Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness (Inverness)
13C Castle
Summary
- 13th century buildings (or older)
- Gift shop
- Free car parking (on site)
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Food and Drinks
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Introduction
The ancient fortress dominates a rocky promontory jutting into the deep waters of Loch Ness.
Open all year, Apr-Sep, daily, 9.30-6.00; Oct, 9.30-5; Nov-Mar, daily 9.30-4.30. Closed 25-26 Dec.
History to the present day
Opinions differ as to whether Urquhart Castle was originally the site of a Pictish fort dating back to a visit by St Columba in 597, but there was certainly a Pictish settlement in the area at the time. The first real evidence of anything recognisable as a castle dates back to the years following 1230, when Alexander II crushed a revolt in Moray, to the north, and decided to defend this strategic route.
In 1297 the castle was in English hands loyal to Edward I; and survived a night assault by the Scots. To no avail, because by 1303 it was in Scots hands and under siege by the English, to whom it fell. Later it featured among a handful of castles keeping alive Robert the Bruce's claim to the Scottish Crown.
By the 1390s the focus of conflict had switched. Now it was the Scottish Crown trying to defend itself against incursions from the Macdonalds, the Lords of the Isles, from the west. And again Urquhart Castle was pivotal, with ownership moving back and forth between the two sides for a further 150 years.
The complex interplay of Scottish history led to further conflict around Urquhart Castle in 1513, and in 1545 it was besieged and subsequently plundered by the western clans. Repairs followed, but the castle fell into decline, playing little part in the Civil War in the 1640s. In 1689 Urquhart Castle saw its last action, when a small garrison supporting the Protestant Monarchy of William and Mary held off a much larger Jacobite force. The garrison later left, blowing up much of the castle as they did so; and signs of this can still be seen around the gatehouse.
Food and Drinks
Overlooking Urquhart Castle and mysterious Loch Ness, the café provides the ideal place to relax and enjoy a light snack. Find our more about what's on the Urquhart Castle Cafe Menu.
Other facilities
Nine disabled bays are available alongside the entrance to visitor centre.
The visitor centre is fully accessible, with sound loop facilities, full adapted toilets. Disability buggies are available on request. Paths and viewing points provide improved access to the castle.
Arrival information and how to find us
Address: , Inverness, , United Kingdom
On Loch Ness, near Drumnadrochit on the A82.
