Urquhart Castle

Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland's most visited historic sites, a ruined fortress on the shores of Loch Ness with wide views over the water and a history stretching back more than 1,000 years. It's also the castle most closely linked to the Loch Ness Monster stories.

There's been a stronghold at Urquhart since at least the 13th century, and it played a real part in the Wars of Scottish Independence. It was largely blown up in 1692 to keep it out of Jacobite hands, and has stood as a ruin ever since.

Give yourself one to two hours for the visitor centre, the ruins and the views over the loch. The site is run by Historic Environment Scotland and there's an entrance fee.

It's a fine visit. The ruined fortress makes the most of its position above Loch Ness, the 1,000-year history is genuinely rich, and the visitor centre is well done. Entry is around £14 per adult through Historic Environment Scotland.