Dumbarton Castle

Dumbarton Castle is closed while we carry out some repairs after the recent storm.

Visit a stronghold that stood at the heart of an ancient kingdom covering the area now known as Strathclyde.

Enter the Governor’s House and explore the Rock of Ages exhibition, which features a fascinating collection of historic artefacts discovered at the castle. Highlights include a 1,000-year-old Viking sword pommel, medieval coins, and a replica of an embroidery panel created by Mary, Queen of Scots

Conquer more than 500 steps to stand atop one of Scotland’s greatest strongholds - Dumbarton Castle.

The iconic Rock of the Clyde has heritage as breath-taking as its views over the Clyde, Loch Lomond and Argyll.

Dumbarton was a centre of power in what later became the Kingdom of Strathclyde. It was later sacked by Vikings. The castle became a cornerstone of medieval royal power and latterly served as a military base and prison.

You can explore its many fortifications with our interactive family trail.

Opening hours:
We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry.

1 Apr to 30 Sept:
Daily, 9.30am to last entry at 4.15pm (closes 5pm)

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

Price: as of 1st April 2025
Adult (16-64yrs) £8.50
Concession (65yrs+ and unemployed) £6.50
Child (7-15yrs) £5.00
Family (1 adult, 2 children) £16.50
Family (2 adults, 2 children) £24.50
Family (2 adults, 3 children) £29.00

Free for Historic Scotland members

*There are 547 steps throughout the castle making the property unsuitable for visitors using wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

Very occasionally a property has to close at short notice due to adverse weather conditions or other reasons outwith our control. Please check our closure page for any unexpected site closures historicenvironment.scot/closures You can also follow closure tweets from @welovehistory using #hsclosure. Alternatively please call the site before setting off to check they are open.