Urquhart Castle

What it is and why it matters

A castle stood here from soon after 1229, and the ruins date from the 13th to 16th centuries. It changed hands repeatedly in the Wars of Independence: Edward I took it in 1296, Andrew de Moray besieged it in 1297 and Robert the Bruce captured it in 1307. James IV granted it to John Grant in 1509, and the Grants rebuilt much of it. Government troops blew up the gatehouse after a Jacobite siege around 1690 to stop it being reused. The five-storey Grant Tower on the loch edge is the tallest surviving part.

Visiting practicalities

Historic Environment Scotland advises booking online, because once tickets sell out none are sold at the castle. Car parking is free but limited and only guaranteed when added to an online booking; motorhome spaces must also be booked. Paths inside are tarmac or gravel but many are steep, and the Grant Tower is reached by wooden stairs. Rucksacks of 30 litres or more are not allowed, and only assistance dogs can enter. Boats can moor at the jetty if booked in advance.

Nearby and combining your visit

Drumnadrochit is the nearest village, about 2 miles away, and Inverness is a short drive north along the A82. Cyclists can use the National Cycle Network and there is a bike rack on site.

Highlights

• Ruins dating from the 13th to 16th centuries on Loch Ness
• Five-storey Grant Tower overlooking the loch
• Fought over in the Wars of Scottish Independence
• Gatehouse blown up after a Jacobite siege around 1690

Good to know

• Book online; tickets often sell out in summer and are not sold on site once gone
• Free parking is limited and only guaranteed when booked
• Rucksacks of 30 litres or more are not permitted
• No dogs except assistance dogs

Frequently asked questions