Eilean Donan Castle

Highland, United Kingdom

Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most recognised castles in Scotland. It is, without doubt, a Scottish icon and certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Highlands. When you first set eyes on it, it is easy to understand why so many people flock to its stout doors year after year. Strategically located on its own little island, overlooking the Isle of Skye, at the point where three great sea-lochs meet, and surrounded by the majestic splendour of the forested mountains of Kintail, Eilean Donan’s setting is truly breath-taking.

Crossing the bridge to today’s castle, the fourth version, you can clearly understand why Bishop Donan chose the tranquil spot back in 634 AD to settle on it and create a monastic cell. The first castle was later established in the 13th century by Alexander II in an effort to help protect the area from Viking incursions. At this stage in history the original castle encompassed the entire island and is believed to have been constructed with seven towers connected by a massive curtain wall. Over the centuries, the castle contracted and expanded for reasons that still remain a mystery to this day, until 1719 when it was involved in one of the lesser known Jacobite uprisings. When the British Government learned that the castle was occupied by Jacobite leaders along with a garrison of Spanish soldiers, three Royal Navy frigates were sent to deal with the uprising. On the 10th of May 1719, the three heavily armed warships moored a short distance off the castle and bombarded it with cannon. With walls of up to 5 metres thick, these cannon had little impact, but eventually the castle was overwhelmed by force. Discovering 343 barrels of gunpowder inside, the Commanding officer gave orders to blow the castle up; following which Eilean Donan lay in silent ruin for the best part of two hundred years.

The castle that visitors enjoy so much today was reconstructed as a family home between 1912 and 1932 by Lt Col John MacRae-Gilstrap, and incorporated much of the ruins from the 1719 destruction. At this point the bridge was added; a structure that is as much a part of the classic image as the very castle itself.

Visitors now have the opportunity to wander round most of the fabulous internal rooms of the castle viewing period furniture, Jacobean artefacts, displays of weapons and fine art. Historical interest and heritage are in abundance with informed guides happy to share a wealth of knowledge. Extremely popular with families, a visit to Eilean Donan promises lots of fun for the kids whether it be swinging a Claymore, spying through the spy holes, lifting the cannon balls, gazing at the fearsome portcullis or exploring the ancient battlements. Wildlife surrounds the island too, with regular viewings of porpoise, dolphins, otters and birdlife. For those feeling particularly romantic, weddings can even be arranged inside the beautiful Banqueting Hall.

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Address

A87, Highland, United Kingdom
See all sites in Highland

Details

Founded: c. 1250
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Julie Depperschmidt (6 months ago)
We arrived just before opening thinking we would just take wide shots of the exterior and move on. We decided to go inside and it was absolutely worth the time and money. Such a stunning location. By the time we left less than an hour later the car parks were overflowing.
Casady F (6 months ago)
We stopped by here on a whim & it was definitely worth it. The castle is beautiful & so well taken care of. There is a lot inside from just information on the history to old photos, documents, and tokens from years past. They do a great job of showing how the castle evolved over the years and even have some display rooms of their best rendition of what it would’ve actually looked like. Also some absolutely stunning views!
Marek Karácsony (6 months ago)
This iconic and renowned castle is truly magnificent. It is surrounded by beautiful nature. I recommend visiting the museum inside the castle, where you can learn about the history and the lives of the people who lived there.
Finding Beauty In the Little Things (6 months ago)
Beautiful castle with historical significance. We did the full tour, which was nice, being able to walk through all of the rooms and imagine the people who used to roam the staircases. The views were very pretty, and the staff all seemed very pleasant. The little gift shop was a great place to buy souvenirs. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit!
Stephanie Harris (6 months ago)
Such a wonderous place, So many beautiful rooms, (no photos taking allowed inside) it has a very beautiful view around the castle. Tickets are first come first serve. You cannot purchase them ahead of time. They do not allow backpacks or bags. They have lockers where you can lock them up. Best bet. Leave them in your car. No photos allowed inside the castle.
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