Dunnottar Castle
• Aberdeenshire •
Dunnottar Castle was a medieval fortress that now stands in ruin on the northeastern coast of Scotland. It’s strategic locations and defensive strength meant that it played a prominent role in the 18th century Jacobite risings. It is located about 3 kilometres south of Stonehaven and these days is open to visitors as a popular tourist attraction, after being restored in the 20th century.
The ruins of the castle are spread over 1.4 hectares and are surrounded by steep cliffs. The surviving buildings are largely of the 15th and 16th centuries, but the site is believed to have been fortified in the Early Middle Ages. Dunnottar is best known as the place where the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish crown jewels, were hidden from Oliver Cromwell's invading army in the 17th century.
Dunnottar Castle and the Jacobites
Dunnottar Castle was used by both the Jacobites and the Hanoverians at various times.
In 1689 (during Viscount Dundee's campaign in support of the deposed James VII) the castle was garrisoned for William III and Mary II with Lord Marischal as the appointed captain. Seventeen suspected Jacobites from Aberdeen were seized and held in the fortress for around three weeks, including George Liddell, professor of mathematics at Marischal College.
In the Jacobite Rising of 1715 George Keith, 10th and last Earl Marischal, took an active role with the rebels, leading cavalry at the Battle of Sheriffmuir. After the subsequent abandonment of the rising Lord Marischal fled to the Continent, eventually becoming French ambassador for Frederick the Great of Prussia. He was convicted of treason for his part in the failed Jacobite rising. His estates, including Dunnottar Castle, were seized by the government, and in 1717 the Castle was sold to the York Mining Company. Everything of any value was removed including floors, ceilings and all furniture, leaving just a shell.
Visitor Information
Dunnottar Castle highly recommend walking or cycling to the Castle from the nearby town of Stonehaven as the route is picturesque, interesting and good for your health! If walking from the parking area at the harbour, follow Shorehead to Wallace Wynd, on the right hand side just past the harbour front pubs and then turn left onto Castle Street.
Getting There
Location
Dunnottar Castle,
Stonehaven,
AB39 2TL
What3Words reference
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