Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw great conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress. Control of the castle passed back and forth between the Scots and English during the Wars of Independence. The power struggles continued, as the Lords of the Isles regularly raided both castle and glen up until the 1500s.
The last of the government troops garrisoned here during the Jacobite Risings blew up the castle when they left. Urquhart’s iconic ruins remain, offering glimpses into medieval times and the lives of its noble residents.
What to see and do
- Admire the strategic setting of the castle, on a rocky promontory with an open outlook up and down Loch Ness
- Soak up the atmosphere of one of Scotland’s most famous lochs
- Take in the Grant Tower (partial access)
- Imagine splendid banquets staged in the Great Hall
- Peer into the gloomy prison cell, said to have held legendary Gaelic bard Dòmhnall Donn
- See the Urquhart Ewer and other medieval artefacts left by castle residents
- View the full-sized trebuchet
- Take our fun fact-finding quiz while exploring the castle (also in French, Gaelic, German, Italian, Scots and Spanish). Available on site
Secure Your Dream Scottish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Scotland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions dampen your adventure. Iconic experiences like exploring Edinburgh Castle, cruising along Loch Ness, or wandering through the mystical Isle of Skye often fill up fast—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Scotland's hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!
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Love Scotland shares the stories, landscapes, and traditions that make Scotland one of the most captivating destinations on earth. From the Highlands to the Hebrides, our team researches and writes about the places, history, and culture that locals treasure most. Join 43,000 readers who receive our free weekly newsletter at lovescotland.substack.com.