Eilean Donan Castle: Scotland’s Most Recognised Castle

The 13th century Eilean Donan Castle was built on an island in Loch Duich, Scotland.

Eilean Donan is one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, and it probably appears on more shortbread tins and calendars than any other. 

It is, without doubt, a Scottish icon and certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Highlands.

It’s strategically located on its own little island and surrounded by the majestic splendour of the forested mountains of Kintail - its setting is truly breathtaking.

Today, visitors can explore the various rooms and exhibitions, including the Banqueting Hall, the Kitchen, and the Jacobite Room.

The first fortified structure was built in the 13th century as a defensive measure, protecting the lands of Kintail against the Vikings who controlled much of the North of Scotland between 800 and 1266.

Around the end of the 14th century the area of the castle was reduced to about a fifth of its original size and, although the reason is unclear, it probably relates to the number of men required to defend the structure.

By the 16th century, a hornwork was added to the east wall to offer a firing platform for the newly introduced cannons.

Eilean Donan played a role in the Jacobite risings of the 17th and 18th centuries, which ultimately culminated in the castle’s destruction.

In 1719, the castle was garrisoned by 46 Spanish soldiers who were supporting the Jacobites.

They had established a magazine of gunpowder, and were awaiting the delivery of weapons and cannon from Spain.

The English Government caught wind of the intended uprising and sent three heavily armed frigates The Flamborough, The Worcester, and The Enterprise to quell matters.

The bombardment of the castle lasted three days, though met with limited success due to the enormity of the castle walls, which in some places are up to 14 feet thick.

Finally, Captain Herdman of The Enterprise sent his men ashore and over-whelmed the Spanish defenders.

Following the surrender, the government troops discovered the magazine of 343 barrels of gunpowder which was then used to blow up what had remained from the bombardment.

For the best part of 200 years, the stark ruins of Eilean Donan lay neglected, abandoned and open to the elements, until Lt Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap bought the island in 1911.

Along with his Clerk of Works, Farquar Macrae, he dedicated the next 20 years of his life to the reconstruction of Eilean Donan, restoring her to her former glory.

The castle was rebuilt according to the surviving ground plan of earlier phases and was formally completed in the July of 1932.

Since then, it has made several appearances in films, beginning with Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1948 and The Master of Ballantrae in 1953.

It also featured in the opening episode of the 1976 TV series, The New Avengers.

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.

In short, there are numerous reasons why Eilean Donan enjoys such romantic and iconic status in the hearts of our nation and its visitors, but to understand what’s at its core you have to go and discover it for yourself.

The castle is located just off the A87 road between Kyle of Lochalsh and Dornie, and is easily accessible by car or bus.

Someone who recently visited the castle said: “We stopped in at Eilean Donan Castle on our way to Skye and so were so glad we did. It is truly stunning both inside and out.

”We felt it was good value for money, it was £3 for parking which we have found is quite reasonable for a tourist attraction up north compared to other places.

”We were also given 2 option, pay £11 to go in castle or £3 to explore the grounds outside. We chose to go in and defo made the right choice, the staff were all friendly and very helpful.

”There was a lot to take in and see, just a shame couldn’t take photographs inside.”

If you’d like to visit the castle, the address is: Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DX.

Check out more photos below, via their official Facebook page.

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