Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for your trip to the Northern Highlands. Check transport options, review the strict bag policies, and plan your time around the falconry displays.
Getting there
Travel options to Golspie.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive north from Inverness on the A9 route | 1 hour 15 minutes | Cost of fuel | Ample free parking is available on-site for up to 200 vehicles. |
| Tour: Guided mini-coach tours departing from central Inverness | 8-11 hours (round trip) | £50 - £90+ | Day tours frequently combine Dunrobin Castle with stops at Loch Fleet, John O'Groats, or the Falls of Shin. |
| Train: ScotRail Far North Line from Inverness to Dunrobin Castle station | 2 hours 15 minutes | £15 - £25 | The station is a request stop located just 1,500 feet from the castle gates. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is between May and September. The weather is warmest for exploring the gardens. The estate is closed entirely from November through March.
Arrive by 11:00 am if you want to see the morning falconry display at 11:30 am. Afternoon visitors should aim for the 2:30 pm show.
What to bring
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There are 200 free parking spaces available on-site.
The car park also accommodates up to four large coaches.
How the day runs
Suggested timings for your visit.
Arrive early to tour the interior before the first bird of prey show.
- Arrival
Park your car and leave large bags in the boot or cloakroom.
- Castle Interiors
Walk through the Drawing Room, Library, and Seamstress's Room.
- Head Outside
Walk down to the formal gardens and find a spot on the lawn.
- Falconry Display
Watch the resident expert fly golden eagles and peregrine falcons.
- Victorian Museum
View the Pictish stones and taxidermy collection.
Use the ScotRail Far North Line for a scenic arrival.
- Depart Inverness
Take the northbound train toward Wick/Thurso.
- Request Stop
Alight at Dunrobin Castle station. You must ask the conductor to stop.
- Castle Tour
Walk 1,500 feet to the gates and explore the historic rooms.
- Afternoon Falconry
Watch the second bird of prey demonstration in the gardens.
What to bring
Pack a windproof and waterproof jacket. The coastal Highlands weather changes rapidly. Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the extensive woodland and formal parterre gardens. If you visit in July or August, bring midge repellent.
Do not bring large bags. Bags, backpacks, and camera bags larger than A4 size (210mm x 297mm) are strictly prohibited inside. Use a small purse or leave bulky items in your vehicle. A cloakroom is available for items you cannot carry.
Easiest way to do it
Dunrobin Castle and Easter Ross Small Group Tour from Inverness
9 h 4.9 (9)
- Air conditioning as standard
- Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
- The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
From$74per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long is the drive from Inverness?
The drive takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. You will travel 50 miles north along the A9 road.
Can I bring a pushchair?
Pushchairs are permitted in the grounds. You must leave them in the cloakroom before taking the upstairs castle tour.
Is there parking for coaches?
Yes. The free on-site car park holds up to 200 cars and four coaches.