Best castles on the NC500 route

Imagine the wind whipping through your hair as the North Sea crashes below you, or the tranquillity of standing in manicured gardens with a soaring turreted castle as your backdrop. The North Coast 500 (NC500) offers some of Scotland’s most atmospheric castles, each with its own story and stunning surroundings. From fairytale fortresses to dramatic coastal ruins, here’s your guide to the best castles along this iconic route.

Best castles on the NC500 route

Dunrobin Castle, near Golspie, is straight out of a storybook. With conical spires rising above the trees and formal gardens that slope gently towards the sea, it’s no surprise this is dubbed the “Fairytale Fortress.” Open from April to October, the castle welcomes visitors from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Tickets cost £14 for adults and £9 for children, and parking is free and plentiful. Inside, you’ll find opulent Victorian interiors, while the falconry displays in the gardens are a must-see. Learn more about this Highland gem in our Dunrobin Castle Highland chateau guide.

For drama and rugged beauty, head to Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched on the cliffs near Wick. These haunting ruins, dating from the 15th and 17th centuries, offer panoramic views of sea and sky that are unforgettable. Park at the Noss Head car park and follow the clearly marked footpath (about a 10-minute walk). Admission is free, although donations are appreciated to help preserve the site. Check out our Castle Sinclair Girnigoe guide for more details.

Further along the route lies the Castle of Mey, the former summer home of the Queen Mother. Nestled in the windswept Caithness countryside, the castle is as charming as it is historic. The gardens, walled to protect against the harsh coastal winds, are a highlight. Open from May to September, visiting hours are from 10:30 am to 4 pm. Tickets are £12 for adults and £6 for children, with ample parking on-site.

If moody lochs and ancient ruins call to you, don’t miss Ardvreck Castle on Loch Assynt. This 16th-century ruin is steeped in legend, from tales of betrayal to whispers of a ghostly dog. There’s no admission fee, and parking is available at laybys along the road. Learn more about its fascinating history in our Ardvreck Castle ruins on Loch Assynt guide.

Lastly, for a bit of a hike and sweeping views, visit Castle Varrich. This small, mysterious ruin near Tongue is accessible via a 30-minute walk from the trailhead, where parking is available. The effort is worth it, as the views over the Kyle of Tongue are breathtaking.

Key Takeaways

• Dunrobin Castle: Open April-October, £14 entry, free parking, falconry displays.
• Castle Sinclair Girnigoe: Free admission, dramatic cliffside views, short walk from car park.
• Castle of Mey: Open May-September, £12 entry, royal charm and walled gardens.
• Ardvreck Castle: Free to visit, haunting lochside ruins with legends to discover.
• Castle Varrich: Scenic hike to stunning views, free parking at the trailhead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many castles are on the NC500? While there are many historic sites along the NC500, the route features a handful of notable castles, including Dunrobin Castle, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, Castle of Mey, Ardvreck Castle, and Castle Varrich.

Which NC500 castle is the best? That depends on your interests. For grandeur and gardens, Dunrobin Castle is unmatched. If you prefer rugged, coastal ruins, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a must. For royal history, the Castle of Mey is your best bet.

The NC500 is a treasure trove of history and beauty. Whether you’re exploring ornate interiors or climbing windswept cliffs to a ruin, these castles promise unforgettable memories. Plan your route, pack your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by Scotland’s past.