Dunrobin Castle: A Majestic Glimpse into Scotland's History
Discover the enchanting Dunrobin Castle, where Scottish history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking gardens come together along the beautiful coastline.
Nestled on the stunning coastline of the Scottish Highlands, Dunrobin Castle is a breathtaking attraction that combines rich history and beautiful gardens. Tourists will be enchanted by its fairy-tale architecture and the stunning views of the North Sea. The castle, which dates back to the 13th century, offers captivating tours that delve into its storied past, from its role as a residence for the Earls of Sutherland to its fascinating artifacts and artworks. The meticulously maintained gardens provide the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls, while the falconry displays offer an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. Don't miss this iconic destination on your Scottish adventure.
A brief summary to Dunrobin Castle & Gardens
- Golspie, GB
- +441408633177
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the best experience, as the gardens are in full bloom and falconry displays are scheduled.
- Take advantage of guided tours to fully appreciate the castle's history and explore areas not accessible to the public.
- Don't forget your camera! The castle and gardens offer numerous picturesque spots perfect for photography.
- Check the castle's official website for any special events or seasonal activities that may enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Thurso, take the A9 road heading south. Continue on the A9 for approximately 35 miles until you reach Golspie. Once in Golspie, follow signs for Dunrobin Castle. The castle is located just off the main road, and there is parking available on-site. The postcode for your GPS is KW10 6SF.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach Dunrobin Castle by bus, you can take the Stagecoach bus service from Thurso to Golspie. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Once you arrive in Golspie, the castle is a short walk from the bus stop. Look for signs directing you to Dunrobin Castle, which is roughly a 15-minute walk. Ensure to check the bus schedule for return trips to Thurso or your next destination.
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Public Transportation (Train)
If you prefer taking the train, you can travel to the nearest station in Dunrobin Castle’s vicinity, which is Golspie railway station. You can catch a train from Inverness to Golspie, which takes about 2 hours. Once you arrive at Golspie station, it's about a 20-minute walk to Dunrobin Castle. Follow the signs or use a map app to navigate from the station to the castle.
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Walking
If you're already in Golspie, walking to Dunrobin Castle is a delightful option. Depending on your starting point in the town, you can easily walk to the castle in about 15-20 minutes. Follow the road signs or use a map application to guide you along the path, which is well-marked.
Discover more about Dunrobin Castle & Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
0.4 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
3.6 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
27.1 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Craig Castle
42.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Craig Castle, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the scenic Cromarty Firth on Scotland’s historic Black Isle.
St. Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
45.6 km
Medieval kirk and rare surviving mercat cross spanning eight centuries of Scottish history.
Sueno's Stone
45.6 km
Scotland's tallest Pictish monument—a 6.5-metre enigma carved with battle scenes and royal ceremony.
Crook of Alves (historical placename)
47.9 km
Discover the Crook of Alves, a cultural landmark in Elgin, where history meets stunning natural beauty in Scotland's captivating landscapes.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
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Walkhighlands
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Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Dingwall Castle Doocot
51.3 km
Explore the historic Dingwall Castle Doocot, a rare surviving tower from a medieval Scottish fortress steeped in centuries of history and conflict.
Spynie Palace
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Lybster Harbour
51.9 km
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Moray Motor Museum
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Lady Hill
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The Dandy Lion Statue
52.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Carn Liath
2.1 km
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Skelbo Castle
8.1 km
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Dornoch Beach
12.2 km
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Dornoch Cathedral
12.3 km
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Co-op Food - Dornoch - St Gilbert Street
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Conveniently located in Dornoch’s Cathedral Square, Co-op Food offers fresh essentials, delivery, and accessibility daily from 7am to 10pm.
The Carnegie Whisky Cellars
12.4 km
Discover rare whiskies and expert tastings in the heart of historic Dornoch at The Carnegie Whisky Cellars.
The Sutherland Show
13.0 km
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The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle
16.4 km
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Tarbat Discovery Centre
18.0 km
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The Glenmorangie Distillery Co
19.0 km
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Tesco Superstore
19.8 km
A modern, accessible supermarket in Tain offering fresh produce, everyday essentials, and community-focused services from 8 AM to 10 PM daily.
Tain Museum
19.9 km
Discover the rich heritage of Easter Ross and Clan Ross at Tain Museum, a charming volunteer-run gem in the Scottish Highlands.
Balblair Distillery
21.0 km
Historic Highland whisky distillery since 1790, offering vintage single malts and warm, intimate tours in scenic Edderton.
Fearn Abbey [Church Of Scotland]
23.6 km
Discover Fearn Abbey, the northernmost Premonstratensian church in Scotland, blending medieval heritage with serene rural beauty near Tain.
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Iron Age Roundhouse
23.9 km
Step back in time at Helmsdale’s Iron Age Roundhouse, a captivating glimpse into ancient Highland life and architecture.
Essential places to dine
Sutherland House (Dornoch) Ltd
12.2 km
Refined Scottish dining in the heart of historic Dornoch, where local flavours meet modern style in a warm, welcoming setting.
Highland Larder
12.3 km
Fresh Scottish seafood served with coastal charm beside Dornoch’s scenic Links Beach car park.
Links House at Royal Dornoch
12.3 km
Luxury boutique hotel at Royal Dornoch with exquisite dining, spa, and world-class golf just steps from the legendary links course.
Coach House Bar & Restaurant
12.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar and restaurant in Dornoch serving fresh, locally sourced Scottish dishes with warm Highland hospitality.
Luigi
12.4 km
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Dornoch Castle Hotel - Whisky Bar & Dining. Takeaway Pizza!
12.4 km
Historic Scottish castle hotel in Dornoch offering luxury stays, fine dining, and an acclaimed whisky bar with private tastings.
Meikle Ferry Station
19.3 km
Historic railway charm meets traditional Scottish fare and cozy lodging near Tain, a welcoming stop on the scenic NC500 route.
Thyme and Plaice
22.8 km
Cozy Helmsdale eatery serving fresh local seafood, hearty dishes, and gluten-free options in a welcoming BYO setting.
The Bannockburn Inn
22.9 km
Experience authentic Highland warmth, comfort, and home-cooked flavors at The Bannockburn Inn in scenic Helmsdale.
The Pier
27.5 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant
36.8 km
A charming Highland farm destination blending fresh local produce, home-cooked meals, and stunning views over the Cromarty Firth.
The Crask Inn
40.3 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
The Captain's Table
40.5 km
Fresh seafood and scenic views meet friendly service at Findhorn’s beloved coastal dining spot.
Kimberley Inn
41.0 km
Cozy waterfront pub and seafood restaurant in Findhorn offering diverse menus, warm ambiance, and stunning bay views.
The Bothy Bistro
41.2 km
Burghead's beloved bistro serving locally sourced Scottish cuisine in an intimate, welcoming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
6.2 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Brora, the perfect stop for all your travel essentials and local products.
Jail Dornoch
12.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and country clothing in a historic 19th-century jail transformed into a charming contemporary shop in Dornoch.
Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
12.6 km
Discover ethically crafted fair trade gifts supporting global artisans in the heart of Dornoch Retail Park.
McRaes of Scotland
35.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and cashmere treasures at McRaes of Scotland, Invergordon’s premier gift shop on High Street.
Tanstar Gifts
35.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique souvenirs at Tanstar Gifts, a charming boutique in the heart of Invergordon’s High Street.
Nisa Local
43.8 km
Explore the charm of Nairn with Nisa Local, your go-to spot for unique gifts, local treats, and everyday essentials.
Grace Lily Lingerie
43.9 km
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On The Upside
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In Stitches
44.0 km
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Caora Air Mara
44.0 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and handmade treasures at Caora Air Mara, Nairn’s beloved artisan shop.
Preloved Designer Fashion Boutique
44.3 km
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KLAS Clothing
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Crafty Wee Birdie
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The Nairn Bookshop
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Bridgemill Direct
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Inver Inn
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Platform 1864
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The Fishertown Inn
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A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
The Ship Inn
35.4 km
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Braemou Inn
43.0 km
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The Clubhouse B&B
44.1 km
Boutique coastal B&B in Nairn offering modern comfort, friendly service, and easy beach access for a peaceful Highland getaway.
Brackla Hotel
44.1 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Albert Inn
44.4 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
The Play House
44.4 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
Aido's bar
44.4 km
Aido's Bar offers a cozy, friendly pub experience in Nairn with local ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Sloe & Steady
45.8 km
Discover Forres’ cozy cocktail haven where creative drinks and a warm atmosphere blend for an unforgettable night out.
Legends
45.8 km
Lively pub with hearty fare, live weekend music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Forres.
Thistle Bar
45.8 km
Cozy and friendly bar on Forres High Street, offering affordable drinks and a warm local atmosphere every day from 11am to 10pm.
The Union Tavern
45.9 km
A cozy Fortrose pub offering local ales, live traditional music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Black Isle.
Brander Arms
48.7 km
A welcoming harbourside pub in Lossiemouth offering friendly service, scenic sea views, and a cozy atmosphere for relaxed drinks.
