Doune Castle

Overview

There is restricted parking at the castle, and we advise parking in the village car parks where possible. For more information please view the 'Getting here' information. 

Marvel at the splendour of Doune Castle, built as the home of Regent Albany, ‘Scotland’s uncrowned king’. His rich tastes can be seen clearly in the architecture of the medieval courtyard castle.

Today, you can walk in the footsteps of rulers both real and fictional. Doune is a popular filming location and has featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones and Outlander. 

Storm the castle with Terry Jones from Monty Python, and learn about the filming of Outlander with Sam Heughan with our digital audio guide, including in your ticket price (own mobile device required).

To access the guide, bring your own fully charged mobile phone or tablet with internet access to download it on the day. Bring headphones if you can. Alternatively you can pre-load the guide via the URL provided in your ticket confirmation email, as connectivity at the castle is patchy.

You'll then be able to listen in from your own device through a web browser, like Google Chrome or Safari when you arrive. Our signs and staff will show you how.

Listen to example audio tour clips:

View a map of our locations to have starred in film and TV. Download Historic Scotland on Screen [PDF, 679.37KB]

What to see and do

  • Picture the cathedral-like great hall full of Albany’s guests enjoying his ‘belly cheer’
  • Step into the kitchen and servery to imagine how great banquets were prepared
  • Admire the views from the battlements over the River Teith and towards the Menteith Hills and Ben Lomond
  • Take our fun fact-finding quiz while exploring the castle.
  • Make sure you don't miss the castle grounds, which include a woodland walk, the site of a Roman fort and new pedestrian bridge. A visit to the castle isn't complete without a trip into the village of Doune!

Opening times

1 Apr to 30 Sept:
Daily, 9.30 to last entry at 4.45pm (closes 5.30pm)

1 Oct to 31 Mar:
Daily, 10am to last entry at 3.15pm (closes 4pm)

There is restricted parking at the castle, and we advise parking in the village car parks where possible. For more information please view the 'Getting here' tab.

Historic Scotland

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