Dunnottar Castle — Attraction in Great Britain

We missed this on our first trip to Scotland, and almost did again, as the admission price was not included in our Historical Scotland Explorer Pass. But after reading reviews, and planning an east coast drive, we knew we had to stop, and boy were we glad we did! This amazing ruin of a castle known as Dunnotar sits majestically on the Scottish cliffs overlooking the North Sea. On approach, we already knew the place was used for some filming, like Dracula, etc, but I'm not sure we were ready for the spectacular setting! From an upper parking lot, we could see the ruins in the distance, but the approach just kept getting better and better as we neared the castle. The defensible position, the path down to the sea, then up to the castle entrance, the white sand beaches and the green hills that melt into black rocks on the edge of the sea made the view a bit fantasy-ish for certain!

Once in the castle and on the main grounds, it was amazing to see how many structures still stood. The history here is quite amazing - as it dates all the way back to the 10th and 11th centuries. William Wallace was even rumored to use the postern (rear-entrance) to sneak in with his men and overtake an English garrison stationed here in 1296 during the Wars of Independence. There was information on the Whigs prison, the royal artifacts (crown jewels and sword now in Edinburgh Castle, once kept here and stolen for safe keeping), and more history touching the royal line of Scotland down through the centuries. Beyond that though, you just couldn't beat wandering the ruins and taking in the views as you did so. If it isn't stone, it's covered in green!

Wandering into the structures of Dunnotar, we were amazed at the geometry, the architecture, and the decor, not to mention the arched views of the ocean! Up in the king's chambers, we found a stone with a royal coat of arms, and a cool stone clock! They had rebuilt a dining hall to replicate what the room would have looked like, but most of it was still just original stone structures. Very worth our time and money to stop...

Perched dramatically on a rugged headland above the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle is a breathtaking fusion of natural majesty and historical gravitas. Just south of Stonehaven, this medieval fortress commands both land and sea with a presence that borders on mythical.

The approach alone is cinematic—after a coastal path that brushes against crashing waves and wind-swept cliffs, the castle emerges like a vision from folklore. Towering stone walls and crumbling turrets stand defiant against time, weathered by centuries of wind and war.

Steeped in Scottish history, Dunnottar played host to some of the nation’s most pivotal moments. It sheltered the Scottish Crown Jewels during Cromwell’s invasion, held captured Jacobites, and bore witness to countless sieges and struggles. Walking through its ruins—past the keep, chapel, and barracks—one can almost hear echoes of the past in the howling sea breeze.

What sets Dunnottar apart is not just its architecture, but its astonishing setting. From the cliffside, the panoramic views are nothing short of cinematic: waves pound the rocks far below, seabirds wheel overhead, and the horizon seems to stretch into legend.

Despite being partially ruined, the castle remains remarkably evocative. There’s a rawness to it—untamed and slightly eerie—that makes it feel less like a tourist attraction and more like a living relic of Scotland’s soul.

Practical Notes: • Wear good walking shoes—the path down and back up is steep and involves stairs. • Try to visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and to catch the golden light for photos. • Entry is affordable, and the staff are informative and friendly. • Nearby Stonehaven makes for a perfect post-castle meal or coffee break.

Verdict: Dunnottar Castle is a must-visit for anyone drawn to dramatic landscapes, ancient history, or the poetic melancholy of ruins. Few places in Scotland—and perhaps the world—blend myth, memory, and majesty quite so perfectly.

Rating: 5/5 — An unforgettable,...

A must-see gem on Scotland’s east coast — rich in history and unforgettable views.

My visit to Dunnottar Castle was nothing short of magical. This iconic clifftop fortress near Stonehaven is not only visually stunning but steeped in Scottish history. The moment you approach the site, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the powerful North Sea crashing against the rocks — a perfect backdrop for this dramatic ruin.

The walk to the castle is scenic and enjoyable, but do wear sturdy footwear — the descent to the entrance and climb back up involves quite a few steps. It’s not overly strenuous, but you’ll appreciate proper shoes, especially in damp weather.

Once inside, the scale of the castle grounds is impressive. You can explore various sections including the tower house, chapel, smithy, and barracks. Interpretive signs are placed throughout, offering insights into the castle’s storied past. Perhaps its most famous moment came in 1651, when a small group of Scots bravely hid the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels) here to protect them from Cromwell’s army. Their courage helped preserve an important part of Scotland’s royal heritage.

The atmosphere is powerful — especially if you visit in quiet hours. The sea breeze, the cries of seabirds, and the sheer isolation of the castle create an unforgettable sense of stepping back in time.

There’s also a small visitor centre and gift shop at the car park, and plenty of photo opportunities along the walking path. Stonehaven is just a short drive away if you’d like to grab a meal or explore further.

Whether you’re into history, photography, or simply breathtaking views, Dunnottar Castle is a must-visit. It’s one of the most atmospheric and awe-inspiring places I’ve ever experienced...