Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle and Gardens is just a mile from the village of Golspie in East Sutherland on the A9, making it an ideal day trip from Inverness and a great stop on the North Coast 500.

Just over an hour north of Inverness lies the beautiful Dunrobin Castle. It makes the perfect day trip from Inverness. Why not explore more of the Scottish North East coast and the first leg of the North Coast 500? This Scottish castle and stately home is the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland and the Clan Sutherland.

Dunrobin Castle’s origins lie in the Middle Ages. Most of the incredible structures of the present building and the intricate gardens were added between 1835 and 1850. Some of the original building is visible within the interior courtyard. The expansions and alterations make it the largest house in the north of Scotland with 189 rooms.

Facilities

The Castle Tea Room offers light meals, snacks and hot and cold refreshments. The Castle Gift Shop stocks a wide range of gifts, books and souvenirs, many based on the Dunrobin Castle collections. Toilets, baby changing facilities and free parking are also available.

Museum

The Dunrobin Museum was built in 1732 as a summer house and extended in 1878 by the 3rd Duke of Sutherland. Today it houses a collection of hunting trophies and artefacts brought back from around the world by the Sutherland family, alongside an important collection of local Pictish stones.

Falconry

A visit to Dunrobin Castle now includes birds of prey flying demonstrations at 11.30am and 2.30pm on the Castle lawn (please keep updated with Dunrobin Castle’s social media for any changes). Learn more about birds of prey as well as the ancient art of falconry.

Gardens

The gardens were laid out in 1850 by architect Sir Charles Barry, who was responsible for the Victorian extension to the castle and who designed the Houses of Parliament. Inspiration came from the Palace of Versailles in Paris, and they have changed little in the 150 years since they were planted, although new plants are constantly being introduced.

Interactive Guides

Using interactive smart guides, visitors can explore Dunrobin Castle at their own pace and uncover its hidden stories through expert narration, discovering the lives, legends and heritage of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. The guides offer a deeper insight into the Castle, its history and the people who shaped it.

Alongside the adult guide, younger visitors can enjoy their own interactive adventure, following animated characters Rumble the Wolf, Lady Whiskerfluff the Cat and Much the Goat as they journey through the Castle. Packed with colourful content, engaging activities and exciting discoveries, the children's guide brings the history of Dunrobin Castle to life in a fun and memorable way.

Adult guides are £3.50, children's guides are £2.50, and families (2 adults and 2 children) can enjoy a discounted family price of £10. The smart guides are available in English, French, German and Italian.

Good to know before you go:

Dunrobin Castle sits just off the A9 on the North Coast 500 route, making it easily accessible for those exploring the Highlands. Dunrobin Castle offers free, ample parking, making it an easy and convenient stop for visitors. There's also a Coffee Wagon in the car park throughout the season, perfect for those looking for a coffee or light refreshment or a break on their NC500 journey.

Visitors can book their ticket ahead and save time on arrival via the Dunrobin Castle website. 

Please note that due to the historic nature of the castle, there is no disabled access. However, if you get in touch prior to arrival, transport down to the gardens can be arranged for those who are unable to make the walk on foot. 

Dogs are not permitted (except guide dogs) in the castle or the gardens due to the falconry, as the safety of our guests and birds is our top priority.

Dunrobin Castle is also easily accessible by public transport from Inverness. Regular bus services stop in the nearby village of Golspie, while Dunrobin Castle has its own railway station on the Far North Line. Please note that Dunrobin Castle Station is a request stop.