We've been before several times, and it's always a beautiful place to stop. The castle ruins are worth a look on their own, but the real joy is the views you get up and down the loch. The backdrop of the castle and especially on a gloomy day like when we visited, it sets your imagination on fire.
There's a decent cafe, a good gift shop and nice toilet facilities. All you need really.
This was one of the personal highlights of our trip to Scotland. I love the old castles anyway, but I teach physics and every spring we have the kids build catapults. As an introduction, I show the NOVA episode where they built two catapults and filmed it at Urquhart Castle. Seeing one of the catapults on site was great. I loved being able to wander the castle freely and resting the little informational signs. For me, at least, it was a don't miss opportunity.
The only castle ruin we visited in Scotland. It is hidden from the street side but full view from river. It has a interesting history and you can walk through without a guide. It’s worth the trip!
Stunning castle with views beautiful views to the loch, highly recommend visiting as you can get some amazing views and photos.
Also it is a historic landmark that you can walk within and imagine what life could have been like.
Keep in mind there is a bit of stairs involved in going up and down.
After a fabulously done introduction video you walk outside and quickly realize this isn’t a castle - it’s ruins. While hopefully you realize that before you arrive due to research, it’s still a slight letdown as there isn’t a ton to see, few artifacts, etc. That all being said, it’s a very interesting piece of history, the views are amazing and it’s worth a 90 minute stop or so. There is ample parking, clean toilets and a well appointed gift shop and cafe. Be prepared to take a lot of photos, but just know what you are getting into.
Absolutely stunning, not only the castle but the views as well. We'll worth a visit. Do pre book parking as parking is very limited! I suggest getting a historic Scotland membership if you are going to visit more than one of their properties.
Fantastic castle ruins to explore and I would have loved more time to sit on the beach by the loch. I was on a tour and felt like I could have enjoyed much more time here.
The bathroom and bus area is a bit of a hike uphill after (a quick walk, but not the kind of walk you want to do twice to use the restroom), and there's a large gift shop.
We visited this place on Sept 3rd 2023. Lots of history and a beautiful location. You'll need to purchase the tickets in advance since parking is limited. We were able to get the tickets at the Loch Ness center, as you enter the town. Once in, make sure to first watch the 10mins free movie before you tour the castle.
Stunning castle.. scenic.. beautiful.. we were spellbound and just enjoyed it to the fullest. The view of the loch from the castle is mesmerizing.
One of the coolest castles we’ve seen, may not be as pristine as some across the highlands. Ended up spending a couple hours just wandering around checking stuff out. Plus gotta look for ness while you’re there.
Quite impressive site with the ruins situated at the lake. The remains spark my imagination of the past. The self guided audio is available at a fee. It is a bit windy there, so better bring more clothes for visiting. There are a few illustrations of the castle history and souvenir shop indoor.
The Spiritual Scotsman
+5
Great place to visit. You cannot just turn up in the summer. You should buy tickets at the hub in Drumnadrochit and then pick a time to visit. Great location list of interesting information. Wheelchair accessible and disabled buggies there if needed. Great day out for all the family.
Should be 1 star as we never spotted Nessie. However it was still an excellent day out with great views of Loch Ness and the Castle.
An excellent place to go to and explore our national heritage here in Scotland. Very informative posts around and a short video at the beginning to explain a bit about the history.
Plenty of opportunities to take photographs around and a great place to relax.
The cafe was also a great experience as the local wildlife decided to join my party for lunch 😆
The castle doesn’t disappoint! It’s an easy bus ride from Inverness and then a quick ferry ride across the loch. Make sure to stop at the Clansman Hotel for a pint and a sweet treat!
We had a very nice visit to the castle and the weather was wonderful. All outdoors so that made the experience even better. The staff were amazing. We purchased the membership pass and just pre booked online a few hours ahead. We were able to get parking at the castle.
We drove in a rental from Edinburgh to Inverness, great drive. I recommend getting tickets to the castle in advance, plus you can secure parking at the top. If not you have to park down below and walk up 50 minutes each way. Get food elsewhere, the selection at the castle is ok. Amazing castle, great history, spend the time to read and soak it all in.
Very good. I walk there from Drumnadrochit, because the weather was really nice & I was told it was worth it & it was.
The castle itself is interesting, the view of Loch Ness is superbe. They also have a 10 minute film, to tell you the history of the castle. I went to see it, & it's good & informative.
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