Dunnottar Castle stands on a rocky headland about 160 feet above the North Sea, in Scotland. It is a clifftop ruin, and the setting is the first thing most visitors remember: the grey walls rise straight out of the cliffs, with the water crashing far below.
The castle is a medieval fortress, and its position explains much of its purpose. Its high, narrow headland made it difficult to approach from land, and the sea on three sides gave it a natural defence. The facts given here note that it once safeguarded the Scottish Crown Jewels from Cromwell, a detail that gives the ruins a dramatic story to go with the views.
What a visit offers
- Clifftop views over the North Sea, which change with the light and weather
- The ruined medieval buildings, to explore at your own pace
- A sense of the castle's strategic setting, looking out from the cliff edge
- A dramatic subject for photography, especially in clear or moody conditions
Because the site is open to the elements, it suits visitors who enjoy walking and fresh air. The cliff paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a sensible choice. Check current arrangements before you travel, as opening times and access can change.
Around the castle
Dunnottar sits on the Aberdeenshire coast in north-east Scotland, which makes it a natural stop for anyone exploring the region's coastline. Pairing a visit with time in the surrounding coastal area lets you see the castle against its wider landscape of cliffs, harbours and open sea.