Destination Dunnottar Castle: A Landmark on the Scottish Coast
Dunnottar Castle is a medieval ruined fortress perched on a rocky promontory on the northeast coast of Scotland. The castle has played a significant role in Scottish history, most notably as the hiding place for the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell's army in the 17th century. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction offering spectacular views of the sea and surrounding area.
The castle was probably founded in the early Middle Ages, but most of the surviving buildings date from the 15th and 16th centuries. The castle includes a 14th-century keep, a 16th-century palace building, a gatehouse, a chapel, a blacksmith's shop, and other outbuildings. The castle was besieged and captured several times, including by Vikings, the English, and the Jacobites. Abandoned in the 18th century, the castle fell into ruin. It was restored in the 20th century and is now open to the public.
Pictures Dunnottar Castle:
The castle can be reached via a narrow path that branches off from the coastal road. The castle is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is £11.50 for adults and £5 for children. There is a parking lot nearby and a gift shop at the ticket office. The castle is not wheelchair accessible and requires a certain level of physical fitness to navigate the steep stairs and uneven paths. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing as it can often be windy and rainy.
The castle is an ideal place for history and nature lovers who want to learn more about Scotland's past and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The castle also provides a backdrop for various events, such as theater performances, weddings, or photo shoots. The castle is also a popular filming location for movies and TV series, such as Braveheart, Hamlet, or Game of Thrones.
Getting to Dunnottar Castle
Here are a few options for getting to Dunnottar Castle from Glasgow or Edinburgh:
From Glasgow:
Train: Take a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Stonehaven. This journey typically takes around 1.5 hours. From Stonehaven, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the castle.
Pros: Comfortable and relaxing, especially for longer distances.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options and requires a change in Stonehaven.
Car: The drive from Glasgow to Dunnottar Castle takes approximately 2.5 hours. The A90 is the main road that will take you there.
Pros: Flexible, you can make stops along the way and plan your own route.
Cons: Can take longer depending on traffic and requires parking at the castle.
Bus: There are bus services from Glasgow to Stonehaven, from where you can take a taxi or bus to the castle.
Pros: Budget-friendly option.
Cons: Can take longer than other options and may require multiple changes.
From Edinburgh:
Train: Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Stonehaven. The journey takes about 2 hours. From Stonehaven, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the castle.
Pros: Comfortable and relaxing, especially for longer distances.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options and requires a change in Stonehaven.
Car: The drive from Edinburgh to Dunnottar Castle takes around 2 hours. The A1 and A90 are the main roads that will take you there.
Pros: Flexible, you can make stops along the way and plan your own route.
Cons: Can take longer depending on traffic and requires parking at the castle.
Bus: There are bus services from Edinburgh to Stonehaven, from where you can take a taxi or bus to the castle.
Pros: Budget-friendly option.
Cons: Can take longer than other options and may require multiple changes.
Additional Tips:
Best time to visit: The summer months are ideal, but the castle has its charm in other seasons as well.
Admission: There is an admission fee to enter the castle.
Parking: There is a car park at the castle, but it can get busy during peak times.
Public transport: Check the latest timetables and prices for trains and buses.
Accommodation: There are various accommodation options near the castle, from hotels to self-catering apartments.
Car Rental for Dunnottar Castle:
A rental car is recommended for Scotland. You can easily find rental cars in Inverness, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.
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Destination Dunnottar Castle – A Summary
Dunnottar Castle undoubtedly stands as one of Scotland’s most spectacular castles. Perched precariously on a rocky promontory and cradled by the North Sea, its sheer grandeur is simply breathtaking. This historic ruin, steeped in centuries of drama and intrigue, has captivated countless visitors.
What sets Dunnottar Castle apart:
Breathtaking Location: The castle's dramatic coastal setting and its elevated position on the cliffs create an unforgettable experience.
Rich History: With a turbulent past, the castle has been the stage for numerous historical events, including the daring rescue of the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell's forces.
Picturesque Ruins: The well-preserved ruins allow visitors to envision life within the castle's ancient walls.
Diverse Activities: Beyond exploring the ruins, visitors can wander through the surrounding landscape, join guided tours, or simply soak up the atmosphere.
Dunnottar Castle: Final Thoughts
Dunnottar Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for history, architecture, and the raw beauty of Scotland. The fusion of stunning natural surroundings, captivating history, and the opportunity to explore an authentic castle ruin creates a truly memorable experience.
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