Dunvegan Castle Tours and Activities

Dunvegan Castle which includes tranquil scenes, a festival and heritage architecture
Dunvegan Castle featuring general coastal views, heritage architecture and tranquil scenes
Dunvegan Castle featuring general coastal views, heritage architecture and château or palace
Dunvegan Castle showing a bay or harbour and general coastal views
Dunvegan Castle featuring a castle, heritage elements and general coastal views


Set on a basalt outcrop overlooking Loch Dunvegan, this historic fortress has been home to the chiefs of a prominent Highland clan for eight centuries.

Dunvegan Castle is one of the most iconic attractions on the island. Its image can be seen on postcards and promotional materials for Skye. Discover oil paintings and precious heirlooms and take boat trips out on to the loch.

Most of the current structure is the result of a 19th-century restoration. The family residence of the chiefs of Clan MacLeod, this fortress is said to be one of the oldest castles in Scotland to be continuously occupied by the same family. In 1933, the then chief of the clan opened up his home to the public.

Explore the castle interior and examine many of the fascinating items on show. Survey a collection of portraits and oil paintings, including the famous Fairy Flag. This delicate silk banner dates from between the 4th and 7th centuries and was said to provide power to the MacLeod clan when unfurled during battles.

Marvel at the dazzling silverware and swords belonging to the clan and inspect rare historical objects, including a waistcoat and a lock of hair, both thought to belong to Bonnie Prince Charlie. Also of note is the Dunvegan Cup, a drinking bowl that dates back to the Middle Ages.

Wander around the formal gardens, where a range of pretty flowering plants sprout around ponds and streams. Boat trips also depart from the pier down by the lakeshore. Enjoy a romantic private cruise with a loved one or fish for pollock, mackerel or coalfish during a fishing excursion. Seal-spotting excursions also take place on the loch, allowing participants to observe the resident seal colony close up.

Dunvegan Castle is located in northwest Skye, about 1 mile (2 kilometers) north of Dunvegan village. The Castle and Gardens are open daily from 1st April to 15th October 10am to 5.30pm (last entry 5pm), and an admission fee is required to enter. From 16th October to 31st March – open for Groups by appointment on weekdays only. The Castle and Gardens are closed Christmas and New Year.

Boat trips are weather dependent, but usually run between late March and late September.

Plan a trip to see Dunvegan Castle

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Best Lodging Options Near Dunvegan Castle

The Tables Guest House

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Minnies Rooms

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Atholl House Skye

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Dunvegan Camping Pods

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Skye Lodge

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The Tide B&B

The Tide B&B

3.5 out of 5
THE TIDE, Dunvegan, Scotland
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Cozy Seaside Retreat in Colbost Isle of Skye

Cozy Seaside Retreat in Colbost Isle of Skye

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Cosy Sea View Skye Cottage for 6

Cosy Sea View Skye Cottage for 6

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Hame Hotel

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dunvegan Castle

When visiting Dunvegan Castle, don't miss the chance for a relaxing stroll through its beautiful grounds, where scenic walks abound. Outdoor adventures await nearby, making it an ideal spot for golf enthusiasts. Explore the best attractions in the area while soaking in the rich history of Dunvegan Castle itself, ensuring a memorable experience during your vacation in Scotland.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit the Skye Silver Gift Shop, located 3.2km from Dunvegan Castle, or explore The Shilasdair Shop, just 9.7km away. If you're up for a drive, check out Uig Pottery, located 13.2km from the castle for more artisanal treasures.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Skeabost Golf Course, perfect for a round of golf amidst nature, just 16.1km from Dunvegan Castle. For thrill-seekers, A.C.E Target Sports Skye, located 20.9km away, offers engaging sports activities. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Quiraing Walk Trail, 27.4km away, for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

Dunvegan Castle offers a rich history and stunning gardens to explore. Enjoy guided tours of the historic castle, marvel at the beautiful grounds, and embark on a thrilling boat trip to spot seals around the nearby islands. Engage in local storytelling to immerse yourself in Scottish culture.

Nightlife

Explore the enchanting atmosphere at Dunvegan Castle with evening ghost tours that delve into its rich history. For a cozy vibe, visit the nearby Old School Café for local brews and delightful snacks, or check out the local pubs for traditional music and a warm Scottish welcome.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dunvegan Castle

While visiting Dunvegan Castle in Scotland, explore stunning local attractions like the picturesque beaches, historic lighthouses, and breathtaking highland scenery. Don't miss the enchanting gardens surrounding the castle and take some time to enjoy the views of Loch Dunvegan. With various outdoor experiences available, Dunvegan Castle is an ideal spot for those seeking beauty and history, all within a short distance from the castle itself.

  • Claigan Coral Beach: This stunning beach, located 6.4km from Dunvegan Castle, features unique coral-like sand and breathtaking views of the turquoise waters. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while soaking in the serene beach vibes.
  • Neist Point Lighthouse: Situated 12.9km away, this historic lighthouse offers a glimpse into maritime history. The surrounding cliffs provide dramatic views of the coastline, making it a cultural gem for photography and exploration.
  • Talisker Beach: Located 19.3km from the castle, Talisker Beach boasts impressive rock formations and a rugged shoreline. It’s an ideal spot for beach lovers seeking a more wild and natural coastal experience.

Best time to go to Dunvegan Castle

The best time to visit Dunvegan Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October50.4°F (10.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
November46.2°F (7.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December43.2°F (6.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dunvegan Castle

For a budget-friendly visit to Dunvegan Castle, consider traveling in the cheaper months of January, February, and November, when accommodation rates drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can yield significant savings. Wednesdays are the most economical nights to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Utilize Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and sort by price to snag the best deals. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can also help you save money on your trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dunvegan Castle are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dunvegan Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dunvegan Castle is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dunvegan Castle is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Dunvegan Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.