Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

Any visit to the Isle of Skye would be incomplete without savouring the wealth of history offered by Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. Built on a rocky outcrop on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years.

On display are many fine oil paintings and clan treasures, the most famous of which is the Fairy Flag. Legend has it that this sacred Banner has miraculous powers and when unfurled in battle, the clan MacLeod would invariably defeat their enemies. Another of the castle's great treasures is the Dunvegan Cup, a unique 'mazer' dating back to the Middle Ages. It was gifted by the O'Neils of Ulster as a token of thanks to one of the clan's most celebrated Chiefs, Sir Rory Mor, for his support of their cause against the marauding forces of Queen Elizabeth I of England in 1596.

Currently visitors can enjoy tours of an extraordinary castle and Highland estate steeped in history and clan legend, delight in the beauty of its formal gardens, take a boat trip onto Loch Dunvegan to see the seal colony, charter one of its traditionally built clinker boats for a fishing trip or Loch cruise, stay in one of its charming holiday cottages, enjoy an appetising meal at the MacLeods Table Cafe or browse in one of its four shops offering a wide choice to suit every taste. There is a wealth of activities in the area ranging from walking, fishing and sightseeing to fine local cuisine, arts and craft and camping at the estate's Glenbrittle Campsite at the foot of the majestic Cuillin mountain range.

Features: Idyllic lochside scenery forms a dramatic backdrop to the 5 acres of formal gardens which were laid out in the 18th century. The unforgettable seal boat trips departing from the castle jetty to the Loch Dunvegan seal colony was voted one of the Best UK Days Out by The Sunday Times Travel Magazine.

Visitor Opening TimesBack to top

Summer: 1 April–15 October. daily: 10am–5.30pm. Last admission 5pm. Winter: 16 October– 31 March. Open by appointment weekdays only. Castle & Gardens closed 20 December– 3 January.

Please contact the property for up to date opening times

Film LocationsBack to top

Dunvegan Castle provides a unique and breathtaking location for your production on the Isle of Skye. Whether it is film, TV or advertising, numerous companies have found what they are looking for at Dunvegan. These productions range from the 1986 cult classic Highlander starring Christopher Lambert to the BBC series Mountain presented by Griff Rhys Jones. More recently, Columbia Pictures filmed Made of Honour starring Patrick Dempsey and Michelle Monaghan at the castle with some of our staff acting as extras.

With our extensive knowledge and unrivalled network of local contacts, we can provide logistical support and help with location scouting on the island. For further information on our services, please contact MacLeod Estate Office.

Groups and special visitsBack to top

Home of the Chiefs of the Clan MacLeod. Dunvegan's continuing importance as a custodian of the Clan spirit is epitomised by the famous Fairy Flag, whose origins are shrouded in mystery but whose ability to protect both Chief and Clan is unquestioned. Tea/coffee/lunch available in the restaurant (dinners available in Castle following forward planning and organisation). During main season, Mid March - end October, restaurant open daily, prior booking not required.

Wedding FacilitiesBack to top

Set in the stunning scenery of the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle is one of Scotland's premier venues for weddings where fine cuisine and a warm Highland welcome combine to offer the very best in the region.

Corporate FunctionsBack to top

Set in the stunning scenery of the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle & Gardens is one of Scotland's premier venues for events where fine cuisine and a warm Highland welcome combine to offer the very best in the region.