Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland A Complete Guide
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.
Table of Contents
- How Do I Get To Eilean Donan Castle Scotland?
- How Much Does Eilean Donan Castle Cost?
- When is the Eilean Donan Castle Open?
- Parking at Eilean Donan Castle?
- Overnight Parking At Eilean Donan Castle
- Are There Toilets at Eilean Donan Castle?
- How to visit Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland
- The History of Eilean Donan Castle
- Can you see Eilean Donan Castle for free
- Things to see in Eilean Donan Castle
- How long do you need at Eilean Donan Castle
- How long is it to walk around Eilean Donan Castle
- Walks around Eilean Donan Castle
- Eilean Donan visitor centre and gift shop
- Eilean Donan cafe
- Why is Eilean Donan Castle famous
- What films have Eilean Donan Castle been featured in?
- Things to do near Eilean Donan Castle
- Bakery near Eilean Donan Castle
- What to pack for Eilean Donan Castle
- Campsites near Eilean Donan Castle
- Where to stay near Eilean Donan Castle
- FAQ
How Do I Get To Eilean Donan Castle Scotland?
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.
How Much Does Eilean Donan Castle Cost?
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
- Adults - £11.00
- Concessions (Seniors Aged 60+) - £10.00
- Family (2 Adults + 3 Children Aged 5-15) - £32.00
- Children over 5 - £6.50
- Under 5s - FREE
Eilean Donan Castle Opening Times
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
- 10 am – 4 pm
- (Last Admission 3 pm)
26th March – 26th May 2023
- 10 am – 6 pm
- (Last Admission 5 pm)
27th May – 30th June 2023
- 9.30 am – 6 pm
- (Last Admission 5 pm)
1st July – 31st August 2023
- 9 am – 6 pm
- (Last Admission 5 pm)
1st – 30th September 2023
- 9.30 – 6 pm
- (Last Admission 5 pm)
Parking at Eilean Donan Castle?
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.
Dornie Community Hall and Toilets
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.
Overnight Parking At Eilean Donan Castle
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.
Are There Toilets At Eilean Donan Castle
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.
How to visit Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland
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.
The History of Eilean Donan Castle?
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.
Things to see in Eilean Donan Castle
- Castle Interior:
The castle's interior has been beautifully restored and is open to visitors. Some of the highlights include the Great Hall, the Banqueting Hall, the kitchen, and the bedrooms. Each room is filled with period furnishings and decorations that give visitors a sense of what life was like in the castle's heyday.
- Exhibits: Eilean Donan Castle has several exhibits that explore the castle's history, including its role in the Jacobite rebellion and its use as a filming location in popular movies. The exhibits include displays of historical artefacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations.
- Views from the tower: You can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the castle's tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The views from the tower are particularly stunning and offer a unique perspective of the castle and the surrounding landscape.
- Gardens and grounds: Eilean Donan Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and grounds that offer a tranquil and peaceful setting for visitors to explore. The gardens are beautifully landscaped and include a variety of plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year.
- Gift shop: Eilean Donan Castle has a gift shop that sells a variety of Scottish gifts and souvenirs. You can find everything from tartan scarves and kilts to whisky glasses and postcards.
How long do you need at Eilean Donan Castle?
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.
How Long is it to Walk Around Eilean Donan Castle?
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.
Walks around Eilean Donan Castle
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 visitor centre & gift shop
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.
Eilean Donan café
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.
Why is Eilean Donan Castle famous?
Eilean Donan Castle has a rich history, it's one of the most photographed castles in Scotland and is famous for several reasons:
- Movie location: It’s possibly one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and is certainly one of the most photographed. It’s also been in numerous movies like Highlander to James Bond.
- Its stunning location: The castle is situated on a small island at the confluence of three sea lochs - Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh. This location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and makes for an impressive sight.
- Its rich history:
Eilean Donan Castle has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 13th century. The castle has been the site of numerous battles and sieges over the centuries and has been occupied by various clans and families throughout its history.
- Its unique architecture: Eilean Donan Castle is an impressive example of medieval architecture, with its distinctive stone walls, towers, and turrets. The castle has been beautifully restored in recent years, and visitors can now explore its many rooms and exhibits.
- Its pop culture status: Eilean Donan Castle has been featured in several films, television shows, and books over the years, which has helped to elevate its profile and make it a famous landmark in Scotland and beyond.
What movies & films has Eilean Donan Castle been featured in?
Eilean Donan Castle has been featured in several movies over the years, including:
- The Master of Ballantrae (1953): This film, based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, features Eilean Donan Castle as a key location.
- The New Avengers (1976): The opening sequence of this British television series features a car chase that ends at Eilean Donan Castle.
- Highlander (1986): This cult classic film features Eilean Donan Castle in Highlander as the home of the character Connor MacLeod, played by Christopher Lambert.
- Loch Ness (1996): This film, starring Ted Danson, was partially filmed at Eilean Donan Castle.
- The World is Not Enough (1999): This James Bond film includes a brief shot of Eilean Donan Castle during the opening sequence.
- Maid of Honor (2006): This Hallmark Channel movie features Eilean Donan Castle as the setting for a romantic wedding.
- Made of Honor (2008): This romantic comedy, starring Patrick Dempsey, also features Eilean Donan Castle as the location for a wedding.
Things to do near Eilean Donan Castle
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.
- Visit the Isle of Skye - Skye is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools.
- Walk the Five Sisters of Kintail - This mountain range offers challenging hikes with stunning views.
- Go on a boat tour - Take a boat trip to see the seals, dolphins and whales in the area.
- Visit the Eilean Donan Visitor Centre - Learn more about the castle's history and the local area.
- Go fishing - Loch Duich is a popular spot for fishing.
- Explore the Lochalsh Woodland Garden - A beautiful garden with a wide range of plants and flowers.
- Take a drive on the Isle of Skye - The island offers scenic driving routes, including the Trotternish Peninsula and the Quiraing.
- Visit the Glenelg Brochs - Explore the remains of ancient Iron Age forts.
- Go kayaking or canoeing - The surrounding lochs and rivers are perfect for a paddle.
- Explore the Attadale Gardens - A stunning collection of gardens, sculptures, and water features in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Bakery Near Eilean Donan Castle
If you find yourself at the castle and fancy a cheeky bite to eat then head over to one of these amazing bakeries.
- The Clachan: This family-run cafe and bakery is located in Dornie, just a short walk from Eilean Donan Castle. They offer a range of freshly baked bread, cakes, pastries, and other treats, as well as a selection of hot and cold drinks.
- The Wee Bakery: Located in Kyle of Lochalsh, just a short drive from Eilean Donan Castle, this cosy bakery specialises in homemade cakes, scones, and other baked goods, as well as artisan breads and locally sourced ingredients. This was hands down one of the best bakeries we went to in Scotland.
What To Pack for Eilean Donan Castle
Campsites near Eilean Donan Castle
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.
- Distance: 0.8 miles
- Address: Ardelve campsite, Ardelve, Kyle IV40 8DR
- Telephone number: 01599555231
- Website: https://www.ardelvecaravanandcampingpark.com/
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.
- Distance: 4.8 miles
- Address: Balmacara, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DH
- Telephone number: 07342878776
- Website: https://www.reraigcamping.com/
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.
- Distance: 6.6 miles
- Address: Morvich, Inverinate, Kyle IV40 8HQ
- Telephone number: 01599511354
- Website: https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/club-sites/scotland/highlands/morvich-club-campsite/
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.
- Distance: 7.4 miles
- Address: Glenhiel Campsite, Kyle IV40 8HW
- Website: https://www.glenshiel-camping.co.uk/
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.
- Distance: 14 miles
- Address: Moyle Park, Kyle Highland, IV40 8LA, Scotland
- Telephone number: +441599522242
- Website: https://www.moylecampsite.co.uk/
Where To Stay near Eilean Donan Castle
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.
- Address: 8-10 Francis St, Dornie, Kyle IV40 8DT
- Telephone: 01599 555205
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.
- Address: Glenmoriston, Inverness-Shire IV63 7YW
- Phone: 01320 340238
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.
- Address: Balmacara Hotel Balmacara, Balmacara, Kyle IV40 8DH
- Phone: 01599 537044
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.
- Address: Main St, Kyle of Lochalsh, Kyle IV40 8AB
- Phone: 01599 534204
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.
- Address: Annat, By Achnasheen, Wester Ross IV22 2EY
- Phone:
01445 791242
Share
Checkout our YouTube Vlogs
Follow Us On YouTube 👉🏼
