Dunnottar Castle: where Scotland's crown jewels were smuggled out

Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea, offers one of Scotland’s most intriguing tales of resilience and cunning. This fortress, near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire, has witnessed centuries of turmoil, from Viking raids to civil war conflicts. Its most famous moment, though, came in the 1650s when it became the unlikely guardian of Scotland’s Crown Jewels, the Honours of Scotland, during Oliver Cromwell’s invasion. The castle’s history is a blend of hard fact and romanticised legend, but even the undisputed truths paint a picture of defiance and survival.

Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle’s story begins long before the Keith family built its sturdy medieval keep in the 14th century. Archaeological evidence suggests that the site was fortified by the Picts as early as 5000 BC, making it one of Scotland’s oldest known defensive locations. Its name, derived from the Pictish word “dun” meaning fort, hints at its ancient origins. By the 9th century, it had become a royal stronghold, though it fell victim to Viking attacks, including the one that killed King Donald II in 900 AD. Over the centuries, the castle passed through multiple hands, including English forces during the Wars of Independence, before becoming the seat of the powerful Keith family.

The mid-17th century brought Dunnottar its moment in the spotlight. After Cromwell’s forces invaded Scotland, the Honours of Scotland - the crown, sceptre and sword of state - were sent to the castle for safekeeping. In 1651, Cromwell’s army laid siege to Dunnottar, determined to seize these symbols of Scottish sovereignty. For eight gruelling months, George Ogilvy and his small garrison held out, despite heavy bombardment and dwindling supplies. To protect the Honours, a daring plan was devised to smuggle them out of the castle. According to documented accounts, the jewels were hidden under a servant woman’s clothing and spirited away to safety. They remained hidden for years, ensuring Scotland’s symbols of monarchy survived Cromwell’s rule.

After the siege, Dunnottar Castle continued to play a role in Scotland’s tumultuous history. It served as a prison for Covenanters in the late 17th century, many of whom perished in its dank, overcrowded cells. By the 18th century, its strategic importance had waned, and it fell into ruin. Today, visitors can explore its crumbling walls, imagining the dramatic events that played out within them.

Key Takeaways

• Dunnottar Castle was a key defensive site for millennia, with origins dating back to Pictish times.
• In 1651, the Honours of Scotland were smuggled out of the castle during an eight-month siege by Cromwell’s forces.
• The Keith family, hereditary Earls Marischal, were responsible for much of the castle’s medieval construction.
• Dunnottar also served as a grim prison for Covenanters, many of whom died within its walls.
• The ruins offer stunning coastal views and a tangible sense of Scotland’s turbulent past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened at Dunnottar Castle?
Dunnottar Castle played a pivotal role in Scotland’s history. It safeguarded the Honours of Scotland during Cromwell’s invasion in the 1650s and endured an eight-month siege. It also served as a prison for Covenanters in the late 17th century. The castle’s history spans from Pictish times to its decline in the 18th century.

Can you visit Dunnottar Castle?
Yes, Dunnottar Castle is open to visitors and is a popular stop on the Highland castle trail. The ruins are accessible via a steep climb, offering breathtaking sea views. Check the official website for up-to-date visiting hours, ticket prices and accessibility information.

While Dunnottar Castle is sometimes featured in lists of haunted castles, its true appeal lies in its documented history. From ancient Picts to Cromwell’s forces, this fortress has been a silent witness to Scotland’s darkest and most dramatic moments.