Discover the Majestic Urquhart Castle
Experience the enchanting history and breathtaking views at Urquhart Castle, a must-visit gem on the shores of Loch Ness.
Nestled on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is a historic gem that offers breathtaking views, rich history, and a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past. With its stunning scenery and captivating stories, this castle is a must-visit for tourists exploring the Highlands.
A brief summary to Urquhart Castle
- Inverness, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XJ, GB
- +441456450551
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don't forget your camera; the views of Loch Ness are stunning and make for great photographs.
- Take advantage of the guided tours available to learn more about the castle's rich history.
- Check the weather before your visit, as the Highland weather can change quickly.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Inverness, take the A82 southbound towards Fort William. After approximately 23 miles, look for the sign for Drumnadrochit and take the B862 exit. Follow the B862 for about 2 miles, and you will find signs directing you to Urquhart Castle. The castle is located on the shores of Loch Ness, and there is parking available on-site. The parking fee is around £4.00 for the day.
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Public Transportation
To reach Urquhart Castle using public transport from Inverness, take the city bus service (number 19) that heads towards Drumnadrochit. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Drumnadrochit, the castle is approximately a 20-minute walk from the bus stop. Follow the signs towards the castle, and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance as services may vary.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a taxi from Inverness to Urquhart Castle. The ride will take about 30 minutes and will cost approximately £30-£40 depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if you're traveling in a group or with heavy luggage.
Discover more about Urquhart Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Drumdevan Country House, Inverness
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Historic Victorian charm meets tranquil Highland surroundings just minutes from Inverness and Loch Ness.
Highland Scenery
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Lochardil House
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Torrish at Ness Walk
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Experience the essence of Scottish cuisine at Torrish at Ness Walk, where fine dining meets breathtaking views of the River Ness.
Ness Walk Hotel - 5 Star Luxury Inverness Hotel
20.5 km
Elegant 5-star luxury on the River Ness, blending historic charm with modern comfort and acclaimed Highland dining.
Great War Memorial
20.8 km
A solemn red sandstone Celtic cross on the banks of the River Ness, honouring Inverness’s fallen from the World Wars and later conflicts.
Rowan Guest House Group Ltd
20.9 km
Comfortable and welcoming bed and breakfast in Inverness, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands with quality breakfast and friendly hospitality.
Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel Inverness
20.9 km
Elegant riverside boutique hotel in Inverness offering stylish rooms, award-winning dining, and a gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
Rocpool Reserve Hotel
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A stylish 5-star boutique hotel in Inverness offering luxurious rooms, acclaimed dining, and a serene city-centre retreat.
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
21.1 km
Experience the charm of the Scottish Highlands at Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments, your ideal base in Inverness for relaxation and adventure.
Ness Bank Church
21.1 km
A stunning Gothic Revival church on the River Ness, blending rich history, striking architecture, and vibrant community life in Inverness.
Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
21.2 km
Elegant riverside hotel blending historic charm with modern spa comforts in the heart of Inverness.
Highland Historical Home
21.2 km
Discover the Highland Historical Home in Inverness, where Scottish heritage meets modern comfort in a charming holiday apartment rental.
Urquhart's Restaurant
21.2 km
Discover the flavors of Scotland at Urquhart's Restaurant, where British and European cuisine meet warm Highland hospitality.
Start/Finish of Great Glen way, Inverness
21.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Loch Ness Viewpoint
1.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views over the legendary Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands from the serene Strone viewpoint.
The Loch Ness Centre
2.6 km
Explore the legend and science of Nessie at the immersive Loch Ness Centre, the birthplace of the world-famous monster myth.
Loch Ness Hub & Travel
2.6 km
Community-owned visitor centre offering expert local advice, tours, bike hire, and authentic Highland crafts in the heart of Drumnadrochit.
Great Glen Distillery - Scotlands Smallest Craft Distillery
2.6 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest craft distillery nestled by Loch Ness, where local botanicals and Highland water create award-winning gin.
Nessieland
2.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish charm and stunning Loch Ness views at this cozy Highland lodge in Drumnadrochit.
Loch Ness Statue
5.4 km
Discover the striking steel statue of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, set against the breathtaking Highland landscape near Inverness.
Loch Ness Alpacas
6.9 km
Meet and trek with friendly alpacas on the scenic shores of Loch Ness for a unique Highland adventure.
Falls of Foyers
8.9 km
Discover the dramatic 140-foot Falls of Foyers, a scenic waterfall and woodland walk on Loch Ness’s southern shore near Inverness.
Dores Beach
9.2 km
Discover stunning views, tranquil walks, and a touch of Loch Ness mystery at Dores Beach near Inverness.
RSPB Loch Ruthven
10.7 km
A serene Highland loch renowned for rare Slavonian Grebes, peaceful trails, and rich wildlife in a protected natural setting.
Lochend beach
11.5 km
Discover the tranquil pebble shores and breathtaking vistas of Lochend Beach, a serene Highland escape at the edge of legendary Loch Ness.
Highland Discovery Transfers and Tours
13.3 km
Personalized private tours and transfers through the Scottish Highlands with expert local guide Andrew Mason.
Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival
13.7 km
Experience Scotland’s beloved family-friendly music and arts festival set in the stunning Highlands, blending culture, community, and live performances.
Loch Ness by Jacobite - Dochgarroch Lock
14.7 km
Experience legendary Loch Ness from Dochgarroch Lock with award-winning cruises, rich history, and Highland hospitality just minutes from Inverness.
Reelig Glen
14.8 km
Discover towering ancient trees, serene woodland trails, and historic charm in the enchanting Reelig Glen near Inverness.
Essential places to dine
The Lewiston
1.9 km
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Fiddlers Highland Restaurant
2.6 km
Cozy Highland dining with authentic Scottish flavors and an award-winning whisky selection in the heart of Loch Ness country.
The Dores Inn
9.2 km
A welcoming Highland pub with stunning Loch Ness views, hearty fare, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for soaking in Scotland’s natural beauty.
The Struy Inn (Casa Mia)
17.2 km
A cozy 19th-century Highland inn offering intimate dining with Scottish-Argentinian fusion cuisine and a welcoming bar by the wood stove.
Downright Gabbler
17.7 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with exceptional food, immersive storytelling, and cozy apartments in the heart of Beauly.
Loch Ness House Beefeater
19.5 km
Family-friendly steakhouse and bar & grill in Inverness offering hearty British classics and a welcoming atmosphere.
Black BX Food
19.6 km
Casual canal-side eatery in Inverness serving fresh, tasty meals with vegan options and a friendly vibe.
Contrast Brasserie Inverness
20.9 km
Stylish riverside dining with fresh, modern Scottish and Pan-Asian cuisine in Inverness’s renowned Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel.
The Waterside Restaurant
21.0 km
Scenic riverside dining in Inverness serving sustainable, locally sourced Scottish cuisine with handcrafted spirits from the adjacent distillery.
Tiger on The Wall
21.1 km
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Hou Hou Mei
21.1 km
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Encore
21.2 km
Experience hearty Scottish flavors and warm hospitality at Encore, Inverness’s vibrant restaurant and bar on Young Street.
La Tortilla
21.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
The Kitchen Restaurant
21.3 km
Savor inventive modern British cuisine with stunning River Ness views in a stylish, family-run Inverness restaurant.
Cafe 1
21.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Loch Ness Gifts
2.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and Nessie-themed gifts in the heart of Drumnadrochit, near the legendary Loch Ness.
Great Glen Gifts
2.7 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and Nessie souvenirs at Great Glen Gifts, your charming family-run shop in the heart of Loch Ness country.
Loch Ness Nessie Shop
5.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Nessie souvenirs in a friendly, family-run shop near Loch Ness in Inverness.
Ness Gifts
9.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs at Ness Gifts, a charming boutique in Dores near Loch Ness.
James Pringle Weavers
19.1 km
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Dalneigh Stores
20.3 km
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The Merchant
21.2 km
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Highland House of Fraser
21.3 km
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James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Rouge Boutiques
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The Whisky Shop
21.4 km
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Judith Glue
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GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
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Primark
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Edinburgh Woollen Mill
21.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Witches
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Dows Bar
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The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
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The Wee Bar
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Glenalbyn Bar
21.2 km
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Clachnaharry Inn
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Revolution Inverness
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Lauders
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Caledonian
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The Auctioneers
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Highlander
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Hootananny
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The Malt Room
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R&Bs
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MacCallums Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
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The Ross Shire Club
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The Vault
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
40.1 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Aviemore Inn, the perfect pub and grill in the heart of Aviemore for travelers and locals alike.
Woodshed Bar
41.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
Xplosive Discos
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Uncle Bob's Bar
44.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn, a perfect blend of traditional pub charm and sports excitement.
Aido's bar
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The Play House
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Play House in Nairn, where great drinks and lively entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Seaforth Club
45.0 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
45.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
The Pine Marten Bar
48.1 km
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Roobarb
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Bertie's Bar
72.1 km
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Elsa's Bar
72.1 km
Discover Elsa's Bar in Braemar, a cocktail oasis offering exquisite drinks and a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
