Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle featuring tranquil scenes, a castle and heritage architecture
Eilean Donan Castle which includes heritage elements, a lake or waterhole and château or palace
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle featuring château or palace, heritage elements and a river or creek
Eilean Donan Castle featuring heritage elements, a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture


One of Scotland’s most stunning castles, this icon has been featured in movies ranging from Highlander to The World is Not Enough.

Eilean Donan Castle is among the most photographed monuments in the country. This comes as no surprise considering its dramatic setting on an offshore islet, overlooking the confluence of three sea lochs and surrounded by the mountains of Kintail. Wander through the castle’s interior to see its impressive collection of historic weapons, Jacobean artifacts and period furniture.

The original castle on this site was built in the early 13th century to defend the lands of Kintail from the Vikings. Damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries, the castle you see today was restored by Colonel MacRae in 1932. The current incarnation incorporates the ruins remaining from the castle’s last destruction in 1719. Begin your exploration at the visitor center on the mainland across from the castle, which also includes the ticket office.

Cross over the narrow stone bridge leading to the castle’s islet. The bridge is one of the most famous aspects of the castle, although it’s actually a recent addition, constructed during the 1930s restorations.

Visits start with the introductory exhibit in the castle’s southwest wing. Learn about the history of the castle and see models detailing its various designs over the centuries. Next, head to the sea gate in the castle’s courtyard for wonderful views of Loch Alsh.

Continue into the castle’s main keep, where three floors are open to the public. Look inside bedrooms, troop quarters and a grand banqueting hall.

As you explore, notice photos of scenes filmed at the castle from the movie Highlander as well as a sword used at the battle of Culloden in 1746. Look inside kitchens, which have been laid out to resemble how they might have looked during a grand banquet. Follow side passages leading to the battlements for beautiful aerial views over the surrounding area.

Eilean Donan Castle is 9 miles (14 kilometers) east of Lochalsh. A number of tour companies offer daytrips. The castle has an admission fee and is open daily, with regular closures for holidays. Don’t miss one of Scotland’s most picturesque castles.

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Reviews of Eilean Donan Castle

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
18
5 - Excellent 56%
4 - Good
13
4 - Good 41%
3 - Okay
1
3 - Okay 3%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

This was closed in January but was a great place to visit if you just want a quick walk around to have a look. Opens 1st Feb, sadly we missed it!

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Things to do near Eilean Donan Castle

When visiting Eilean Donan Castle, you'll find an array of enjoyable activities, including scenic walking and hiking trails that showcase the stunning landscapes. For a unique experience, consider joining a boat tour to explore the surrounding waters. Inside the castle, you can also unwind with a game of billiards, making your visit both entertaining and memorable.

Shopping

Eilean Donan Castle offers a unique shopping experience with local gift shops nearby. If you're up for a drive, visit Magpie, located 22.5km away, where you can find a delightful selection of souvenirs and handmade crafts to take home.

Recreation

Lochcarron Golf Course, located 16.1km from Eilean Donan Castle, offers a luxurious retreat amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy a round of golf while taking in breathtaking views, or relax in the serene surroundings that provide a perfect backdrop for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Embark on a hike at the Five Sisters of Kintail, located 12.9km from Eilean Donan Castle, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure. Alternatively, the Circular Walk, 35.4km away, offers stunning outdoor views and a perfect way to explore the Scottish landscape.

Nightlife

While Eilean Donan Castle itself is not known for vibrant nightlife, nearby Dornie offers a few cosy pubs like the Dornie Hotel, where you can enjoy a pint and local music. For a more lively atmosphere, drive to Kyle of Lochalsh for additional dining and entertainment options.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Eilean Donan Castle

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, Eilean Donan Castle offers a wealth of attractions. Explore the stunning landmark itself, wander through the picturesque historic village, or relax at the charming harbour. With opportunities for outdoor activities and beach experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of Scotland.

  • Skye Bridge: A remarkable landmark situated 12.9km from Eilean Donan Castle, Skye Bridge offers friendly locals and a relaxing atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to enjoy luxury vibes while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Plockton Harbour: Located 11.3km away, Plockton Harbour is a picturesque harbour renowned for its beautiful beach and breathtaking scenery. This charming location is ideal for leisurely strolls along the waterfront and soaking up the tranquil vibes.
  • Loch Carron: A historic village found 14.5km from the castle, Loch Carron boasts rich cultural heritage. Explore its quaint streets and immerse yourself in the local traditions, making it a unique experience for culture enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Eilean Donan Castle

The best time to visit Eilean Donan Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is very cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is very cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January36.1°F (2.3°C)Moderate RainVery CloudyLowSlightly Low
February36.9°F (2.7°C)Light RainVery CloudyLowSlightly Low
March39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainVery CloudyHighSlightly High
August54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainVery CloudyHighSlightly High
September51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainVery CloudyHighAverage
October46.6°F (8.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November41.0°F (5.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December37.2°F (2.9°C)Moderate RainVery CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Eilean Donan Castle

To save money on your visit to Eilean Donan Castle, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January to February and November. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Wednesdays are typically the least expensive days for accommodation, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tools to filter for budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels and combine your hotel stay with flights and activities for better rates. Remember to sort price listings from lowest to highest for the best deals.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Eilean Donan Castle are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Eilean Donan Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Eilean Donan Castle is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Eilean Donan Castle is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Eilean Donan Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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