Dunvegan Castle Review: History & Visitor Guide

Another picturesque castle I recommend visiting in the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle has both an impressive castle and garden to wander around. And while I enjoyed both immensely, the seal trip was one of my highlights visiting the Isle of Skye and NC500 (that’s why most of my photos below are of the seal trip).

Once you buy tickets at the entrance, I recommend walking to the ticket hut where they sell the seal trip tickets immediately as slots fill up fast (the hut is behind the castle. It’s also a great place to take photos and there’s a picnic area with views of the bay).

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My Photos of Dunvegan Castle

These photos are free to use, all I ask is you link back to this page as credit.

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History of Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle is the ancestral seat of Clan MacLeod, dramatically perched on a rocky promontory overlooking Loch Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye. It is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, with the MacLeods residing here for over 800 years. The earliest fortifications date to the 13th century, with a curtain wall enclosing the site and a four-storey tower house added in the late 14th century.

Over the centuries, successive clan chiefs expanded and modified the castle, adding the Fairy Tower around 1500 and state apartments in the 17th century. In the 19th century, the 23rd to 25th chiefs undertook a romantic restoration, giving the castle its unified Scottish Baronial appearance with mock battlements and decorative turrets. Today, Dunvegan remains a living family home and a powerful symbol of Highland heritage, legend, and resilience.

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10 Interesting Facts About Dunvegan Castle

1. Dunvegan Castle has been continuously occupied by the MacLeods for over eight centuries.
2. The castle houses the legendary Fairy Flag, believed to bring victory and protection to the clan.
3. The estate covers 42,000 acres, including lochs, moorland, and mountains.
4. The castle’s Victorian façade hides five distinct buildings from different periods.
5. The Dunvegan Cup, a ceremonial vessel from the 15th century, is one of Scotland’s oldest clan relics.
6. The castle was romantically restored between 1840–1850 by architect Robert Brown.
7. Seal boat trips depart daily from the castle jetty between April and September.
8. The Fairy Tower was built by Alasdair Crotach, the 8th chief, around 1500.
9. The castle has appeared in films including Highlander, 47 Ronin, and Macbeth.
10. The current chief, Hugh Magnus MacLeod of MacLeod, is the 30th in the family line.

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Things to See and Do at Dunvegan Castle

• Tour the Castle Interiors
  Explore the Drawing Room, Dining Room, Library, and State Rooms filled with clan portraits, heirlooms, and historical artifacts.
• View the Fairy Flag and Dunvegan Cup
  Marvel at these sacred relics, steeped in legend and clan lore.
• Stroll the Gardens
  Wander through the Water Garden, Walled Garden, Round Garden, and woodland trails — each with seasonal blooms and tranquil views.
• Take a Seal Boat Trip
  Hop aboard a 25-minute boat ride to see the resident seal colony basking on nearby rocks.
• Visit the Gift Shops
  Browse Scottish crafts, books, and MacLeod whisky or gin in one of three on-site shops.
• Relax at MacLeod Tables Café
  Enjoy homemade meals, cakes, and drinks in a scenic setting near the ticket office.
• Join a Guided Tour
  Learn about the castle’s architecture, clan history, and legends from knowledgeable guides.
• Explore the Woodland Walks
  Follow paths through rhododendron groves and native trees with views of Loch Dunvegan.
• Attend Seasonal Events
  Look out for clan gatherings, cultural festivals, and garden tours throughout the year.
• Photograph the Castle from the Jetty
  Capture iconic views of the castle rising above the loch — especially stunning in early morning light.

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Practical Information for Visiting Dunvegan Castle

• Location: Dunvegan, Isle of Skye, IV55 8WF, Scotland
• Opening Times (2025):
  • Castle & Gardens: 1 April – 15 October
  • Daily: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm (last entry 5:00 pm)
• Entry Fees:
  • Adults: £17.00
  • Children (5–15): £12.00
  • Under 5s: Free
  • Family (2 adults + 2 children): £50.00
• Recommended Visit Duration: 2–3 hours
  (Allow extra time for seal trips or garden walks)
• Tickets:
  • Purchase on arrival or online
  • Dunvegan Castle – Official Site
• Parking:
  • Free on-site; overflow available for campervans and coaches
• Accessibility:
  • Castle interiors have stairs and uneven surfaces
  • Gardens mostly accessible; assistance available
• Dogs:
  • Welcome on leads in gardens; assistance dogs only inside castle
• Food & Drink:
  • MacLeod Tables Café open daily during the season
• Toilets:
  • Accessible and baby-changing facilities available
• Transport:
  • Car: 30-minute drive from Portree
  • Bus: Local services to Dunvegan village (1 mi walk)
• Nearby: Coral Beach, Neist Point, Fairy Pools, Talisker Distillery

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