Access

Special arrangements are currently in place at Huntly Castle, to comply with Scottish Government guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic. These arrangements are detailed below, and will be regularly updated. Last updated: 28 July 2020.

Although things may be a little different, we hope that you will have an enjoyable visit and will be greeted with a warm and friendly smile by staff.

Safety measures:

Our staff have been trained in hygiene and physical distancing and have been provided with the necessary PPE
Signage is on site to guide visitors, including one way systems and marked areas that are currently closed to visitors
We have introduced enhanced cleaning measures, including our toilet facilities, to make visitors feel comfortable while visiting
In line with Scottish Government legislation and guidance, face coverings are now mandatory if you are visiting any indoor/enclosed spaces at our sites including retail and catering areas (subject to some exceptions)

Watch our video on what to expect when you visit our sites

Carers tickets

In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry and as advised by Capability Scotland, visitors with disabilities are treated on an equal basis with all other visitors and entry is charged at the appropriate admission category rate - Adult/Concession/Child. Proof of disability is not required.

We offer free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. To book a free carer ticket, please email ticketing@hes.scot and quote your order number.

Parking

The level tarmac car park next to the site entrance has accessible bays. A larger car park is across the road opposite the visitor centre.

Approach to site

The main entrance door has a ramp 8m long with a gradient of 1:12 leading up to it. The ticket office then has step-free access.

Dogs

Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and not left unattended at any time. Owners must pick up after their dogs.

Visitors' dogs are not permitted at Huntly Castle.

What will be open during your visit

All external spaces
First floor can be viewed from the second, one-way system in place
Car park available for those that have booked tickets
Shop
Accessible toilet

What will remain closed during your visit

The first floor (can be viewed from second floor)
Top of the tower
Viewing gallery
Basement and pit prison

Visiting the site

Visitors will follow a one-way route through the castle, and access to some spaces may be limited. Face coverings should be worn in internal spaces. Visitors can explore the grounds freely.

The outer buildings are all at ground level, though there are some steps, ramps, gravel and cobble surfaces
The main door has a metal handrail, and opens onto stairs leading to the kitchen. The basement and pit prison will not be open at this time
There are 13 large wide steps, with metal handrail, from the main castle entrance to the ground floor
26 stone steps with metal handrail lead to the first floor; and 33 wooden steps with a handrail lead to the second floor. The first floor will not be open to the public, but these spaces can be viewed from above, looking down from the second floor
The top of the tower is not be accessible