Discover the Majestic Urquhart Castle
Explore the historic Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness, a majestic site steeped in Scottish heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Nestled on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is a captivating historical site where tourists can explore ancient ruins, enjoy breathtaking views, and immerse themselves in Scotland's rich heritage. With stunning landscapes and an intriguing history, it's a must-visit for those exploring the Scottish Highlands.
A brief summary to Urquhart Castle
- Inverness, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XJ, GB
- +441456450551
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long queues during peak tourist season.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience and stunning light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle ruins and the surrounding area involves some walking.
- Don't forget to check the weather forecast, as it can change quickly in the Highlands.
Getting There
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Car
If you're travelling by car, start by navigating to the A82 road. From any location in Sutherland, make your way to the A82, which connects Inverness to Fort William. Follow the A82 south towards Inverness. Once you reach the town of Drumnadrochit, look for signs directing you to Urquhart Castle. The castle is located on the western shore of Loch Ness, approximately 2 miles from Drumnadrochit. Expect to pay for parking at the castle grounds. The current parking fee is approximately £5.
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Public Transport
For those using public transport, take a bus to Inverness. Buses operated by companies like Stagecoach connect various towns in Sutherland to Inverness. Once you arrive in Inverness, transfer to a bus heading to Drumnadrochit (the number 919 service is a common option). The bus ride to Drumnadrochit will take about 30-40 minutes. From the Drumnadrochit bus stop, it is a roughly 30-minute walk to Urquhart Castle. Follow the signs towards the castle or use a map application on your phone for precise directions. Alternatively, taxis are available from Drumnadrochit to the castle if you prefer not to walk.
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Taxi
If you're looking for a more direct option, consider taking a taxi from any location in Sutherland directly to Urquhart Castle. Taxis can be booked in advance or found at local taxi ranks. Ensure to confirm the fare before starting your journey. This is a convenient option if you're traveling in a group or with 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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Discover the mesmerizing landscapes of Highland Scenery, a photographer’s dream in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Lochardil House
19.2 km
Historic charm meets peaceful gardens and warm hospitality in this cozy Inverness retreat with excellent dining and modern comforts.
Torrish at Ness Walk
20.5 km
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
21.0 km
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
Discover the gateway to Scotland’s iconic Great Glen Way, where urban charm meets Highland adventure in Inverness.
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
Experience warm Highland hospitality and hearty Scottish cuisine near the legendary Loch Ness at The Lewiston.
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
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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
Authentic Indian and Asian flavors served daily in the heart of Inverness at Tiger on The Wall, Strathness House’s celebrated restaurant.
Hou Hou Mei
21.1 km
Discover Hou Hou Mei, Inverness’s vibrant Asian fusion restaurant blending Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavors with generous vegan options.
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
Experience the best of Highland cuisine with locally sourced dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
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
Discover authentic Scottish weaving heritage and quality textiles at James Pringle Weavers in the historic Holm Woollen Mills, Inverness.
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
21.3 km
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Rouge Boutiques
21.4 km
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The Whisky Shop
21.4 km
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Judith Glue
21.4 km
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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
21.3 km
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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
21.5 km
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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
42.2 km
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
44.9 km
Discover Aido's Bar in Nairn: A cozy pub with a friendly atmosphere, serving a great selection of local ales and spirits.
The Play House
44.9 km
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
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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.
