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.
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