Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds
Explore Dunollie’s rich history, stunning castle ruins, and enchanting woodland gardens overlooking Oban Bay in a captivating heritage experience.
Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds near Oban is a heritage site rich in history, nature, and culture. It features the medieval castle ruins perched on a cliff with stunning views across Oban Bay, the 1745 House Museum showcasing Clan MacDougall artifacts, and beautiful woodland gardens with trails and unique outdoor features. Open seasonally from March to October, it offers guided tours, a café, and a gift shop, making it a captivating destination for history and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds
- Dunollie House, Oban, PA34 5TT, GB
- +441631570550
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes to comfortably explore the woodland trails and castle ruins.
- Visit during weekdays for guided tours offered twice daily and a quieter experience.
- Check the seasonal opening hours before visiting, as the site is closed from November to mid-March.
- Take advantage of the 'Pay Once, Visit All Year' ticket for unlimited visits within the season.
- Bring your dog on a lead to enjoy the extensive outdoor grounds together.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Ganavan Bus from Oban town center, which stops near the bottom of Dunollie’s driveway; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. The bus service is frequent in spring and summer, with fares around £2-£3 one way.
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Walking
Walk north from Oban town center along the seafront and through Dunollie Woods via the old carriageway footpath. The walk takes approximately 20-25 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for most fitness levels.
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Car
Drive from Oban following local signs for Ganavan; parking is free and accessible at the site. The drive takes about 5 minutes. Note there are no dedicated tourist attraction road signs, so GPS navigation is recommended.
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Train and Cycle
Arrive at Oban train station from Glasgow, then rent a bicycle for an 8-minute scenic ride north along the seafront to Dunollie. Cycling is a pleasant option in good weather and provides easy access to the grounds.
Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds
Historical Legacy of Dunollie
Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds stand as a testament to over a millennium of Scottish history, serving as the ancestral seat of Clan MacDougall for more than 800 years. The medieval castle ruins, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking Oban Bay, offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s turbulent past and strategic importance. The site reveals traces of human occupation stretching back thousands of years, embedding Dunollie deeply in Scotland’s cultural heritage.The 1745 House Museum and Exhibitions
Beneath the castle ruins lies the 1745 House Museum, once the laird’s residence, now housing a rich collection of Highland social history and Clan MacDougall memorabilia. Exhibitions here range from Jacobite-era artifacts to contemporary photography, such as the 'Hope Behind the Lens' display featuring images of Oban and its surroundings. The museum provides a contextual narrative that enriches visitors’ understanding of the clan’s legacy and the broader historical landscape.Enchanting Woodland Grounds and Gardens
Surrounding the castle and museum are extensive historic woodland gardens, including the Faerie Garden, Raven Knoll, Willow Hall, and the World of Trees. These grounds offer peaceful trails for exploration and relaxation, with opportunities to discover hidden sculptures and tranquil spots. The weaving cottage occasionally hosts volunteer weavers, adding a living craft element to the experience. Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the outdoor areas, enhancing its appeal for nature lovers.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Dunollie offers a well-rounded visitor experience with its Kettle Garden Café serving home baking and light refreshments, and The Drapers Shop featuring exclusive tartans and locally made gifts. Guided tours run twice daily during the week, and on Sundays, a piper performs at the castle, enriching the atmosphere with traditional music. The site is family-friendly, with children’s activities and special events held year-round, including festive celebrations like Dunollie Makes Christmas.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
The museum, castle, and grounds are open from mid-March to the end of October, typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with occasional Saturday and evening openings in summer. Admission includes options for annual passes, family tickets, and concessions, supporting the preservation efforts of the MacDougall of Dunollie Preservation Trust. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear and prepare for variable weather, as much of the site is outdoors.Setting and Surroundings
Located just one mile north of Oban along the scenic coast, Dunollie offers breathtaking panoramic views of Oban Bay and the Inner Hebrides. The combination of historical ruins, curated museum exhibits, and natural beauty creates a unique cultural and environmental tapestry. The site’s accessibility by foot, bike, car, or bus from Oban makes it an ideal day trip for those seeking to immerse themselves in Scotland’s heritage and landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John's Scottish Episcopal Cathedral : Oban
1.3 km
An unfinished masterpiece where Gothic ambition meets industrial-age engineering in Scotland's most unusual cathedral.
McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
1.5 km
Explore Oban’s iconic McCaig's Tower, a Colosseum-inspired folly with stunning views and tranquil gardens atop Battery Hill.
Barcaldine Castle
10.6 km
Experience the haunting beauty and rich history of Barcaldine Castle, a 17th-century Scottish fortress overlooking Loch Creran.
Kilmartin Museum
32.6 km
Discover 12,000 years of history at Kilmartin Museum, where ancient artefacts meet the stunning prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen.
The Argyll Papers, Inveraray Castle
32.6 km
Explore over 700 years of Scottish history through the Campbell family’s extensive archive at Inveraray Castle.
Nether Largie Mid Cairn
33.2 km
Bronze Age burial cairn at the heart of Scotland's most significant prehistoric landscape, carved with rare axehead symbols.
The Tinkers Heart
38.0 km
A heart-shaped quartz monument near Cairndow honoring the Scottish Traveller community’s heritage with stunning views over Loch Fyne.
About Argyll Walking Holidays
38.2 km
Explore Argyll’s stunning landscapes with expert guided walking holidays from Cairndow’s trusted outdoor activity organizer.
Tobermory Clock Tower
42.0 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance
43.3 km
Explore the Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance, your essential guide to breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and local culture in Scotland.
Tioram Castle
45.1 km
A hauntingly beautiful ruined castle on a tidal island in Loch Moidart, once the seat of Clanranald and the Lords of the Isles.
Fossil Tree
45.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Fossil Tree on the Isle of Mull, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into ancient geological wonders amidst stunning landscapes.
Glas Eilean
46.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Glas Eilean, a hidden island gem in Lochgilphead surrounded by stunning Scottish landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Ben Vane
47.5 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Ben Vane, a majestic peak offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in the heart of Scotland's Highlands.
Jubilee Point
47.9 km
Explore Jubilee Point in Argyll Forest Park, a serene picnic ground with stunning views of Loch Eck, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rudh-a-Chruidh
0.8 km
Discover Rudh-a-Chruidh, a tidal island sanctuary near Oban with stunning coastal views, rich wildlife, and a sleek modern home blending nature and luxury.
St. Columba’s Cathedral
0.8 km
A majestic Neo-Gothic cathedral on Oban’s seafront, blending rich history, stunning granite architecture, and spiritual sanctuary.
Diocese of Argyll & The Isles
0.8 km
Historic Catholic diocese in Scotland’s West Highlands, centered on the neo-Gothic St Columba’s Cathedral overlooking Oban Bay.
Old Oban Times Bldg
1.3 km
Step into Oban’s past at this volunteer-run museum in the historic Old Oban Times Building, where wartime stories meet island life and engineering marvels.
Oban War & Peace Museum
1.3 km
Explore Oban’s rich wartime heritage and maritime history in this free, volunteer-run museum on the scenic Corran Esplanade.
Ganavan Sands
1.4 km
Peaceful sandy beach near Oban with scenic views, easy access, and family-friendly facilities for a relaxing coastal escape.
VisitScotland Oban iCentre
1.4 km
Your essential gateway to exploring Oban and the Scottish Highlands with expert advice and local insights.
Ardconnel Terrace
1.4 km
Discover Ardconnel Terrace’s Victorian charm and breathtaking coastal views in the heart of Oban’s historic landscape.
The View Oban
1.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of stunning views and delectable Scottish cuisine at The View Oban, a must-visit restaurant in Oban, Scotland.
Argyll Square
1.7 km
Historic Argyll Square anchors Oban’s waterfront with classical architecture and vibrant local life at Scotland’s scenic western coast.
Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel
4.2 km
Explore one of Scotland’s oldest stone castles with rich history, stunning sea views, and the haunting ruins of a medieval chapel near Oban.
Gylen Castle
7.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Gylen Castle, a 16th-century MacDougall tower house with breathtaking views over Scotland’s Firth of Lorne.
Duart Castle
11.1 km
Historic stronghold of Clan MacLean with stunning sea views and rich Scottish heritage on the Isle of Mull.
Ardchattan Priory
12.2 km
Discover the tranquil ruins and ancient gardens of Ardchattan Priory, a medieval monastic site steeped in Scottish history and clan heritage.
Waterfalls Scenic Walk
16.7 km
Discover tranquil waterfalls and rugged natural beauty on the Isle of Mull’s scenic hiking trail at Scallastle Farm.
Essential places to dine
EE-USK
1.4 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served with panoramic harbor views on Oban’s historic North Pier.
Taste of Argyll Kitchen
1.5 km
Cozy Scottish kitchen in Oban serving fresh, local dishes with a creative touch and warm hospitality.
Food From Argyll at the Pier
1.6 km
A vibrant café at Oban’s ferry terminal serving fresh, locally sourced Argyll produce with stunning waterfront views.
The Barn Bar
5.4 km
A rustic country pub at Cologin offering seasonal Scottish fare, cozy log fires, and lively local music near Oban.
Restaurant at the Isle of Eriska
12.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred dining on a private Scottish island, where local flavours and historic charm meet breathtaking Highland views.
Tigh An Truish
13.6 km
Charming inn and acclaimed restaurant with stunning views of the iconic Clachan Bridge, offering exquisite local cuisine and cozy accommodations.
Kilchrenan Inn
20.4 km
A cozy Highland inn blending rustic charm, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in peaceful Kilchrenan.
Restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel
21.8 km
Savor inventive Scottish cuisine with stunning sea loch views at the acclaimed Restaurant at Loch Melfort Hotel in Arduaine.
The Whitehouse Restaurant
21.8 km
An intimate fine dining haven in Lochaline serving innovative Scottish cuisine with fresh, local, and foraged ingredients in a historic coastal setting.
Cottage Restaurant
33.3 km
Cozy and charming dining in Inveraray with fresh local ingredients and warm, attentive service on Main Street West.
Samphire
33.4 km
Exquisite fresh seafood in a charming historic setting, Samphire offers a refined dining experience in the heart of Inveraray.
Ocho Inveraray
33.4 km
Unpretentious, flavorful dining in the heart of historic Inveraray with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Laroch Restaurant and Bar
35.2 km
Cozy Highland dining with hearty portions and tender meats in the welcoming village of Ballachulish.
Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar
38.3 km
Fresh Scottish seafood with stunning loch views in a rustic, welcoming setting at the head of Loch Fyne.
Inver Restaurant & Rooms
39.6 km
Discover a refined Scottish dining experience with fresh local ingredients and cozy rooms on the tranquil shores of Loch Fyne.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fancy That & Sci-Fi Planet
1.3 km
Discover a unique blend of local souvenirs and sci-fi collectibles at Fancy That & Sci-Fi Planet in the heart of Oban.
Bolliwood to the Smiddy
1.3 km
A warm, welcoming gift shop in Oban filled with handcrafted Scottish souvenirs and local crafts – perfect for meaningful keepsakes after exploring the coast.
The Modern Croft
1.4 km
A bright, contemporary homewares and gift shop in Oban, showcasing beautiful craft and design from Scotland and beyond.
Highland Experience
1.6 km
Explore Highland Experience in Oban for unique Scottish clothing and accessories that reflect the rich culture and craftsmanship of the Highlands.
McCaig's Warehouse
1.6 km
Discover quality Scottish clothing and unique gifts at McCaig's Warehouse, a welcoming boutique nestled in Oban’s Heritage Centre.
Made in Argyll
1.6 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, textiles and art from Argyll’s makers in a bright, harbour-side craft shop in Oban.
M E S S Charity Shop
13.8 km
Discover unique pre-loved treasures and support local sustainability at M E S S Charity Shop in Craignure’s community hub.
Island Castaways Within An Roth Community Centre
14.5 km
Discover unique preloved treasures and support local causes at Island Castaways, Craignure’s beloved charity shop on the Isle of Mull.
Craignure SPAR and Post Office
14.7 km
Discover the convenience of Craignure SPAR and Post Office, your one-stop shop for essentials and local delights on the Isle of Mull.
Ardfern Village Store
27.4 km
Charming village store offering local Scottish produce, essentials, and warm hospitality in the heart of Ardfern near Lochgilphead.
Bonnie Argyll - Bespoke gifts and crafts from Scotland
33.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish craftsmanship and bespoke gifts in the heart of historic Inveraray at Bonnie Argyll.
The House Of Scotland
33.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and craftsmanship in the heart of Inveraray’s historic Main Street.
Sid’s Vintage
33.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Inveraray at Sid’s Vintage, where every piece tells a story.
Hasn Candle Company
41.7 km
Discover handcrafted candles inspired by the natural beauty and seasonal scents of the Isle of Mull in Tobermory’s welcoming artisan shop.
Seafare
41.9 km
Tobermory’s trusted chandlery since 1977, offering essential marine safety gear and supplies in the heart of the Isle of Mull’s harbor town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Markie Dans
1.0 km
Family-run pub in Oban offering vast single malts, hearty food, live music, and stunning bay views in a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
The Tartan Tavern
1.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and traditional charm at The Tartan Tavern, a cozy and lively pub in the heart of Oban.
Cellar Bar
1.4 km
Cozy and traditional Scottish pub on Oban’s waterfront, famed for local whiskies, live music, and warm hospitality.
Lorne Bar
1.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Oban at The Lorne Bar.
Craignure Inn
14.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub and inn in Craignure offering hearty fare, comfortable rooms, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Mull.
Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa
15.3 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on the Isle of Mull, blending scenic views, spa relaxation, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Oyster Bar
18.0 km
A charming seafood haven in historic Ellenabeich, offering fresh oysters, scenic coastal views, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Clachan Bar
38.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish village hospitality and cozy charm at The Clachan Bar in picturesque Strachur.
The Anderson Lounge
40.6 km
A cozy, rustic bar in Cairnbaan offering local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Western Isles Hotel
41.9 km
Historic hotel with breathtaking Tobermory Bay views, classic charm, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Mull.
Mishnish
41.9 km
A traditional Scottish hotel and bar in Tobermory, famed for cosy harbour views, live folk music, and warm island hospitality.
Auld Mull Bar
41.9 km
Experience warm island hospitality and local flavors at Auld Mull Bar, a cozy family-run retreat in Tobermory’s charming harbor village.
The Tobermory Hotel
42.0 km
Historic boutique hotel with stunning Tobermory Bay views, local cuisine, and warm Highland hospitality on the Isle of Mull’s vibrant waterfront.
The Argyll Inn
43.6 km
A cozy local bar in Lochgilphead offering traditional Scottish hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere every day from noon to late evening.
Bothy Bar
44.9 km
A cozy Highland retreat offering traditional Scottish fare, warm hospitality, and stunning views in the heart of Kinlochleven.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Roobarb
48.8 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Word Up
69.1 km
Experience Greenock's revitalized nightlife at Word Up, a modern nightclub with vibrant energy and a welcoming atmosphere.
Red
69.8 km
Experience Greenock’s vibrant nightlife at Red Nightclub, where intimate vibes meet lively dance floors and affordable fun every weekend.
Jura Brewery
71.0 km
Discover Jura Brewery: A Craft Beer Experience in the Heart of the Isle of Jura, Where Tradition Meets Nature's Bounty.
The Jura Community Shop
72.0 km
Discover the charm of Isle of Jura at The Jura Community Shop, your go-to destination for local products and essentials in Craighouse.
Isle of Jura Distillery Co
72.1 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite flavors of Isle of Jura Distillery, a must-visit for whisky lovers in Scotland's stunning landscape.
Desire Nightclub
72.8 km
Experience Balloch’s vibrant nightlife at Desire Nightclub, where energetic music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable evenings.
Ballygrant Inn
79.1 km
A cozy family-run inn on Islay offering hearty local cuisine, an award-winning whisky bar, and comfortable rooms for exploring the Hebridean island.
Bar Am Praban
82.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality at Bar Am Praban, a premier bar and restaurant on the scenic Isle of Skye.
DUFFIE'S BAR
89.6 km
Discover the cozy ambiance of Duffie's Bar in Bowmore, Isle of Islay; a perfect spot for whisky lovers and relaxation amidst beautiful surroundings.
The Lochside Hotel & Restaurant
89.6 km
Discover the beauty and flavors of the Isle of Islay at The Lochside Hotel & Restaurant, where comfort meets local charm in a stunning setting.
Club 69 Paisley
91.7 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
Fantoosh
92.1 km
A lively, intimate nightclub in Paisley’s heart, perfect for energetic nights with friends and local beats.
Vienna's Nightclub
92.1 km
Experience Paisley’s vibrant nightlife at Vienna's Nightclub, where energetic music and lively crowds come alive every weekend.
Gabbro Bar
94.3 km
Experience the cozy charm of Gabbro Bar in Broadford, Isle of Skye, with a delightful selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
