cuisine, and a bar with a selection of whiskies and other drinks.
Yes, you can pay to go inside Eilean Donan Castle. Photography is not permitted inside the castle.
In our opinion, it's a big Yes. Eilean Donan Castle is definitely worth visiting! Whether you love castles or. It's by far one of the most iconic and historic castles in Scotland. The located in a stunning and perfect for any level of photographer.
No, you cannot stay in Eilean Donan Castle itself as it's a historic site and museum that is open to the public during the day.
Eilean Donan Castle is a very well-preserved and historic castle. Inside the castle, you can explore a variety of rooms and spaces like the Great Hall, Kitchen, Bedrooms, Armory and Chapel.
The full address and postcode for Eilean Donan Castle is:
Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DX
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